Nanjing, located in Jiangsu Province, is known as one of China’s ancient capitals of the Six Dynasties, brimming with a long history and rich cultural heritage. This city holds both the weight of history and the vitality of modern life. Last fall, I traveled here with my family, experiencing Nanjing’s cool autumn and its unique charm. As usual, today I’ll recommend two iconic attractions in Nanjing, offering you a glimpse into the city’s solemn history and lively atmosphere.
Zhongshan Mausoleum
The Zhongshan Mausoleum is one of Nanjing’s most iconic landmarks, built to honor Sun Zhongshan, China’s great revolutionary leader. The mausoleum is built against a mountain, combining both Chinese and Western architectural styles. It stands in solemn majesty and is filled with a deep sense of reverence.
As you enter the grounds, the long staircase leading up immediately catches your eye. Climbing to the top takes quite a lot energy, but each step feels like a journey through history. Once at the top, the main structure of the mausoleum is grand and imposing, facing the sweeping landscapes of Purple Mountain. Standing in front of the mausoleum, you can not only take in the entirety of the surrounding area but also gaze out over the city of Nanjing.
Inside, the mausoleum’s decor is simple and elegant, focusing on Sun Zhongshan’s life and revolutionary spirit. It’s an ideal place for remembrance and reflection, where you can almost feel the fervor of those who fought for the country. Visitors are recommended to go on weekday mornings to avoid the crowds, savoring a moment of peace to fully experience the unique atmosphere of this historic monument.
Confucius Temple
If Zhongshan Mausoleum symbolizes Nanjing’s solemnity and historical depth, the Confucius Temple district embodies the bustling life and lively character of the city. Confucius Temple is a famous historical and cultural neighborhood in Nanjing, It’s a little bit similar to the pedestrian street in Taiyuan that we mentioned before. Named after the temple dedicated to Confucius, the area preserves the architectural style of the Ming and Qing Dynasties. It’s also a hub for Nanjing’s food and handicrafts.
Visiting Confucius Temple at dusk, you’ll feel the passion of the place. The streets are lined with shops offering a variety of local snacks, such as duck blood vermicelli soup and salted duck, which are not only delicious and affordable but also represents local flavor. Walking through the bustling alleyways, you’ll come across numerous stores decorated in ancient styles, selling traditional handicrafts, making it a great spot to pick up a few souvenirs for family or friends.
Another major highlight of the Confucius Temple is the Qinhuai River’s nightscape. As night falls, lanterns and decorative lights along the Qinhuai River light up, casting beautiful reflections on the water. You can take a boat ride along the river, admiring the ancient buildings on both banks while listening to guides recount Nanjing’s historical tales. With the cool autumn breeze, it’s an unforgettable way to experience the unique charm of this thousand-year-old city.
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