About Nanjing
Nanjing, the capital of Jiangsu Province, is a city famous for its rich culture (more than 2400 year's history) and beautiful landscape. Eastern Wu, Eastern Jin, Song, Qi, Liang, Chen, Southern Tang and Ming Dynasties all located their capitals in Nanjing. Taiping Heavenly Kingdom and Republic of China also followed suit. These eras left behind many famous attractions including: lovely banks of Xuanwu Lake, bright lights and shops near Confucius Temple, the best preserved ancient city wall worldwide, "World Heritage-Listed" Ming Tomb, Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Mausoleum and many more cultural delights.
Nanjing resides amid abundant prosperity along the lower reaches of Yangtze River. Their electronic, automotive, steel, electrical and chemical industries rank among the top in China. Nanjing also ranks as one of China's top four Science Research and Education Center cities. Business and financial activities continue to grow and flourish in Nanjing as well.
Size of Nanjing
Nanjing covers an area of 6,598 square kilometers (2,547square miles).
Weather Conditions
Nanjing, located in the monsoon climate area (north subtropical zone) enjoys four distinct seasons. Its annual average temperature is 17.8℃/64°F. Late June, early July is commonly referred to as "Rainy Plum Season". Quality air is enjoyed over 280 days/year. Optimal time for traveling to Nanjing is September - November.
Winter and Spring
Nanjing's winter begins late November and ends in March. Its lowest temperature is often below 0℃/32°F. Pack sweaters, winter or rain coats and dress warmly. Spring is short with rainy weather leading into very hot summers. Check weather conditions before leaving.
Summer and Autumn
Nanjing's summer lasts from May to September. It is very hot with the highest temperature over 35℃/95°F this time of year. Pack loose-fitting summer clothes (cotton t-shirts, shorts, etc.). Pack clothes that breathe easily for high humidity. Don't forget to also include sunglasses, UV protection and mosquito repellant. Autumn is short in Nanjing (Nanjing's best weather). Pack long-sleeved shirts, light jackets and lightweight sweaters.
Currency
The unit of money in China is called Renminbi(RMB)or Yuan.Credit cards are widely accepted in major hotels and department stores.
Tipping
Officially, tipping is already included so it is unnecessary in China.
Public Holidays
New Year's Day: Jan 1st
Chinese (Lunar) New Year: Jan 1st-3rd (Lunar Calendar)
Labor Day: May 1st-3rd
National Day: Oct 1st - 3rd
Public Transportation
Subway for Number One Line (Nanjing Metro)
Nanjing Olympic Center Station connects to Maigaoqiao Station (16 stops between).
Time Schedule
Monday – Thursday: 6:30 — 22:30
Friday – Sunday: 6:30 — 23:00 (Xiaohang Station - Maigaoqiao Station)
Friday – Sunday: 6:30 — 22:30 (Nanjing Olympic Center Station– Maigaoqiao Station)
Price:
RMB 2 (1 to 8 stops); RMB 3 (9 to 12 stops); RMB 4 (13 to 16 stops).
Taxi
5:00am-11:00pm: RMB 9 (first 3km), and RMB 2.40 (each kilometer thereafter). RMB 1 should be added each time as tax.
11:00pm-5:00am: RMB 9 (first 3km), and RMB 2.70 (each kilometer thereafter). RMB 1 should be added each time as tax.
Bus
Board bus at front, exit from rear doors. Air-conditioned bus charges RMB 2 per person. Standard bus charges RMB 1 per person. Please have loose change, bus does not make change.
Airport and railway station Information
Luko International Airport about 47 kilos southeast of the Hotel Fifty minutes by Taxi
Nanjing railway station about 6 kilos northeast of the Hotel Ten minutes by Taxi
Special Attractions
Zhongshan Hill Scenic Area
Zhongshan Hill Scenic Area is one of China's true treasures. Purple Mountain area is long revered for its lush beauty, abundant greenery, awe-inspiring plum blossoms and of course, "perfect Feng Shui". Dynasties have been attracted for centuries to its peaceful, tranquil setting showcasing Nanjing's highest peak. Dr. Sun Yat-Sen's Mausoleum, Plum Blossom Hill, Purple Mountain Observatory, Ming tombs, tree-lined paths and visual wonders await. This is one destination you cannot miss. It helps define Nanjing's proud heritage.
Dr. Sun Yat-Sen's Mausoleum
Built within natural mountain terrain, this award-winning architectural design houses the tomb of China's great revolutionary forerunner, Dr. Sun Yat-Sen. People travel the world over to climb the floating steps, a visual feat. The architecture alone received awards and acclaim worldwide. It is extremely impressive.
The Ming Tomb
Ming Dynasty's founding emperor, Zhu Yuanzhang built his tomb at the foot of Purple Mountain. This is recognized as one of the largest imperial tombs in China. The Ming Tomb's sacred path is lined on either side with 12 pairs of stone lions, camels, elephants, unicorns, horses all paying respect. Next you will find 4 pairs of military and civil officers standing guard. This site is a must-see for all travelers to Nanjing.
Confucius Temple
Although damaged and rebuilt many times, Nanjing's Confucius Temple remains a hallowed center for many tourists. Confucius Temple was built in 1034 during North Song Dynasty. Today, it has been thoroughly restored in the traditional style of the late Qing Dynasty with white-washed walls and classic Chinese design. Located on Qinhuai River, this area flourishes with bustling shops, souvenirs and restaurants by day. At night guests are enchanted and entranced by a wonderland of brightly colored lamps against the darkened sky.
Ming City Wall and Ming City Gates
Nanjing celebrated its heyday during Ming Dynasty. Numerous reminders still exist of these golden years perched throughout the city. Constructed between 1366 and 1386 (using over two hundred thousand workers), Ming City Wall is the longest city wall ever built. Each brick remains visibly stamped with place of origin and name of the bricklayer. Most fascinating are its gates, with their massive fortifications. Majestic Zhonghua Gate consists of four rows of gates containing vaults. These vaults could house and hide three thousand soldiers at one time, to the astonishment of any potential invaders/enemies.
Xuanwu Lake
Nestled at the bottom of Purple Mountain, Xuanwu Lake provides a quiet oasis from the hectic sounds of nearby Nanjing. Ming Wall serves as background to landscaped greenery leading to Nanjin's largest lake. Tree-lined paths create a canopy of leaves with hammocks available and many entertainment pursuits (outdoor picnic tables, pool tables and even karaoke on weekends). Rent a paddle boat and enjoy Nanjing's city skyline while ensconced in nature's gracious beauty. You will feel relaxed and refreshed.
Yuejiang Tower
The Yuejiang Tower is located northwest of Nanjing overlooking Yangtze River. You will find over 30 historical attractions including Wanxian Pavilion, ancient barbettes amid ancient temples: Dizang, Five-Color Earth and Jinghai. Receiving great acclaim for integrating heritage with natural landscape into one comprehensive unit/park this tourist site ranks AAAA class of China. Yuejiang Tower gleams in the sun with its glazed tiles, red columns, flying phoenixes accented by red painted doors beckoning from far away.
Baochuan Shipyard Ruins
Located west of the city you will find Zhongbao Village. Most Chinese ships launched westward at the helm of famous Zhen He (Ming Dynasty) were built here. Upon Zhen He's 600 year anniversary of his voyages to the west, this shipyard was transformed and inaugurated into a park. You can still find reminders and relics of this epic era. Feel the greatness that launched a thousand ships far before their time.
Virescence Exposition Garden
Virescence Exposition Garden is any landscaper's dream. Walking along endless garden paths (covering 77 hectares/ 770000 square meters/0.3 square miles), one can easily get lost in the exquisite plant and floral combinations, both local and exotic. Equipped with exhibition stations, greenhouse displays, service centers and transaction areas, Virescence Exposition Garden satisfies many desires and needs. Selected plants and flowers can be purchased on-site at designated stations. Virescence showcases 42 gardens for examining and purchasing with 3 separate riverside areas designed purely for pleasure. It is a large-scale botanical theme park focusing on ecology, landscaping, plant science, entertainment and curiosity aspects created to delight all generations. Come breathe the fresh air and enjoy nature's greenery at its best. You will feel rejuvenated!
Museums & Galleries
Nanjing Museum
Visit Nanjing Museum and witness China's cultural progression over the past 5,000 years. See ancient pottery from caveman days, ancient weapons, jade burial items, porcelain, silk, calligraphy and much more. Nanjing Museum displays much of what made China awe-inspiring and great, while being educational in the process. You can purchase gift items onsite in their museum store.
Nanjing City Museum
Nanjing City Museum, also called Chaotian Palace was formerly an imperial palace in Ming Dynasty (1368-1644), but has been restored and transformed into a municipal museum. The palace was once a school for privileged children and also a location for nobility to worship their ancestors. Imperial times and Ming Dynasty court life are reenacted daily at the palace square (10:30 am), complete with eunuchs, courtiers, guards and dancing girls. The museum contains more than 100,000 prized items on exhibition.
Nanjing Folk Culture Museum
Nanjing Folk Culture Museum, also called The Former Residence of Ganxi, was first built in Qing Dynasty. Its present area covers more than 8,000 square meters/86,114 square feet, which is the largest and best preserved private residence of Qing Dynasty in Nanjing. Nanjing Folk Culture Museum resides within this residence. It is a professional museum displaying collections of folk articles, perfect for studying local traits and customs.
Jiangsu Art Gallery
Jiangsu Art Gallery is the largest collection of art in Jiangsu Province. You will find some of the best traditional and contemporary art works and creations in all of China here. Truly fascinating and inspirational, attracting art lovers worldwide!
Shopping and recreation
Cinemas
Nanjing Shangying Warner Brothers Cinema
This is a unique cinematic environment from Warner Brothers, designed to meet a wide variety of tastes. It provides a relaxing atmosphere to view movies housing 8 huge screens and over 2,000 seating capacity available. Cushioned, upholstered seats welcome you to enjoy a wonderful entertainment experience.
Bookstores
Xinhua Bookstore
Xinhua is a national-chain bookstore offering books, magazines, CDs, DVDs and even educational games in many categories, only 5 minute's walk from Yishiyuan Hotel. They have Chinese and international selections.
Foreign Language Bookstore
Foreign Language Bookstore caters primarily to international travelers with a broader selection of various foreign publications, in many languages. You will find both modern and classic selections, even bestsellers and magazines.
Shopping
Golden Eagle International Shopping Center
In Xinjiekou,lies Nanjing's luxury shopping center, Golden Eagle. You will find world-famous brands available there for women, men and children among any other items of interest.
Orient Department Store
In Xinjiekou,lies the Orient Department Store, another huge department store filled with designer stores, restaurants, Haagen-Dazs and Starbucks.
Deji Plaza
Deji Plaza is Nanjing's newest and exclusive shopping center in all of Nanjing located in Xinjiekou.
Family Activities
Hongshan Zoo
Located in Hongshan Forest Park, Hongshan Zoo is the biggest zoo in Jiangsu Province, lying in the north of Nanjing city. There you can see all kinds of animals, such as pandas, elephants, lions, tigers, deer and birds. Some varieties are world-famous while some are quickly becoming endangered species.
Ocean World
Ocean World is the largest "birdeye's view of the ocean" in all of China. There you will find more than 200 exotic strains of saltwater fish totaling up to no less than 10,000! You can enjoy the dolphin show in Dolphinarium or just watch them swim and play. You can also select souvenirs in the gift shop.
Hospital
Hospital nearby
Gulou Hospital about 2 kilos south of the Hotel Five minutes by Taxi
(One of the best hospitals in Nanjing)
Nanjing Specialties
Nanjing Yun (Cloud) Brocade
One of China's three famous brocades, it was used exclusively by imperial houses or as gifts bestowed by emperors on princes or senior officials. Today it is still woven by hand using traditional techniques initially founded in Nanjing.
Yun Brocade is famous for its use of gold and silver threads imparting brilliance reflected by its name Yun or "cloud". It is a traditional handicraft beginning in the Yuan Dynasty.
You will find Yun Brocade Museum located in Jiangdongmen Gate exhibiting Chinese National Brocade Art also displaying examples of Nanjing's Yun Brocade. You can see how Yun Brocade is made in that museum, and you can also purchase precious Yun Brocade in their museum shop.
Add:No.240, East Chating Street
Open Time:08:30-16:30
Ticket: RMB15
Nanjing Gold Foil
The world famous Nanjing Gold Foil has a production history of 1700 years and it is primarily used for making prized and admired art works. Gold Foil is precisely sliced gold into very thin pieces/sheets (can be as thin as 0.14mm or 1/16 of an inch)! It is used for decorative art works and even for food (especially candies).
Dating back to Southern Tang Dynasty era, it is still produced traditionally by hand. It is also used in buildings, religious sculptures, and even precious, ancient Chinese medicines. Dongshan, located in Jiangning district, Nanjing, is the largest producer of Nanjing Gold Foil in China. They possess state-of-the-art equipment with extensive ranges of applications for producing and processing foil products into all assortments of products and crafts. They are known for their artisans, wide range of items produced and time-honored excellence.
Salted Nanjing Duck
As a well-known, highly prized delicacy, Salted Nanjing Duck has been enjoyed and in demand over one thousand years. It is not an easy undertaking to make, requiring hours of preparation. This product is well worth the wait with its noted white skin, dark meat and unique, delicious taste.
Rain Flower Pebbles
Referred to as Lucky Stones, these formations are one of Nanjing's trademarks. Their origins are ancient riverbeds of the great and mighty Yangtze River. They come in an assortment of colors, designs, shapes and sizes. Deep, rich green pebbles are called Rain Flower Agate. Some are even glittering or crystal-clear. They were praised abroad as "Heaven-Sent Treasures". |