Nanjing, capital of China’s eastern Jiangsu province, is roughly 300km up the Yangtze River from the city of Shanghai. It was the national capital during part of the Ming dynasty. Many monuments and landmarks remain, including Zhonghua Gate (Gate of China), a preserved 14th-century section of the massive wall that contained the old city’s southern entrance.

Top Attractions:

1. Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum: Visit the mausoleum of Dr. Sun Yat-sen, the founding father of the Republic of China. Located in the scenic Purple Mountain area, the mausoleum is an important historical and cultural landmark.
2. Nanjing City Wall: Explore the ancient city wall of Nanjing, one of the largest and best-preserved city walls in China. Walk or cycle along the wall to enjoy panoramic views of the city and surrounding landscapes.
3. Confucius Temple (Fuzi Miao): Wander through the Confucius Temple area, a historic district featuring traditional architecture, narrow alleys, and bustling markets. Visit the Confucius Temple itself and explore nearby attractions like Qinhuai River.
4. Xuanwu Lake: Relax and enjoy the natural beauty of Xuanwu Lake, a scenic spot in the heart of Nanjing. Take a leisurely stroll along the lake shore, rent a paddleboat, or visit nearby attractions like Jiming Temple.
5. Nanjing Massacre Memorial Hall: Pay homage to the victims of the Nanjing Massacre at the Nanjing Massacre Memorial Hall. Learn about this tragic event through exhibits, artifacts, and educational displays.
6. Purple Mountain (Zijin Shan): Explore Purple Mountain, a scenic area with lush forests, historic sites, and cultural landmarks. Visit attractions such as Linggu Temple, Dr. Sun Yat-sen's Mausoleum, and the Ming Xiaoling Mausoleum.

Top Things to Do:

1. Climb to the Top of Zifeng Tower: Ascend to the observation deck of Zifeng Tower, one of Nanjing's tallest skyscrapers, for panoramic views of the city skyline and surrounding area.
2. Visit the Presidential Palace: Explore the Nanjing Presidential Palace, a former residence of Sun Yat-sen and other Chinese leaders. Learn about the history of modern China and explore the gardens, halls, and exhibition halls.
3. Walk Along Qinhuai River: Take a scenic stroll along the banks of the Qinhuai River, a historic waterway lined with ancient buildings, stone bridges, and traditional tea houses. Experience the lively atmosphere of the riverside promenade.
4. Sample Local Cuisine: Indulge in Nanjing's delicious cuisine, which includes specialties like Nanjing salted duck, Jinling roast duck, and soup dumplings. Visit local restaurants, street food stalls, and night markets to savor the flavors of the region.
5. Explore Ancient Streets: Wander through the narrow lanes and historic streets of Nanjing's old quarters, such as Laomendong and Shizi Qiao. Discover traditional architecture, antique shops, and quaint tea houses hidden among the bustling streets.
6. Attend Cultural Performances: Experience traditional Chinese culture through performances of opera, music, dance, and martial arts. Attend shows at venues like the Jiangsu Centre for the Performing Arts or local theaters and cultural centers.