Nanjing, an ancient capital with over 2,500 years of history, mixes Ming imperial relics, Republican-era landmarks, poetic Jiangnan waterfronts and solemn historical memorial sites. Below are its unmissable spots:
1. Zhongshan Scenic Area (Purple Mountain)
This mountain park holds Nanjing’s core historic landmarks, a one-day destination for history and nature lovers.
Dr. Sun Yat-sen’s Mausoleum
The resting place of Sun Yat-sen, the father of modern China. Climb 392 stone steps for a full city view. Free entry (reservation required), closed every Monday.
Ming Xiaoling Mausoleum (UNESCO World Heritage)
Tomb of Zhu Yuanzhang, the first emperor of the Ming Dynasty. The 600-year-old sacred stone elephant road is famous for golden ginkgoes and red maples in autumn. Ticket around ¥70.
Meiling Palace
A graceful Republican villa. A bird’s-eye view reveals plane trees forming a giant pearl necklace around the building; great for retro photos.
Open-Air Music Platform
A quiet lawn with flocks of white pigeons, perfect for relaxing between scenic spots.
2. Confucius Temple & Qinhuai River
Nanjing’s iconic night-view landmark, the soul of Jiangnan water town charm.
The pedestrian block is free to wander, lined with red lanterns, ancient wooden shops and snack stalls.
Take an evening painted boat cruise (¥80–100) to glide past lit waterfront buildings.
Side highlights: Jiangnan Imperial Examination Hall (ancient imperial exam museum) and Wuyi Lane, the former residence of noble ancient clans.
3. Nanjing Museum
One of China’s top three national museums, housing more than 430,000 precious relics across dynasties.
Free admission with advance reservation; closed Mondays.
Don’t miss the Republic of China Gallery: a full retro old street ideal for cheongsam photos, plus exquisite Yunjin brocade and royal burial artifacts.
4. Presidential Palace
The epitome of modern Chinese history, blending classical Chinese courtyards and Western villas.
It served as the Qing governor’s office, the Taiping Heavenly Kingdom palace and the Republic of China’s central government. Ticket ¥35, allow 2–3 hours for a full tour.
5. Memorial Hall of the Victims in Nanjing Massacre
A solemn, essential historical site for remembering history.
Free entry with reservation; please keep quiet and show full respect during your visit. It records the tragedy of the 1937 Nanjing Massacre with documents, artifacts and exhibitions.
6. Ancient City Wall & Zhonghua Gate
The world’s largest surviving brick city wall from the Ming Dynasty.
Zhonghua Gate is its grandest gate tower, with hidden troop caves inside. Walk the wall at sunset for panoramic views of the old city and Qinhuai River.
7. Xuanwu Lake & Jiming Temple
Xuanwu Lake: A huge free urban lake right beside the ancient city wall, with green islands and gentle lake breezes.
Jiming Temple: A quiet ancient Buddhist temple, famous for sea of cherry blossoms every spring, overlooking Xuanwu Lake.
8. Laomendong Historic District
Well-restored Ming-Qing alleyways with grey tiles and horse-head walls. Less crowded than Confucius Temple, filled with teahouses, boutiques and authentic local snacks, ideal for daytime slow wandering.
Bonus Religious Highlight: Niushou Mountain
Home to a giant underground Buddha palace preserving a Buddha’s skull relic. Spectacular golden Buddhist architecture, suitable for visitors interested in Buddhist culture.
Quick Travel Tips
All free major sites (Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum, Nanjing Museum, Massacre Memorial) need online advance reservations.
Purple Mountain covers a wide area; rent an e-bike or take the scenic shuttle bus to save energy.
Visit Qinhuai River after sunset for the most stunning lantern and river scenery