Nanjing 3-Day Tour: Discover Nanjing’s Must-See Highlights

Summary

Day 1 Nanjing: Nanjing Massacre Memorial Hall, Ming Xiaoling Mausoleum, Presidential Palace, Confucius Temple
Day 2 Nanjing: Niushou Mountain, Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum, Linggu Temple
Day 3 Nanjing: Nanjing Ming City Wall, Zhonghua Gate, Purple Mountain Observatory, Xinjiekou

Day 1 Nanjing

Upon your arrival in Nanjing, your guide and driver will be waiting for you at the hotel lobby or the exit of Nanjing High-Speed Railway Station, holding a sign that reads 'Your Way Holiday.' Your 3-day Nanjing tour will begin from there.

You will begin your tour at the Nanjing Massacre Memorial Hall, a solemn site dedicated to honoring the memory of the victims of the 1937 Nanjing Massacre. Located in the heart of Nanjing, this memorial stands as a powerful symbol of the immense tragedy that unfolded during the Japanese invasion. The hall is divided into several exhibition areas, each filled with photographs, personal testimonies, and historical artifacts that vividly capture the suffering of the innocent civilians and soldiers who perished. One of the most moving sections is the Hall of Silence, where visitors can reflect on the profound loss and pay their respects. As you explore the exhibits, your guide will provide in-depth historical context and share poignant stories, helping you understand the broader impact of this atrocity on both China and the world. The visit offers a deep, reflective experience, paying tribute to those lost, while also emphasizing the importance of peace, remembrance, and the resilience of the Chinese people in the face of such unimaginable tragedy.

Next, you will visit the Ming Xiaoling Mausoleum, the final resting place of Emperor Zhu Yuanzhang, the first emperor of the Ming Dynasty, and his empress, Liu. This mausoleum is one of the most historically significant cultural sites in Nanjing. Located at the foot of the scenic Purple Mountain, the mausoleum is surrounded by lush forests and ancient architecture. Its design blends traditional Chinese imperial palace styles with elements of landscape gardening, reflecting the grandeur and dignity of the ancient Chinese emperors. As you walk along the magnificent Sacred Way, flanked by imposing stone statues of animals and historical figures, you will feel the symbolic display of imperial authority and wisdom. Inside the mausoleum, the majestic burial chamber and intricately carved stone tablets tell the story of Zhu Yuanzhang's remarkable achievements and historical significance. Your guide will provide detailed explanations about the history and architectural features of the site, offering you a deeper understanding of this important cultural heritage and allowing you to appreciate the glory and solemnity of Ming Dynasty history.

After exploring the historical sites of Nanjing, it will be time to enjoy a delicious lunch. Nanjing is famous for its rich culinary heritage, and you will have the opportunity to taste some of the city's signature dishes. A popular choice is Nanjing's famous salted duck, known for its tender meat and fragrant flavors, often paired with steamed buns and pickled vegetables. You can also savor other local specialties, such as Nanjing-style dumplings, hot and sour soup, and the renowned duck blood soup. During lunch, you'll experience the flavors of traditional Nanjing cuisine, which blends local ingredients with ancient recipes passed down through generations. Your guide will introduce the unique flavors and ingredients used in these dishes, making it a memorable culinary experience that complements the cultural richness of the city.

After lunch, you will visit the Presidential Palace, an iconic site that has played a significant role in Chinese history. Once the official residence of the President of the Republic of China, this grand complex now serves as a museum showcasing Nanjing's historical and political significance. The Presidential Palace is a blend of traditional Chinese and Western architectural styles, reflecting the fusion of cultures during the late Qing Dynasty and early Republic period. As you stroll through the expansive grounds, you’ll encounter well-preserved buildings, including the main presidential office, the reception hall, and the former imperial gardens, which provide a serene contrast to the historical events that took place here. Your guide will provide insights into the history of the palace, explaining its role during the tumultuous period of the Republic, its significance in modern Chinese history, and its importance in shaping the political landscape of China. The site offers a fascinating glimpse into the political and cultural shifts that influenced the country in the early 20th century.

Finally, we will head to the Confucius Temple, a historic and cultural landmark located along the banks of the Qinhuai River. The temple is dedicated to Confucius, the great philosopher and educator whose teachings have profoundly influenced Chinese culture, education, and society for centuries. The architecture of the temple is elegant, blending traditional Chinese elements, with grand halls, intricate carvings, and tranquil courtyards creating a serene and beautiful setting. Inside the temple, you will find statues of Confucius and his disciples, as well as inscriptions of his teachings, which continue to inspire people in China today and shape the moral values of society. The surrounding Fuzimiao District is a vibrant cultural center, filled with traditional shops, markets, and street food vendors, offering a lively atmosphere where visitors can experience local life. Your guide will provide a detailed explanation of Confucianism, its philosophical principles, and its lasting impact on Chinese education, ethics, and governance, offering you not only a journey through history but also a deeper understanding of Chinese philosophy, culture, and traditions.

After finished, our tour guide will take you back to your hotel.

Day 2 Nanjing

In the morning, our tour guide will pick you up at your hotel lobby, and your tour will begin with a visit to Niushou Mountain (Ox Mountain), one of the most renowned cultural and scenic spots in Nanjing. Niushou Mountain is celebrated for its rich history, breathtaking natural beauty, and deep connection to Buddhist culture. The mountain is home to the Niushou Mountain Cultural Park and the impressive Niushou Mountain Buddhist Complex, which together create a serene environment filled with temples, statues, and traditional architecture that evoke a sense of peace and tranquility. The highlight of the visit is the grand Niushou Mountain Buddha, a massive statue that symbolizes spiritual enlightenment, standing proudly as a symbol of faith and devotion. From the top of the mountain, you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of lush forests, peaceful valleys, and the surrounding landscape, offering a serene escape from the city. As you explore, your guide will provide fascinating insights into the history and cultural significance of Niushou Mountain, sharing stories of its Buddhist heritage, its role in Chinese spiritual life, and the enduring importance of the site, ensuring a truly immersive and enriching experience.

Later, we will move on to visit the Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum (Zhongshan Ling), one of the most iconic landmarks in Nanjing. Located on the scenic Purple Mountain, the mausoleum is a tribute to Dr. Sun Yat-sen, the founding father of the Republic of China. The Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum is a National Cultural Heritage site and a popular tourist destination, recognized for its profound historical and cultural significance. The mausoleum combines elements of both Chinese and Western architectural styles, reflecting Dr. Sun Yat-sen’s vision of a modern, democratic China. As you walk through the grand gates and ascend the impressive stairs leading to the main structure, you’ll pass through beautiful pavilions and gardens, creating a peaceful and solemn atmosphere. The highlight is the majestic mausoleum hall, where Dr. Sun Yat-sen is laid to rest. From the top, visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding area, including the lush landscapes of Purple Mountain. Your guide will share interesting stories and historical insights about Dr. Sun Yat-sen’s life and his contributions to Chinese history, offering a deeper understanding of the country’s revolutionary past.

Your final stop for today is Linggu Temple, a serene and historically significant site located on the beautiful Purple Mountain. Linggu Temple, also known as the Linggu Si, is a Buddhist temple with a long history dating back to the Eastern Jin Dynasty. The temple is surrounded by lush forests and is known for its peaceful atmosphere, making it a perfect spot for reflection and relaxation. The temple features impressive architecture, including ancient halls, intricate carvings, and beautiful statues. One of the most notable structures is the Linggu Pagoda, a tall, elegant tower that offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding area. The temple complex is also home to the Linggu Temple Memorial Archway, a symbol of respect for Buddhist traditions. As you explore the temple, your guide will provide fascinating insights into its history, Buddhist culture, and its role in Chinese spirituality. You will also learn about the significance of Linggu Temple in the broader context of Nanjing’s religious heritage. It is a wonderful place to experience both the tranquility of nature and the depth of Chinese spiritual history.

After your tour ends, drive you back to your hotel.

Day 3 Nanjing

After breakfast, continue your Nanjing tour to the Nanjing Ming City Wall. The Nanjing Ming City Wall is one of the most important historical and architectural landmarks in China. As a key relic of the Ming Dynasty, the wall stretches for over 35 kilometers and once served as a formidable defense system for the ancient capital. It is not only the longest city wall in China but also one of the best-preserved and most grandiose examples of ancient Chinese military architecture. Built during the early Ming Dynasty (1368-1644), the wall is constructed from large bricks that were carefully placed using an advanced mortar mixture made of lime, sticky rice juice, and tung oil, which helped make the wall incredibly sturdy. Remarkably, each brick was carefully marked with the names of the workers who crafted it, a testament to the meticulous effort that went into its construction. As you walk along the wall, you’ll be able to observe the intricate design and structure, which were built to withstand attacks and protect the city. Your guide will provide fascinating insights into the history, construction, and strategic importance of the wall, offering a deeper understanding of Nanjing’s military and architectural heritage.

Later, move on to Zhonghua Gate, also known as the Zhonghua Men, one of the most significant landmarks in Nanjing. Zhonghua Gate is a magnificent example of ancient Chinese military architecture and holds great cultural and historical importance. As the largest castle-style city gate in China, it is part of the complex defensive system of the Nanjing City Wall. Built during the Ming Dynasty, this remarkable gate features a unique structure with multiple layers and intricate design. Zhonghua Gate is not only famous for its imposing scale but also for its defensive capabilities, with elaborate passageways, underground chambers, and watchtowers that once served to protect the city from invaders. The gate is constructed using large bricks that were specially made with a mortar mixture of lime, sticky rice juice, and tung oil, which contributed to the wall’s strength and durability. Each brick bears the marks of the craftsmen who made them, a testament to the craftsmanship and attention to detail. Your guide will provide fascinating insights into the history and significance of Zhonghua Gate, explaining how it once played a crucial role in protecting Nanjing and how it remains a symbol of the city’s rich heritage.

Continue your tour to the Purple Mountain Observatory (Zijinshan Astronomical Observatory), one of the oldest and most significant observatories in China. Located on the scenic Purple Mountain, the observatory was established in 1934 and has played a crucial role in the development of Chinese astronomy. The site is home to a range of historic telescopes and instruments, many of which were once at the forefront of astronomical research. The observatory’s stunning location offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape, making it a serene and peaceful place for both scientific exploration and relaxation. The complex includes a mix of older observatory towers and modern facilities, with exhibitions showcasing rare instruments, celestial maps, and scientific achievements made over the years. It is a place where history, science, and nature come together. Your guide will provide fascinating insights into the observatory’s history, key discoveries, and its ongoing contributions to the field of astronomy, offering a deeply enriching experience.

Lastly, we will head to Xinjiekou, the vibrant commercial and cultural heart of Nanjing. Often referred to as the city's downtown area, Xinjiekou is a bustling hub that offers a mix of modern shopping malls, department stores, entertainment centers, and a wide variety of dining options. Here, you can find everything from international luxury brands to local boutiques, making it an excellent place for shopping, dining, and leisure. The area is also home to a number of historical sites and landmarks, including ancient temples and traditional Chinese architecture, which provide a striking contrast to the modern developments around them. This unique blend of the old and new creates an exciting atmosphere where history meets contemporary culture. As you stroll through the area, you’ll experience the lively energy, with both locals and tourists enjoying the various attractions, shopping, and bustling streets. Your guide will provide fascinating insights into Xinjiekou’s evolution from a historic district into the commercial powerhouse it is today, explaining its significance in Nanjing’s history and its role as the heart of the city’s vibrant urban life.

After the tour ends, drive you to your hotel in Nanjing or Nanjing train station. 

Price Per Person in US Dollars