Modern Flair in China’s Ancient Capital, Nanjing

📍 Itinerary Overview
1-2 days to explore Nanjing’s blend of Ming Dynasty grandeur, poignant wartime history, and vibrant street food culture. Best for history buffs, photographers, and slow travelers.

🚩 Sightseeing Route (1-Day Highlights)
Morning:
- Ming Xiaoling Mausoleum (UNESCO World Heritage) – Walk the Sacred Way flanked by stone statues of elephants and camels.
- Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum – Climb 392 steps for panoramic views of Purple Mountain.
Afternoon:
- Confucius Temple (Fuzimiao) Quarter – Stroll along Qinhuai River, tour the temple, and snack on duck blood vermicelli soup.
- Presidential Palace – Explore 600 years of history, from Ming Dynasty gardens to Chiang Kai-shek’s office.
Evening:
- Lao Men Dong – Night market for saltwater duck and crispy sesame pancakes.

🏖️ Must-Visit Attractions
- **Purple Mountain (Zijin Shan): Cable car to Linggu Temple or hike through maple forests.
- Nanjing Massacre Memorial Hall: A solemn but essential visit.
- Xuanwu Lake: Rent a paddleboat under the city wall shadows.

🚇 Transportation
- Metro: Lines 1/2/3 cover major sights (¥2–5 per ride).
- Taxi: Affordable (¥10–30 for short trips).
- Bike: Mobike/HelloBike for lakeside rides.

📷 Photo Spots
1. City Wall at Sunset (near Zhonghua Gate).
2. Confucius Temple’s lantern-lit riverbanks.
3. Purple Mountain’s maple leaves (autumn).

🍜 Local Cuisine
- Nanjing Saltwater Duck (try at Jinling Restaurant).
- Duck Blood Vermicelli Soup (Fuzimiao street stalls).
- Tangbao** (soup dumplings) at Sifangfu.

🏠 Accommodation
Sofitel Nanjing Galaxy Suning (五星级)
- Why Stay Here? Rooftop pool with skyline views, walkable to Xinjiekou shopping district.
- Price: ~¥800–1,200/night.

💡 Tips
- Avoid weekends at Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum (overcrowded).
- Spring/Autumn are ideal (summers are scorching).
- Bargain hard in Fuzimiao’s souvenir shops.

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