Interesting Things To Do In Nanjing China
An Overview of Nanjing
Nanjing, sometimes romanticized as Nanking or Nan-Ching, is a large city along the Yangtze River. The city once served as the Chinese capital during the reign of the Ming Dynasty. The city is known for its deep history, nearby mountains, peaceful waters and large urban center. It is recognized as one of the Four Great Ancient Capitals of Chinese. Though Nanjing is now a symbol of prosperity, recovery and growth, it had several dark chapters in history, most recently during a brutal destructive campaign by the Japanese during WWII. Due to its ancient history, modern infrastructure and excellent neighborhood communities, there are many interesting things to do in Nanjing China.
Interesting Things To Do In Nanjing China
The Temple Complex around Porcelain Tower
This entirely unique temple complex as once known as “The Great Bao’en Temple before additions to the structure changed its name to “Porcelain Tower.” Built on the site of China’s original legendary Porcelain Tower, this is a stunningly modern heritage site which combines, ruins, artifacts, and ancient Buddhism with colorful hallways, immersive light displays, light-crafted statues and compelling temple grounds. The complex is enormous, requiring about half a day to experience fully.
Porcelain Tower
The original Porcelain Tower was an enormous porcelain-covered pagoda in Nanjing, which was tragically destroyed during the Taiping rebellion. However, Nanjing has built a replacement beside the Qinhuai River as part of the former Great Bao’en Temple.
Ming Xiaoling Mausoleum
This mausoleum belongs to the Hongwu Emperor, the founder of the Ming Dynasty. The temple lies at the southern foot of the Purple Mountain, standing as one of the largest imperial tombs of China. The mausoleum grounds are gorgeous to behold, with long trails passing carved animal statues and winding paths snaking through various gardens.
Lao Mendong
This is a prominent traditionally-styled shopping, restaurant and recreation neighborhood in Nanjing, reminiscent of Qing Dynasty architecture. This area is home to a museum complex, tourist shops, traditional food options and, from 7:00 PM to 8:30 PM, guests can enjoy a large light-projection show for free on part of the Nanjing City Wall. The light performance depicts the history and revival of Nanjing.
Xuanwu Lake Park
This enormous lake was part of the largest Imperial Lake Garden in Chinese histroy. The Lake is known for its Five Isles which showcase numerous attractions. This includes statues standing upon the water, peddle-boat rentals, numerous walking trails, views of Jiming Temple, the Mengchun Mansion and much more.
Confucius Temple at Fuzimiao
This grand temple accented by surrounding water was a Confucius Temple originally constructed in 1034 during the reign of the Song Dynasty.
Memorial Hall
One of the more harrowing features of the city is known as the Memorial Hall of the Victims in Nanjing Massacre by Japanese Invaders. The rough statues in haunting poses walk in front of a long, pale wall in memory of those who died during the Japanese invasion on Nanjing.
City Wall of Nanjing
The City Walls of Nanjing are largely intact, designed by the Hongqu Emperor after founding the Ming Dynasty. The walls were designed to protect the rising ancient Chinese capital. In the modern era, the walls border waterways, walking paths and preserved ancient structures of Nanjing.
Purple Mountain
Otherwise known as Zijin Shan, this is a large, densely forested mountain on the eastern side of Nanjing. The mountain is home to a wide number of parks and green spaces including Sun Zhongshan Memorial Hall, Song Meiling’s Villa, Ming Xiaoling Mausoleum Scenic Area, Nanjing Botanical Garden and the Toutuoling Scenic Overlook. Purple Mountain’s peaks are often backlit by purple and golden clouds at dawn and dusk, granting the mountain its name.
Dr. Sun Yat-sen’s Mausoleum
Found at the foot of the second peak of Purple Mountain, this tomb honor Dr. Sun Yat-sen, a political philosopher and physician who was the first provisional president of the Republic of China.
Memorial Hall of the Victims in Nanjing Massacre by Japanese Invaders
This harrowing memorial was built in memory to the citizens of Nanjing who died during the Japanese Invasion of China during WWII.
The Ming Palace
Sometimes referenced as “The Forbidden City of Nanjing,” this large imperial palace complex served as the center of power for the Ming Dynasty when Nanjing was the capital of China. The palace is home to the Wuchaomen Heritage Park, the Ming Imperial Palace Art Museum, The Ming Gu Gong Ruins Park and other imperial structures.
The Stone City
This is an ancient fortified urban defense system within Nanjing. Almost all of the original city and its defenses have been destroyed over the years, so only portions of the broad wall can still be seen. Due to the structure’s decay, it often receives the nickname “Ghost Face.” The wall can be found in the Stone City Ruins Park of Nanjing, which also contains Beacon Tower, riverside walks and several military history museums.
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