Nanjing in 2 Days: Ancient Capitals, Presidential Legacies & Qinhuai Nights

Nanjing, which ranked 14th among Chinese cities in attracting international tourists in 2025, has stood as China's southern capital for six dynasties. Located along the Yangtze River, this historically rich city offers international travelers a profound journey through imperial tombs, early 20th-century political palaces, massive city walls, and a romantic riverside culture. Here is a curated 2-day itinerary to experience Nanjing's layers of history.

Day 1: Imperial Tombs, Chinese Republic & Night Cruises

Morning: Dr. Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum & Ming Xiaoling

Begin your morning at the Purple Mountain (Zijin Mountain) scenic area, Nanjing's green lung. Walk through the giant stone pillars to visit the Ming Xiaoling Mausoleum, the final resting place of the Hongwu Emperor, founder of the Ming Dynasty. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is famous for its "Sacred Way," a winding path lined with 600-year-old stone statues of elephants, lions, camels, and ancient officials.

Afterward, continue to the adjacent Dr. Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum. Climb the 392 granite steps to pay respects to the founder of modern China. The top platform offers a spectacular view of the forested Purple Mountain and Nanjing's skyline.

Getting There: Take Metro Line 2 to Muxuyuan station, then transfer to the Purple Mountain electric sightseeing shuttle.

Midday: Nanjing Presidential Palace

Head to the city center for lunch, then explore the Nanjing Presidential Palace. This sprawling complex is a living museum of modern Chinese history. It housed the Office of the President of the Republic of China (1912-1949), and before that served as the Governor-General's Office during the Qing Dynasty. The buildings showcase an eclectic mix of traditional Chinese pavilions, classical gardens, and early 20th-century Western architectural styles.

Afternoon: Nanjing Museum

Spend your late afternoon at the Nanjing Museum, one of China's premier national museums. Its massive collection spans over 400,000 artifacts. Don't miss the "Republic of China Hall" in the basement — a simulated underground shopping street styled after 1930s Nanjing, complete with vintage post offices, pharmacies, and steam train sounds, allowing you to travel back in time.

Evening: Confucius Temple (Fuzimiao) & Qinhuai River Cruise

Conclude your first day at Fuzimiao, the Confucius Temple district. The area comes alive at night when hundreds of red lanterns light up the Qinhuai River canal. Explore the bustling pedestrian streets filled with local handicraft vendors and snack stalls (try Nanjing salted duck and pan-fried beef dumplings). Afterward, take a traditional wooden boat cruise along the Qinhuai River to admire the illuminated pavilions and stone bridges.

---

Day 2: Ancient City Walls, Scenic Lakes & Modern Skywalks

Morning: Xuanwu Lake & Ancient Ming City Wall

Start your second day at Xuanwu Lake Park, a vast imperial lake in the city center. Stroll along the lakeside trails to see locals practicing tai chi and calligraphy. The park is bordered by the Nanjing City Wall, built during the Ming Dynasty. Walk up onto the wall at Jiefang Gate to hike along the top. The wall is one of the longest and best-preserved city walls in the world, offering a unique perspective of old brick fortifications against Xuanwu Lake and modern skyscrapers.

Getting There: Take Metro Line 1 to Xuanwu Lake Park (Jiefang Gate is nearby).

Afternoon: Jiming Temple & Jimingsi Road

Directly adjacent to the city wall is Jiming Temple, one of Nanjing's oldest and most active Buddhist temples. Originally built in 527 AD, the temple is situated on a small hill and features a beautiful yellow-walled pagoda. Jimingsi Road leading to the temple is famous for its cherry blossoms in spring, drawing millions of photographers.

Evening: Modern Skyline & Hexi District

Experience Nanjing's modern transition. Take Metro Line 2 or 10 to the Hexi New District. The area features futuristic architecture like the Nanjing International Youth Cultural Centre designed by Zaha Hadid. Visit a high-end rooftop bar on the top of the Zifeng Tower (one of China's tallest skyscrapers) to watch the sunset over the Yangtze River and celebrate your final evening in Nanjing.

Practical Tips for Nanjing

• High-Speed Rail: Nanjing is extremely well-connected. It takes just 1.5 hours from Shanghai and 3.5 hours from Beijing by high-speed train.
• Subway Access: Nanjing's subway covers nearly all tourist destinations. Alipay and WeChat Pay are accepted at all gates.
• Museum Bookings: Nanjing Museum and Presidential Palace require online passport registration. Book tickets in advance as daily slots are limited.