Six Dynasties Ancient Capital Must-Visit Guide

Four days of walking non-stop in Nanjing in early August, hitting over 100,000 steps! This ancient capital of the Six Dynasties is truly charming, with concentrated attractions all accessible by subway. Highly recommended for anyone wanting to easily explore this historic city~

✨Recommended itinerary:
【DAY1】Hongshan Zoo (see the internet-famous Dudu) → Xuanwu Lake (super relaxing for a stroll) → Jiming Temple (very popular for incense offerings) → Ming City Wall (truly impressive) → Yihe Road (perfect for photos, forever classic)
📍Try the vegetarian dishes at the Jiming Temple exit, around 30+ RMB per person

【DAY2】Music Stage (pigeons are so soothing) → Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum (392 steps to climb) → Ming Xiaoling Mausoleum (the Sacred Way is stunning) → Nanjing Museum (Republic of China exhibit is a must-see)
⚠ Remember to book the museum in advance, or you’ll face at least a 1-hour queue

【DAY3】Six Dynasties Museum (off the beaten path but amazing) → Presidential Palace (huge!) → Vanguard Bookstore (a must for artsy visitors) → Laomendong (the lanterns are breathtaking) → Confucius Temple (night view worth the ticket)
🍡 At Laomendong, Lu’s Plum Blossom Cake and Jiming Soup Dumplings are forever classics

【DAY4】Memorial Hall for Compatriots Killed in the Nanjing Massacre (a must-visit) → Niushou Mountain (Buddha Summit Palace built with a 4 billion RMB investment)
🚌 It’s best to take the shuttle bus at Niushou Mountain; walking will be exhausting

💡Real tips:
1⃣ Nanjing’s attractions are really huge! Comfortable shoes are essential
2⃣ It’s much cheaper to buy combined attraction tickets than single ones
3⃣ The lanterns at Laomendong are just as beautiful as the paid ones at Bailuzhou, saving you 80 RMB
4⃣ Visit the museum on weekday mornings for fewer crowds and a better experience

🏨 Accommodation recommendation:
Near Xinjiekou subway station is the most convenient! We stayed at a chain hotel booked in advance for just 300+ RMB/night, only a 5-minute walk to Deji Plaza

🍜 Must-eat list:
▪️ Xinjiekou area: Feng Sanniang’s Braised Beef, Jinling Egg Burger
▪️ Laomendong: Blue Boss Sweet Lotus Root Porridge, Jiang Youji Potstickers
▪️ Specialty souvenirs: Han Fuxing Salted Duck, Lvliuju Green Rice Balls