Nanjing Ming Dynasty Culture Explore Day Tour from Shanghai by train

Tour Itinerary

In the morning, you will be picked up by your Nanjing guide at Nanjing train station, you'll find a welcome signage "Your Way Holiday". One day Nanjing tour includes the following attractions or activities. 

First, we will head to the Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum, completed in 1929 and nestled at the foot of Nanjing’s Purple Mountain. It is a national symbol honoring the founding father of modern China. Designed by renowned architect Lu Yanzhi, the mausoleum reflects both traditional Chinese geomantic principles and modern architectural aesthetics. Dr. Sun Yat-sen, who led the revolution that overthrew the Qing Dynasty and laid the foundation for the Republic of China, is buried here. Visitors ascend 392 steps through a serene tree-lined path to reach the grand memorial hall, which features a marble structure topped with blue glazed tiles and a solemn seated statue of Dr. Sun. As your tour guide, I will share the powerful stories behind its construction, the symbolism of its design, and Dr. Sun’s enduring influence on China’s path to democracy, ensuring a meaningful and memorable experience.

For lunch, we will enjoy a delicious local meal at a well-reviewed Nanjing restaurant, offering a variety of Jiangsu-style dishes known for their refined flavors and beautiful presentation. Signature specialties may include Salted Duck — a famous Nanjing delicacy with tender meat and aromatic spices, Duck Blood Vermicelli Soup — a flavorful and comforting local favorite, and Lion’s Head Meatballs — soft, juicy meatballs stewed to perfection. Vegetarian options are also available upon request. This is a wonderful opportunity to take a break, relax, and savor the rich culinary heritage of the region before continuing our afternoon explorations.

Next, visit the Ming Xiaoling Mausoleum, the final resting place of the Hongwu Emperor, the founder of the Ming dynasty. Located at the southern foot of Purple Mountain, just east of Nanjing’s historic center, this mausoleum is renowned for its grandeur and the intriguing legend surrounding its construction. To prevent the tomb from being robbed, 13 identical funeral processions were sent from different city gates to confuse potential thieves and obscure the true location of the burial site. Construction began in 1381 during the Hongwu Emperor’s reign and was completed in 1405 under his son, the Yongle Emperor, with over 100,000 laborers involved. The mausoleum’s majestic design features ornate gates, impressive stone statues, and beautiful carvings, reflecting the power and wealth of the Ming dynasty. Your expert tour guide will share fascinating stories about the emperor’s life and reign, as well as the historical significance of the site, while ensuring you fully appreciate the beauty and intricacies of this magnificent monument.

After lunch, continue your tour to Zhonghua Gate, one of China’s most significant cultural relics and a true masterpiece of military architecture. Not only is it the largest castle-style city gate in the country, but it is also part of the world’s most intricate and complex fortress system. Built during the Ming dynasty, this gate is celebrated for its grand scale, elaborate design, and exceptional defensive features. The gate includes multiple layers of defense such as hidden chambers, watchtowers, and a series of strategic passageways, each designed to thwart invaders. This architectural marvel reflects the advanced military engineering techniques of the era. As a key component of the Nanjing City Wall, Zhonghua Gate played a crucial role in the city’s defense strategy, protecting the ancient capital from enemy attacks. Your knowledgeable tour guide will provide fascinating insights into the gate’s construction, its military significance, and the turbulent history of the city it safeguarded, helping you gain a deeper understanding of its architectural brilliance and historical importance.

Finally, visit the Confucius Temple, originally built in 1034 during the Song Dynasty as a place of worship and veneration for the great philosopher Confucius. This historic temple is not only a site of cultural and religious significance but also a symbol of Chinese reverence for education and moral values. The surrounding area, known as the Confucius Temple Area, is a vibrant hub filled with traditional Ming and Qing-style architecture, featuring a variety of tourist shops, snack bars, restaurants, and charming tea cafes. Here, you can explore a range of local delicacies and street food, including eight famous flavors that are a highlight of Nanjing’s culinary scene. As you wander through this lively district, your expert tour guide will provide insights into the history of the temple, the cultural importance of Confucius in Chinese society, and the rich traditions of the area, ensuring you gain a deeper understanding of this fascinating site while enjoying its vibrant atmosphere.

After tour ends, drive you back to train station.

Price Per Person in US Dollars