Two-Day Nanjing Sightseeing Tour: Discover the Heart of Nanjing’s Rich Heritage

Day 1

In the morning, you will be picked up from your Nanjing hotel or Nanjing train station, you'll find a welcome signage "Your Way Holiday". Your tour start directly.

The first stop on your tour is the Dr. Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum, a site of profound historical importance, offering a stunning blend of magnificent architecture and picturesque scenery. Located on the slopes of Purple Mountain, the mausoleum spans nearly 20 acres of lush, verdant landscape, creating an atmosphere of tranquility and reverence. As you approach the mausoleum, you’ll be greeted by an impressive array of stairways, archways, and monumental structures, all designed to honor the legacy of Dr. Sun Yat-sen, the founding father of modern China. The architecture combines traditional Chinese and Western styles, symbolizing Dr. Sun’s vision of a harmonious and modernized China. The surrounding scenic area is filled with vibrant greenery, providing a peaceful environment for reflection. As you explore the site, your guide will offer insightful commentary on the life of Dr. Sun, his pivotal role in the overthrow of the Qing Dynasty, and his enduring influence on the shaping of modern China. You’ll also learn about the symbolism embedded in the mausoleum’s design and its significance as a tribute to his devotion to the Chinese people and their fight for independence. With your guide's expert service, you'll gain a deeper appreciation of this historical landmark and its connection to the legacy of Dr. Sun Yat-sen.

Next stop is Ming Xiaoling Mausoleum, a historical and cultural treasure nestled at the foot of Purple Mountain. Built in the early 15th century during the Ming Dynasty, the mausoleum is the final resting place of the first Ming Emperor, Zhu Yuanzhang, and his empress. This grand imperial tomb is a remarkable architectural feat, reflecting the glory and traditions of the Ming Dynasty. The site features stunning traditional Chinese architecture, including the renowned Spirit Way, a magnificent path lined with impressive stone statues of animals and officials. The mausoleum itself combines natural landscapes and human craftsmanship in a harmonious design. As you wander through the complex, you’ll be captivated by the peaceful surroundings of lush trees and historical structures that have stood the test of time. Your guide will provide insightful commentary on Emperor Zhu Yuanzhang’s life, the history of the Ming Dynasty, and the cultural symbolism embedded in the mausoleum's design. With your guide’s expertise, you will uncover the significance of the Ming Xiaoling Mausoleum in Chinese history.

Enjoy your lunch at a local Chinese restaurant, where you will have the chance to experience the rich and varied flavors of Nanjing cuisine. Nanjing, known for its long culinary history, offers a unique blend of both hearty and delicate dishes. One of the city's signature dishes is Nanjing Salted Duck, a flavorful and tender duck that is subtly seasoned and known for its aromatic, salty taste. Another must-try is the iconic Duck Blood Soup, a savory dish made with duck blood, tofu, and herbs, offering a rich and complex flavor. For something lighter, you can also enjoy Wonton Soup, with delicate wontons filled with pork and shrimp, served in a fragrant broth. Don't miss out on tasting the famous Nanjing-style pickled vegetables, which add a refreshing tang to your meal, perfect for balancing the rich flavors of the main dishes. If you’re feeling adventurous, try the local Nanjing-style dim sum, often filled with fresh seafood or pork, offering a delightful bite-sized treat. Feel free to let your guide know if you have any specific preferences or dietary restrictions—your guide is happy to recommend the best dishes and ensure you experience the authentic flavors of Nanjing.

After lunch, continue your tour to the Confucius Temple, a cultural landmark in Nanjing, originally built in 1034 during the Song Dynasty to honor Confucius, the great philosopher and educator. The temple is a striking example of traditional Chinese architecture, with intricate carvings and beautiful courtyards that highlight Confucius' influence on Chinese culture. As you walk through the temple, you will see various halls, including the main hall that enshrines a statue of Confucius, and the Stele Pavilion, which displays inscriptions of Confucian teachings. The surrounding Confucius Temple Area is a vibrant and bustling part of Nanjing, filled with markets, food stalls, teahouses, and shops selling local crafts, offering a perfect opportunity to experience local life. Your guide will provide fascinating insights into the historical and cultural significance of the temple, explain how Confucius’ philosophy shaped Chinese values, and share stories of the temple’s preservation over the centuries. They will also suggest local delicacies for you to try, ensuring you don’t miss out on the rich flavors of Nanjing.

Your final stop is Qinhuai River, often referred to as the "mother river" of Nanjing. This iconic waterway flows through the heart of the city, deeply intertwined with Nanjing's history and culture. The river has been a center of trade, culture, and entertainment for centuries, and it is flanked by ancient streets, traditional wooden houses, and beautiful bridges that give visitors a glimpse into the city's vibrant past. As you stroll along the riverbanks, you’ll pass by the picturesque scenery, which includes charming boat rides, traditional teahouses, and lively markets. The river is also known for its role in the development of Chinese art and literature, and its cultural significance is reflected in the nearby Confucius Temple area. The region around the river has been a gathering place for scholars, poets, and artists throughout the centuries, making it a true cultural heart of Nanjing. Your guide will share stories of the river’s historical importance, its role in shaping the city’s development, and the legendary tales that have been passed down through generations. They will also offer recommendations for exploring the area further, ensuring you experience the local culture to the fullest.

Drive you back to your hotel or Nanjing train station after the tour ends.

Day 2

After breakfast, our guide will meet you at your hotel lobby. Today, your tour begins with a visit to Niu Shou Mountain, one of the most significant spiritual sites in Nanjing. Niu Shou Mountain is known for its rich Buddhist history and stunning natural beauty. The mountain is home to the revered Usnisa Palace, which houses the sacred Usnisa Relic, a symbol of Buddha’s enlightenment. This peaceful and spiritual site has long been a destination for pilgrims, offering a tranquil environment perfect for reflection and meditation. The mountain’s scenic beauty is complemented by ancient temples, serene walking trails, and impressive architecture, making it an ideal location for those interested in Chinese culture and spirituality. As you explore the area, your guide will share the historical and cultural significance of Niu Shou Mountain, its role in Chinese Buddhism, and the unique architectural features of the temples and palaces here. Your guide will also offer insights into the religious practices and traditions associated with the mountain, providing a deeper understanding of its place in both Nanjing’s history and in the broader Buddhist heritage.

After lunch, your tour continues with a visit to the Nanjing Ming City Wall, a grand testament to the city’s rich history and military prowess. The Nanjing Ming City Wall, built during the Ming Dynasty in the early 15th century, stretches over 33 kilometers and is one of the longest city walls in China. It was constructed as a defense measure for the capital city, and its massive scale and impressive architecture highlight the strategic importance of Nanjing during the Ming Dynasty. As you explore the wall, you’ll walk along its well-preserved sections, marveling at the strength and ingenuity of ancient Chinese military engineering. The wall is punctuated by imposing gates, watchtowers, and battlements, which were once essential for the city’s protection from invaders. Your guide will provide fascinating insights into the historical significance of the wall, its construction process, and the role it played in the defense of the city. As you move along the wall, you’ll also learn about the cultural and political climate of the time, making this visit an enriching experience that ties Nanjing’s past to its present.

After tour ends, drive you back to your hotel or train station.

Price Per Person in US Dollars