Nanjing

Dr Sun Yat-sen was one of the pioneers at the forefront in the struggle to transform China from a dynastic feudal state to a republic for the people. He continues to be celebrated and the plan of his mausoleum is in the shape of an alarm bell, signifying the “perpetual ringing of the alarm bell to arouse people”. Dr Sun Yat-sen’s Mausoleum is a classic building of the architectural style used during the early days of the Republic of China.

The tomb of Zhu Yuanzhang, the first emperor of the Ming dynasty, is the first of the imperial tombs of the Ming and Qing dynasties. It took 38 years to complete the construction of the Ming Xiaoling Mausoleum which, through a history of over 600 years, was incorporated into the UNESCO World heritage list in 2003.

Fuzi Miao, once a place where scholars took royal examinations on Confucian teachings, now stands as a popular destination for visitors. During imperial times, scholars came here to test their proficiency in the philosophical teachings of Confucius. Upon passing, the top students would go on to work in the royal court as aides and govern state affairs. This historical significance is just one of the reasons why this newly reconstructed area is popular with visitors.

Qixia Mountain, located in northeastern Nanjing, is renowned for its historic Qixia Temple and stunning autumn foliage. The temple, a notable scenic spot, features a carved Buddhist rock from the Southern Dynasty and a dagoba (a Tibetan-style pagoda built as a solid hemispherical dome enshrining religious relics or the remains of kings) from the Sui Dynasty. The maple trees on the mountain turn a fiery red in autumn, a fascinating treat for anyone daring the high climb to the mountaintop.

The Nanjing Museum holds the distinction of being the first national museum in China. Even today, it remains one of the largest museums in China, with over 400,000 items in its permanent collection. The museum's palatial architecture is breathtaking, encompassing a historical area and art gallery with a total of 12 exhibition halls. Some of the most precious ancient artefacts are exhibited here, making it a must-see for history enthusiasts. An important Chinese art masterpiece, “Story of the Grand Capital”, is digitally animated and projected onto textured backgrounds.

The Qinhuai River has flowed through Nanjing since its founding. Over the years, the area alongside the river has become the city's busiest and oldest neighbourhood. Taking a boat tour, especially at night, is the best way to appreciate the beauty of this historic city. Here, you can sample a variety of authentic street food and find unique souvenirs.

Step back in time at Zhan Yuan, a classic Chinese garden built during the Ming Dynasty, renowned for its harmonious blend of architecture and nature. It includes halls and pavilions interspersed with ponds, flowers, and rockeries. The space is cleverly divided by walls and trees, yet remains connected through strategically placed windows and doors. This masterful use of space creates unique views from different points across the garden, inviting exploration and contemplation.

Laomendong (literally meaning "East of Old Door") was once the most lively commercial street in Nanjing. Despite several renovations, all the classical wooden structures are perfectly preserved, transporting visitors back in time with their traditional architecture and charming atmosphere. This is also a commercial centre where you can find a variety of Nanjing specialities, such as stinky tofu, stick-pot, tiny steamed buns, and paper kites.

Jiming Temple, a revered place of worship since the 14th century, continues to attract numerous visitors with its blend of history and natural beauty. First constructed in the 14th century, the temple has undergone several renovations, with most of what we see today reconstructed in the 1980s. It remains the region's most attended temple to date. In spring, the blooming sakura along the path bathe the temple in pink, attracting many visitors.

Niushoushan Buddhist Park, located on the outskirts of Nanjing, seamlessly blends ancient Buddhist heritage with modern architectural marvels. Built around Ox Head Mountain, this sprawling cultural park opened as a tourist attraction in 2014, but its history as a Buddhist site dates back to the Tang dynasty (618–907 AD). Explore the magnificent Usnisa (Foding) Palace, with its underground halls and impressive jade Buddha. Don't miss the towering Usnisa Pagoda, a nine-story structure built in the Tang dynasty style. Discover the park's rich Buddhist heritage and enjoy the beautiful mountain scenery.