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Nanjing

Six dynasties capital where imperial grandeur meets modern China. Walk ancient city walls, explore the Forbidden City of the South, and understand China's complex journey through the centuries.

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Featured Tours in Nanjing

Handcrafted itineraries for every type of traveler

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3 Days History & Culture

Imperial Nanjing Journey

Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum, Ming Xiaoling Tomb, Presidential Palace, Ming City Wall

From $300
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2 Days History & Education

Memorial & Heritage Walk

Nanjing Massacre Memorial Hall, Yuhuatai, China Gate, Nanjing Museum

From $200
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2 Days Culture & Food

Qinhuai River Night Tour

Confucius Temple, Qinhuai River night cruise, Old Gate East, salted duck tasting

From $240
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Top Nanjing Experiences

What makes this city special

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Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum (中山陵)

Grand marble and granite monument to China's revolutionary father. The 392-step ascent offers panoramic views of Purple Mountain and the city. This is where China's modern journey began — a profound symbol of national identity.

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Ming Imperial History

Nanjing served as China's capital for the Ming Dynasty's early decades. Explore the Ming Xiaoling Tomb (UNESCO World Heritage), walk the 600-year-old city wall (longest in the world), and discover the "Little Beijing" imperial palace complex.

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Qinhuai River Culture

The lifeblood of old Nanjing — take an evening cruise past illuminated bridges and traditional architecture. The Confucius Temple area and Old Gate East district preserve the city's 2,500-year history as a cultural and commercial center.

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Republic Era Heritage

Nanjing was China's capital from 1912-1949. The Presidential Palace, Republican-era architecture, and memorial sites tell the complex story of China's transition from empire to modern nation-state.

Practical Information

Essential tips for your Nanjing visit

Best Time to Visit

  • Spring (March-May) & Autumn (September-November): Mild temperatures, comfortable for walking
  • March-April: Cherry blossoms and spring flowers at scenic sites
  • Summer: Hot and humid with occasional thunderstorms
  • Winter: Cold with occasional snow — fewer crowds, indoor museums

Getting There

  • Nanjing Lukou International Airport (NKG): 35km south, metro and shuttle connections
  • High-speed rail: Nanjing South Station (main), Nanjing Station — connects to Shanghai (1-1.5 hrs)
  • From Shanghai: High-speed train 1-1.5 hours, long-distance bus 3-4 hours
  • Metro: Extensive system with 10+ lines, English signage

Payments

  • Mobile payment essential (Alipay, WeChat Pay dominant)
  • Link foreign cards for easy payments
  • Credit cards accepted at hotels and larger restaurants
  • Cash still useful at traditional markets and street food

Safety

  • Very safe city with excellent tourist infrastructure
  • Museums and historical sites have English information
  • Be respectful at memorial sites — they are places of remembrance
  • Emergency: 110 (English operators available)

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about traveling in Nanjing

Nanjing is an excellent destination for international travelers. With well-developed tourism infrastructure, English signage at major attractions, and experienced local guides, it offers accessible exploration of Chinese culture and history. The city welcomes millions of international visitors annually, making it an ideal starting point for your China journey.

We recommend 2-3 days for the essential Nanjing experience. This gives you time to explore major attractions, savor local cuisine, and experience the city's unique culture. For deeper exploration or to include nearby attractions, consider 4-5 days. Our local guides can help customize your itinerary based on your interests and available time.

Yes, more easily than in many Chinese cities. In tourist areas, hotels, restaurants in popular neighborhoods, and major attractions, English is commonly understood. Transportation systems often have English signage, and translation apps work well. Learning a few basic Mandarin phrases is always appreciated and helpful in more local settings.

Nanjing offers distinctive regional cuisine that reflects its local culture and geography. From street food to fine dining, the city's food scene emphasizes fresh ingredients and unique flavors. Our tours include carefully selected restaurants where you'll taste authentic local dishes. Inform your guide of any dietary restrictions — they can recommend excellent vegetarian and other options.

Nanjing has excellent public transportation including metro systems, buses, and taxis. Ride-hailing apps like Didi work well and provide transparent pricing. For convenience, our tours include local transportation during tour hours. The city is also walkable in many areas, especially around major attractions. Your guide can recommend the best options for each destination.

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