Nanjing Travel Guide 2026: Top Attractions, Local Food & Travel Tips | Trip.com

Nanjing was called Jinling in ancient times. This settlement was an ancient capital thousands of years ago throughout several dynasties and kingdoms, and the traces of history can be found here wherever you go.

When in Nanjing, climbing atop Taicheng, a five-minute walk on top of the Nanjing Ming Dynasty City Wall, on the south bank of Xuanwu Lake. This city wall, with 600 years of history, looks east to the verdure of Zhongshan Mountain, while the blue waters of the Xuanwu Lake ripple in your gaze and the bells of the ancient Jiming Temple resound in the distance. Stroll through the beautiful Yihe Mansions area, get a cup of coffee in the renowned 1912 district, or walk beneath the colorful canopies of hundred-year-old trees in the warm sun, and history will unfold before you moment by moment. Once night falls, you can get aboard a pleasure boat and travel by night along the Qinhuai River, where enjoying the ancient beauty on the riverbanks by streetlamp is even more enchanting. All the while you can experience the beautiful setting of the poem “A Mooring on the River Qin Huai”.

1. Journey Through Ancient Nanjing's Icons

Explore the Nanjing City Wall, Nanjing Presidential Palace, and The Memorial Hall of the Victims in the Nanjing Massacre by Japanese Invaders to experience the city's rich history and culture. 

2. Seek Serenity at Xuanwu Lake and Jiming Temple

Enjoy a peaceful retreat at Xuanwu Lake with a boat ride or stroll, and visit the tranquil Jiming Temple, a key Buddhist site. 

3. Discover the Confucius Temple Area

Stroll through the Confucius Temple area, filled with traditional architecture, shops, and eateries, and learn about Confucian culture. Capture the enchanting night views of the Qinhuai River with illuminated bridges and riverside buildings.

4. Explore Museums and Appreciate National Treasures

Delve into China's history and culture at the Nanjing Museum, which houses a vast collection of artifacts and artworks. Experience the intricate craftsmanship of Yunjin Brocade weaving at the Nanjing Yunjin Museum.

5. Visit the Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum

Pay homage to the founding father of modern China at the Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum on Purple Mountain. 

6. Savor the Flavors of Nanjing Cuisine

Indulge in Nanjing's cuisine with specialties like Nanjing Salted Duck and duck blood soup. 

7. Cruise the Qinhuai River for a Unique Perspective

Enjoy a scenic cruise along the Qinhuai River, admiring illuminated bridges, traditional architecture, and vibrant city life. 

8. Explore the Ming Tomb Scenic Area

Visit the Ming Tomb Scenic Area, the tomb of the Hongwu Emperor, and explore its impressive architecture and serene surroundings. 

Nanjing is a city steeped in cultural and historical significance, offering a diverse array of attractions from the serene Niushou Mountain Cultural Tourism Zone and the bustling Confucius Temple Qinhuai River Scenery Belt to the treasure-filled Nanjing Museum, the majestic Xiaoling Mausoleum of the Ming Dynasty, and the picturesque Zhongshan Mountain National Park, each site presenting a unique aspect of China's rich heritage.

Niushou Mountain Cultural Tourism Zone in Nanjing is a vibrant blend of natural beauty and profound Buddhist culture. The area is renowned for its picturesque scenery, especially during spring when it is adorned with cherry blossoms, symbolizing the ephemeral nature of life and encouraging visitors to cherish every moment. The zone is home to the Usnisa Palace, a significant site that is claimed to enshrine the world's only Buddha's Parietal Relic, making it a sacred place for Buddhists and an intriguing destination for those interested in religious and cultural exploration.

The architecture of the Usnisa Palace is particularly noteworthy; with its large and small domes representing the boundless blessings and wisdom of Buddha, offering visitors a unique and immersive experience in Buddhist culture. Whether you are seeking spiritual enrichment or simply wish to enjoy the tranquil mountain landscape, Niushou Mountain Cultural Tourism Zone provides a serene and culturally rich getaway.

The Confucius Temple Qinhuai River Scenery Belt in Nanjing, known as Fuzimiao, is a cultural and historical hub that has been a center of activity since its establishment in 1034. This scenic belt is a blend of historic sites, gardens, and folk culture, offering visitors a rich tapestry of experiences. The area is renowned for its architectural styles from the Ming and Qing dynasties and serves as a vibrant commercial center. 

Visitors can enjoy a boat cruise on the Qinhuai River to witness the beauty of the scenic belt and the main attraction, the Confucius Temple. The river itself is a symbol of Nanjing's culture and has been an important cultural center since ancient times. The scenic belt is also known for hosting various festivals, including the Qinhuai International Lantern Festival.

Nanjing Museum, located in the capital of Jiangsu Province, is one of China's largest and most prestigious museums, boasting a collection of over 400,000 items, including a vast array of Ming and Qing imperial porcelain. Established in 1933, the museum is a testament to China's rich historical and cultural heritage, with its collections ranging from the Paleolithic Age to the present.

Visitors can immerse themselves in the museum's diverse exhibitions, which include historical items, porcelains, bronzes, potteries, brocades, and lacquer wares, with some pieces recognized as national treasures. The museum's architecture is a blend of Chinese and Western styles, designed by Xu Jingzhi and modified by the renowned architect Liang Sicheng in the 1930s.

For an interactive experience, the Digital Interactive Hall offers engaging activities, including a digitally animated Chinese art masterpiece. The Nanjing Museum is not only a treasure trove for history and art enthusiasts but also serves as an educational base, making it a "must-see" attraction for those fascinated by China's long and cultured history.

Xiaoling Mausoleum of the Ming Dynasty in Nanjing, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a testament to the grandeur of the Ming Dynasty and the resting place of its founder, Emperor Zhu Yuanzhang, and his Empress Ma. Renowned for its unique design and historical significance, the mausoleum features a Sacred Way lined with stone animals, symbolizing the emperor's power and the dynasty's vast territory.

Visitors can explore the intricate architecture and pay respects to the emperor's legacy, while the changing directions of the Sacred Way offer a unique and unprecedented experience in Chinese history.

Zhongshan Mountain National Park in Nanjing, also known as Purple Mountain, is a treasure trove of historical and cultural heritage, renowned for its scenic beauty and significant monuments. The park is home to the revered Dr. Sun Yat-sen's Mausoleum, a masterpiece of architectural history, where visitors can ascend 392 steps to pay homage to the "Father of Modern China".

The Ming Xiaoling Mausoleum, another key attraction, showcases the grandeur of imperial architecture and stone carving art, inviting guests to explore its majestic gates and courtyards.

Photography enthusiasts will find the park a paradise, especially during autumn when the foliage transforms into a vibrant palette of colors, making spots like the Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum and Linggu Temple ideal for capturing stunning images. The Plum Blossom Hill bursts into a sea of pink and white during the annual Plum Blossom Festival, offering a spectacular display of over 400 species of plum blossoms.

Visitors can immerse themselves in the tranquility of the Linggu Temple, a historic Buddhist site, and marvel at the Beamless Hall's unique architecture. With more than 200 scenic spots, Zhongshan Mountain National Park is a must-visit destination for those seeking to experience the harmonious blend of natural beauty and rich cultural history.

Nanjing's cuisine is renowned for its unique local characteristics and profound cultural heritage, from the fresh and smooth Duck Blood and Vermicelli Soup, the fragrant and juicy Beef Potstickers, the tender Salted Duck, the thin-skinned and broth-filled Nanjing Soup Dumplings to the golden-colored Plum Blossom Cakes, each dish is a heritage and innovation of traditional craftsmanship, leaving an endless aftertaste.

Nanjing Duck Blood and Vermicelli Soup is a classic representative of Jinling cuisine, made with duck blood, duck intestines, duck liver, and other ingredients added to duck broth and vermicelli, known for its mild taste, fresh fragrance, and smoothness. This delicacy is extremely popular in Nanjing and has spread throughout the country, becoming a landmark snack of Nanjing. The soup comes in clear and white varieties, each with its own flavor. You can add chili oil, coriander, and other seasonings according to personal taste, to enjoy the steaming, tender, and refreshing wonderful flavor.

Beef Potstickers are a traditional snack of Nanjing, belonging to Jinling cuisine and Jinling snacks, and are one of the 'Eight Delicacies of Qinhuai'. This snack is tender on the top and crispy on the bottom, with a delicious beef filling that has a unique flavor. The key to making Beef Potstickers is to use Sichuan pepper water to season the beef filling, which can remove the gamey taste and enhance the freshness, making the taste of the potstickers even better.

Nanjing Salted Duck is a traditional famous dish of Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, known for its white skin, tender meat, richness without being greasy, and delicious flavor. The dish's production process is unique, including steps such as frying salt, marinating, drying, and boiling. The Salted Duck made during the eighth lunar month when osmanthus flowers bloom is the most famous, hence also known as 'Osmanthus Duck'. Salted Duck is not only a delicacy but also has certain dietary therapy effects, suitable for all kinds of people, especially beneficial for patients with cardiovascular diseases.

Nanjing Soup Dumplings are famous for their thin skin, abundant broth, and delicious fillings. They are a traditional specialty of Nanjing. The making of soup dumplings is exquisite, using high-quality meat fillings, with thin yet strong skins, and after steaming, they are filled with broth. Brands such as Jiming Soup Dumplings and Yin's Soup Dumplings are representative. When eating, be careful, gently bite off a corner to sip the broth, and then enjoy the deliciousness of the meat filling, which is an indispensable part of Nanjing people's breakfast.

Plum Blossom Cakes are a traditional specialty snack of Nanjing, originating from the Ming Dynasty, named for their shape resembling plum blossoms, and highly praised by Emperor Qianlong during his visit to the south of the Yangtze River. This pastry has a crispy crust and a full filling, sweet but not greasy, with a golden color, soft and delicious, loved by both the young and old. To make Plum Blossom Cakes, the batter is poured into a preheated mold, filled with red bean paste or other fillings, sprinkled with red and green melon shreds, and baked over medium heat until cooked. Each Plum Blossom Cake is also decorated with red dates and small glutinous rice balls on top.

Nanjing, the historic capital of Jiangsu Province, is a well-connected transportation hub, accessible by air, rail, bus, or road from international and domestic locations.

By Air

Nanjing Lukou International Airport (NKG): The primary gateway, located 36 km (22 miles) southeast of downtown. Serves international and domestic routes.

To City Center from NKG: Metro Line S1 (35–40 minutes, ¥8-10) connects to downtown via Nanjing South Station. Airport shuttles (50 minutes, ¥25) or taxis (¥100–150, depending on traffic) are also available.

By Train

Nanjing South Railway Station: The central hub for high-speed trains (G-series), connecting to Shanghai (1–2 hours), Beijing (3.5–5 hours), Hangzhou (1–1.5 hours), and Guangzhou (7–8 hours). 

Nanjing Railway Station: Handles slower trains and some high-speed services. 

Both stations are linked to Nanjing’s metro system.

By Bus

Key Bus Stations: Nanjing Central Bus Station (Zhongyangmen) and Nanjing South Bus Station connect to regional destinations.

By Road

Driving or private transport is possible via expressways like the G2 (to Shanghai) or G36 (to Hangzhou). Road travel is less recommended for international visitors due to complex driving regulations and language barriers.

Metro:

Nanjing Metro, with 14 lines, is a convenient system that covers all major attractions. 

Operates 6:00 AM–11:00 PM. 

Fares: ¥2–12 based on distance; use single-ride tickets, Nanjing Metro card, or mobile payments (WeChat/Alipay). 

Buses:

An extensive network complements the metro system and extends to suburban areas, such as Qixia Mountain. 

Fares: ¥1–4, payable via cash (exact change), Nanjing Metro card, or mobile payments. No English signage; use Baidu maps or Amap to plan your route.

Taxis and Ride-Hailing: Taxis are plentiful; DiDi offers ride-hailing with an English interface. 

Bicycles: Bike-sharing (Meituan, HelloBike) is ideal for areas like Xinjiekou or the Qinhuai River. 

Cost: ~¥1–2 per 30 minutes via mobile apps.  

Nanjing is a city that is rich in cultural heritage and offers a diverse range of accommodation options for visitors. From bustling commercial centers to serene lakeside areas, the city's hotels are spread across several key regions, each with its own unique charm and attractions. Whether you're looking for a luxurious stay, a historical experience, or convenient access to sporting events, Nanjing's accommodation areas cater to all preferences and interests.

Vibrant Shopping Hub: Xinjiekou, Nanjing's commercial heart, offers a multitude of shopping options, from upscale boutiques to traditional stalls. It's often likened to renowned districts such as Tokyo or New York City.

Cultural Blend: The area provides not just shopping but cultural experiences too, with a mix of modern and ancient elements. Visitors can delve into local life and find artisanal goods near the Confucius Temple market.

Access and Accommodation: Xinjiekou boasts excellent public transport links, facilitating city exploration. Accommodations vary from budget to luxury, catering to all traveler needs.

Historical Ambiance: This area is steeped in history, with the Confucius Temple and the scenic Qinhuai River offering a glimpse into Nanjing's past. It's a place where tradition meets the vibrancy of street markets and local cuisine.

Leisure and Exploration: Visitors can enjoy leisurely boat rides on the Qinhuai River or explore the bustling night market for an after-dinner walk. Accommodation here allows for easy access to these cultural experiences and the charm of old Nanjing.

Diverse Stays: From boutique hotels to cultural-themed accommodations, the region provides a diverse range of options that reflect the area's rich heritage and offer personalized services.

Historical Significance: The Presidential Palace is not just an accommodation area but a significant historical site that once served as the center of political power in China. It is now a museum, offering visitors a chance to delve into modern Chinese history.

Convenient Location: Located in the Xuanwu District, the area around the Presidential Palace is easily accessible by metro and bus, making it a convenient base for exploring Nanjing's attractions.

Accommodation Variety: The vicinity of the Presidential Palace offers a variety of hotels, from mid-range to luxury, providing guests with comfortable stays and a touch of history.

The best time to visit Nanjing is during the spring, from March to May, and the autumn, from September to November.

In spring, the weather is mild, and the city becomes a sea of flowers, with plum blossoms in March and cherry blossoms in April, making it ideal for outdoor activities. 

Autumn offers cool temperatures, perfect for hiking and enjoying the red autumnal leaves at local attractions like Mount Qixia and the Xiaoling Mausoleum of the Ming Dynasty.

These seasons provide the most comfortable climate and picturesque natural beauty, avoiding the intense heat of summer and the cold, humid winter.

Mandarin Chinese is the official language.

English signage is widespread in tourist areas, but English is not widely spoken.

WeChat: China’s all-in-one app for messaging, social media, and digital payments. English interface available.

Alipay: A leading payment app for cashless transactions at restaurants, shops, and public transport. Its “Transport” feature supports metro and taxi payments. English version available.

DiDi: China’s top ride-hailing app, offering taxi and private car services with an English interface. Integrates with Alipay or WeChat for seamless payments.

Baidu Maps: The most reliable navigation app in China, offering detailed maps, real-time traffic, and transit routes for metro and buses. Superior to Google Maps for local accuracy. Alternative: Amaps app.

Youdao Dictionary: A Chinese-English dictionary and translation app, perfect for communicating with non-English-speaking taxi drivers or reading menus. Includes offline OCR for scanning signs.

Staying connected in Nanjing is essential for navigation, payments, and communication, given China’s reliance on mobile apps and limited access to some Western services.

eSIMs: eSIMs are a convenient option for travelers, enabling instant activation without the need for a physical SIM card. Purchase online before your trip; activate upon arrival. Ensure your device supports eSIM.

Local SIM Cards: Local SIMs from providers like China Mobile, China Telecom, or China Unicom offer reliable 4G/5G coverage in Nanjing. Available at airports or official provider shops.

Present your passport at the time of purchase; airport staff can assist with setup. China Unicom often has better English support.

Wi-Fi: available in hotels, hostels, and some cafes (e.g., Starbucks) but less common in public spaces like parks or streets. Many Wi-Fi networks require a Chinese phone number for SMS verification.

The official currency is the Chinese Yuan (CNY, ¥), also known as Renminbi (RMB). Notes come in denominations of ¥1, ¥5, ¥10, ¥20, ¥50, and ¥100; coins are available in denominations of ¥0.1, ¥0.5, and ¥1.

Digital Payments:

Nanjing is essentially a cashless city, with mobile apps dominating transactions. WeChat Pay and Alipay are widely accepted. Link a foreign bank card (Visa/Mastercard) to WeChat or Alipay before arrival.

Cash:

Cash is rarely needed but can be useful for small vendors (e.g., street food stalls), single-ride tickets on public transportation, or in rural areas. Carry small denominations (¥1–20) for convenience.

Credit/Debit Cards:

Visa and Mastercard are accepted at major hotels, upscale restaurants, and some retailers in Nanjing, but less common at smaller venues. American Express is rarely accepted.

Notify your bank of travel plans to avoid card blocks.

ATMs and Cash Withdrawals: 

ATMs accepting foreign cards (Visa/Mastercard) are widely available at banks, airports, and shopping areas. Most offer English interfaces.

Look for PLUS (Visa) or Cirrus (Mastercard) logos. American Express is rarely accepted, except at select ATMs in airports or high-end hotels.

Fees: ¥10–15 per withdrawal (some banks waive for partners). Home bank fees: ~3% + $5 (check your issuer). Currency conversion fee: 1–3% (Visa/Mastercard rate).

Reliable Banks: Bank of China, ICBC, China Construction Bank, HSBC China.