Nanjing, the “Southern Capital,” is a city of profound historical weight, where the echoes of ancient dynasties and modern republics blend seamlessly with vibrant student life and tree-lined boulevards.
As the capital of Jiangsu Province, Nanjing sits elegantly on the Yangtze River. It is a major transit hub for eastern China, primarily served by Nanjing Lukou International Airport (NKG), and is a crucial stop on the high-speed rail network connecting Beijing and Shanghai. Nanjing’s history is tangible; it has served as the capital for six different dynasties and the Republic of China, leaving behind a legacy of massive city walls, grand mausoleums, and a distinct, scholarly atmosphere.
The city’s heartbeat is found under the canopy of its famous London plane trees, which line many of its historic streets. From the bustling, neon-lit commercial area of Xinjiekou to the serene, historic waters of the Qinhuai River near the Confucius Temple (Fuzimiao), Nanjing offers a deeply textured urban experience. The local culinary scene is renowned for its delicate Huaiyang influences, particularly the ubiquitous and beloved Nanjing Salted Duck, and a thriving street food culture.
Weather in Nanjing
Nanjing experiences a humid subtropical climate with four distinct seasons. It is traditionally known as one of the “Three Furnaces” of the Yangtze River, meaning summers (June to August) are extremely hot and humid, often accompanied by heavy “plum rains” in early summer. The best times to visit are spring (March to May), when the city’s parks are in full bloom, and autumn (September to November), which offers comfortable temperatures and stunning fall foliage, particularly around Purple Mountain. Winters are generally cold and damp.
Transportation
Nanjing’s infrastructure is highly developed. Nanjing South Railway Station is one of the largest high-speed rail hubs in Asia, making regional travel incredibly efficient. Within the city, the Nanjing Metro is expansive, clean, and easy to navigate, providing excellent access to almost all major historical sites, commercial districts, and universities. Taxis and ride-hailing apps are also widely available and affordable.
Don’t Miss
- Dr. Sun Yat-sen’s Mausoleum (Zhongshan Ling): Climb the grand staircase on Purple Mountain to pay respects at the monumental resting place of the “Father of Modern China.”
- Nanjing City Wall: Walk or cycle atop one of the longest and best-preserved ancient city walls in the world, offering fantastic views of Xuanwu Lake and the modern skyline.
- The Memorial Hall of the Victims in Nanjing Massacre: A somber, powerful, and impeccably designed museum dedicated to the tragic events of 1937—an essential experience for understanding the city’s modern history.
- Qinhuai River & Fuzimiao: Experience the vibrant night market atmosphere around the Confucius Temple, and take a boat ride along the historic Qinhuai River.
