A Three-Day Trip to Jinling: A Magical Journey Through History and Modernity

Nanjing, an ancient capital steeped in thousands of years of history and culture, is like a weighty historical tome, each page filled with stories. Here, ancient city walls stand in stunning contrast to modern skyscrapers, and traditional cuisine blends seamlessly with contemporary trends. If you only have three days to explore the charm of Nanjing, this guide is perfect for you! Day 1: Zhongshan Scenic Area, Exploring the Weight of History • Morning: Begin your journey at the Dr. Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum. The solemn and respectful mausoleum of Dr. Sun Yat-sen invites you to ascend the long staircase, reflecting on history and the legacy of this great man. Remember to book your free entry in advance through the official "Zhongshan Mausoleum" WeChat official account. • Noon: Savor authentic Nanjing cuisine at a restaurant near the mausoleum. Duck blood vermicelli soup is a must-try. Smooth vermicelli noodles soak in a rich duck broth, complemented by tender duck blood and intestines – each bite is pure delight. Don't miss the salted duck, with its firm texture and perfectly balanced salty flavor, leaving a lasting impression. • Afternoon: Head to the Music Stage, a photographer's paradise. Flocks of white doves circle the square, ready to flutter down and interact with you at the clap of your hands, creating picture-perfect moments. Afterward, visit the Ming Xiaoling Mausoleum. Stroll along the Sacred Way, admiring the lifelike stone animals lining the path, as if transported back to the Ming and Qing dynasties, experiencing the majesty and mystery of the imperial tombs. Tickets for the Ming Xiaoling Mausoleum cost around 70 yuan and can be purchased on-site or booked online in advance. • Evening: As night falls, venture to the Confucius Temple and Qinhuai Scenic Belt. Take a boat tour along the Qinhuai River, where the banks are ablaze with lights. Amidst the sounds of oars and the glow of lanterns, the prosperity of Jinling unfolds before your eyes. After disembarking, explore the Confucius Temple and indulge in various local snacks like plum blossom cakes and sugared taro pudding, treating your taste buds to a feast. Day 2: A Fusion of Culture and Art • Morning: Book your tickets in advance through the official Nanjing Museum mini-program and head there early for a visit. As one of China's three major museums, the Nanjing Museum boasts a rich and diverse collection. Artifacts in the History Hall narrate the historical changes of Jiangsu Province, while the Republic of China Hall recreates the streets of old Nanjing, instantly transporting you back to that era – a fantastic spot for taking photos. • Noon: Find a restaurant near the museum and try Nanjing's specialty, pidu noodles. The chewy noodles and crispy pidu (fried wheat gluten) are combined with various toppings, creating a satisfying and filling meal. • Afternoon: Visit Jiming Temple, known as the "First Temple of the Southern Dynasties." In spring, when the cherry blossoms are in full bloom, the temple transforms into a picturesque scene. The 10-yuan entrance fee includes three incense sticks, allowing you to make a wish. A short walk from Jiming Temple leads you to Xuanwu Lake, where you can enjoy a leisurely stroll along the lakeshore, taking in the scenic beauty and gentle breeze. • Evening: After dinner near Xuanwu Lake, consider enjoying Nanjing's night view, such as the light show at the Zifeng Tower, and experience the charm of the modern city. Day 3: Experiencing Republican Charm and Modern Prosperity • Morning: Visit the Presidential Palace, a significant landmark in modern Chinese history. Its unique blend of Chinese and Western architectural styles is captivating. Stepping inside, you can almost witness the turbulent history of that era unfold before your eyes. The entrance fee is 35 yuan, and renting an audio guide is recommended for a deeper understanding of the site's stories. • Noon: Dine at the Nanjing 1912 Block near the Presidential Palace. This area preserves the architectural style of the Republican period, creating a nostalgic atmosphere. The block offers a wide selection of restaurants and cafes, catering to various tastes. • Afternoon: Explore Xinjiekou, Nanjing's bustling commercial center. With numerous shopping malls, it's a paradise for shoppers. Indulge in retail therapy, discover trendy food spots, and embrace the vibrant energy of the city. Transportation Guide: Nanjing's public transportation system is highly efficient, with the subway reaching most attractions. Download the "My Nanjing" app to conveniently scan and pay for subway and bus rides. Taxis are also readily available, but traffic congestion can occur during rush hour, so plan your travel time accordingly. Accommodation Recommendations: The Xinjiekou area offers convenient transportation and a wide array of dining options. The area around Confucius Temple is ideal for those who enjoy exploring the nightlife and the Qinhuai Scenic Belt. Food Recommendations: In addition to the aforementioned duck blood vermicelli soup, salted duck, and pidu noodles, don't miss other local specialties like beef guotie (fried dumplings), sweet osmanthus-flavored taro pudding, and red bean tangyuan (glutinous rice balls). Ke Lane and Hongmiao Snack Street are excellent places to sample local cuisine, offering authentic Nanjing flavors at reasonable prices, unlike the often-overpriced options within the Confucius Temple scenic area. Nanjing, a city brimming with charm, offers a memorable experience even within a short three-day visit. Come and embark on your own Jinling adventure!