This morning, you will be picked up by your tour guide and driver at the railway station or your hotel in Nanjing, then start your Nanjing tour with an enjoyable pace. (If you arrive at Nanjing in noon time or later, the number and order of attractions can be adjusted based on your schedule and interests.)
Nanjing is called as the “City of Emperors” while Purple Mountain (Zijinshan) is the final resting places of the emperors and great leaders, including the founder of Ming Dynasty – Zhu Yuanzhang and Sun Yet-sen, the “Father of Republic China”. Today you are going to unlock their secrets in just one go!
Zhongshan Ling, located at the foot of the Purple Mountain, is the mausoleum park of Sun Yat-sen who was the leader of the Chinese revolution that ended the more than 2000 years feudal monarchy system. It is seen as China's version of the Lincoln Memorial. There are 392 steps to climb to the actual mausoleum, but you will be accompanied along by magnificent buildings and elegant landscapes. Pay your respect to Sun Yat-sen at his resting place, also enjoy the mesmerizing panoramic view of Nanjing city and surrounding.
Xiao Ling, located near to Zhongshan Ling, is the tomb of Zhu Yuanzhang who united China and established the mighty Ming Dynasty. Covering over 1,700,000 square meters, it is rather a vast complex of palaces, temples and greenery than a simple tomb, which took 25 years’ efforts of over 100,000 workers. As an honorable UNESCO World Heritage Site, Xiao Ling magnificent value of architecture and royal mausoleum culture. All the later mausoleums of both Ming and Qing Dynasties were built by the layout and style of Xiao Ling. You will walk at leisure to the mausoleum along the Sacred Road which is guarded by giant stone sculptures of various animals and generals from ancient time, making your visit calming and pleasant.
After the impressive mausoleums visiting, drive heading to the Confucius Temple (Fuzimiao). Built in Song Dynasty about 1000 years ago, the temple is one of the most important temples to worship the siege Confucius. For foreign visitors, it is a unique place where you can figure out how Chinese society, education system, government system was built Confucius’ thoughts, and how Confucianism have impacted relationship between people and basic guidance on how your Chinese think about our world. It is truly an inspiration.
Later, you will be taken to Qinhuai River area to explore the local lifestyle. The river runs through the city of Nanjing, remembering the history of Nanjing in many history books and poems. Today, it is a great place to wander around. Red lanterns, shops, eateries, souvenirs sellers cluster all round in the pedestrian street. At night the whole area is lit up with colorful lights thus creating a very impressive night scenario. It is very popular to take a colorfully decorated boat to ride on this ancient river, which will be a memorable experience.
Lastly, you will be escorted to your hotel. The rest time is free for you to relax and take rest. You can also be dropped off at Qinhuai River area if you want to stay more time at the area for dinner and relaxing.