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Night Attractions
Top 20 Night Attractions in Nanjing [2025]
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Fuzimiao (Confucius Temple) Qinhuai Scenic Area
4.7
/5
7049 reviews
7.5
Confucius Temple/Qinhuai River Scenic Area | 2.4 km from downtown
Phone +8602552209788
Address: No. 53, Gongyuan West Street, Qinhuai District, Nanjing
Recommended sightseeing time: 2-4 hours
Selected for 2 years in a row
Highlights:
Qinhuai Lantern Festival in February
Night cruise & historical tales
Saved by 1364 users4702 positive reviews
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The Qinhuai River scenery belt of Confucius Temple is really worth visiting! This is the historical and cultural treasure of Nanjing, with a deep cultural heritage. Confucius Temple and Jiangnan Gongyuan are all witnessing the glory of the past. Walking along the Qinhuai River, the Ming and Qing styles of architecture are simple and charming, which can make you feel the unique style of old Nanjing. It is even more beautiful at night. The lights are on at the beginning, the river is sparkling, and the paintings are shuttled in the river. The atmosphere of "Nightbo Qinhuai Near Restaurant" is directly full. Tired of shopping, there are various Nanjing specialty snacks on the street, such as duck blood vermicelli soup, plum cake, the taste is authentic, the price is OK. Whether it is to feel the history and culture, or to relax and taste food, this place will not disappoint you. It can be said to be a must-visit place for Nanjing tourism!
The Qinhuai River Scenic Area is a place I have longed for. It carries the former prosperity of Nanjing and witnesses the rise and fall of Nanjing and the dynasties. After all, Nanjing is the ancient capital of the Six Dynasties and was once a prosperous representative of Jiangnan. The Qinhuai River painted boat cruise along the Qinhuai River is more beautiful at night than during the day. There are crowds of people and an endless stream. It is worth the ticket price!
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Grand Baoen Temple Heritage and Scenic Area
4.7
/5
8330 reviews
7.5
From BRL 59.17
Confucius Temple/Qinhuai River Scenic Area | 3.6 km from downtown
Phone +8602552009999
Address: No. 1 Yuhua Road, Qinhuai District, Nanjing
Recommended sightseeing time: 2-3 hours
No. 5 of Best Things to Do in Nanjing
Highlights:
Dazzling night light show at Liu Li Pagoda
Taste local snacks from Bao'en Food Court
Saved by 799 users6330 positive reviews
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It's definitely worth the visit. The design is incredibly thoughtful. The overall experience was truly wonderful. I highly recommend hiring a professional guide; the explanations are easy to understand, cohesive, and engaging. I can't help but marvel at the wisdom and talent of the ancients. The environmental design is also unique, showcasing history, stories, characters, and colors. This museum is truly worth a visit.
Bao'en Temple is worth a visit. The original glazed pagoda, famous for its colorful glazed components and hailed as an "Oriental Wonder," was destroyed by war in the 17th century. The 2010 rebuilt glass pagoda retains the Ming Dynasty underground palace and pagoda base, but uses steel and glass as materials, significantly different from traditional glazed craftsmanship. I think it's quite different from the original glazed pagoda, lacking a sense of historical weight and visual impact. It would be much better if the original architectural features could be restored.
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Nanjing City Wall
4.6
/5
1603 reviews
6.8
From BRL 35.20
Based on 481 reviews
Xuanwu Lake Scenic Area/Jiming Temple | 2.8 km from downtown
Phone +8602586625435
Address: Lanqi Road, Xuanwu District, Nanjing
Recommended sightseeing time: 2-4 hours
Highlights:
Nanjing snacks at Laomendong
Illuminated city wall with traditional Chinese lanterns
Saved by 837 users1109 positive reviews
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The Nanjing City Wall, a towering structure stretching back six hundred years, is a testament to its majestic majesty, forged from massive stone. The exquisitely constructed Zhonghua Gate and the Taicheng section, nestled amidst the mountains and water, showcase the wisdom and military ingenuity of ancient craftsmen. Strolling the walls, overlooking the misty waters of Nanjing, one can feel the vicissitudes of history. This world's longest existing city wall is not only a historical record of brick and stone, but also a spiritual totem of Nanjing, worthy of every Chinese citizen's visit and remembrance.
I climbed the city wall twice at Jiefang Gate. Twelve years ago, there weren't as many tourists as there are now. There were plenty of wild vegetables growing on the ground along the wall toward Taiping Gate, and locals came to pick them. Much of the writing on the bricks is still very clear. Today, the renovations are more regular, and the lighting is more ornate than it was back then, but the historical weight has diminished.
No.
4
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Xuanwu Lake Scenic Area
4.7
/5
6836 reviews
6.7
Based on 685 reviews
Xuanwu Lake Scenic Area/Jiming Temple | 3.5 km from downtown
Phone +8602558869797
Address: No. 1 Xuanwu Lane, Xuanwu District, Nanjing
Recommended sightseeing time: 2-4 hours
No. 6 of Fall Viewing Attractions in Nanjing
Highlights:
Light & music fountain(nightly) | Stunning sunset
Royal-garden lake(historical sites) | Boat rowing
Saved by 629 users2673 positive reviews
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Xuanwu Lake, also known as Houhu and Beihu, is located in Xuanwu District, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province. Bounded by Purple Mountain to the east, the Ming Dynasty City Wall to the west, Nanjing Railway Station to the north, and Fuzhou Mountain to the south, Xuanwu Lake stretches 2.4 kilometers from north to south and 2.0 kilometers from east to west. It has a surface area of 3.78 square kilometers and a reservoir capacity of approximately 5.5 million cubic meters.
Xuanwu Lake is a shallow lake, a remnant of the ancient Qinhuai Canal of the Yangtze River. It is the heart of Nanjing's urban water system and belongs to the Jinchuan River system. Its water is primarily supplied by rainwater from the northern foothills of Zhongshan (Purple Mountain). Connected to the Yangtze River via the Jinchuan, Pearl, and Qinhuai Rivers, Xuanwu Lake serves a variety of functions, including flood control and drainage, ecological landscape development, leisure activities for residents, tourism, and water replenishment for urban river ecosystems. Xuanwu Lake is one of the three famous lakes in the Jiangnan region. Historically, the area surrounding ancient Xuanwu Lake was the most habitable area in Nanjing, home to ancient cultural sites such as Beiyinyangying, Suojin Village, and Anhuai Village. Xuanwu Lake also served as an imperial garden lake and a training ground for naval exercises during the Six Dynasties period. It was also the site of the National Archives, where the Yellow Books were kept during the Ming Dynasty. Consequently, Xuanwu Lake is known as the largest inner-city park in the Jiangnan region, the largest imperial garden lake in China, and the last remaining imperial garden in Jiangnan. It is also known as the "Pearl of Jinling."
On August 19, 1928, Xuanwu Lake officially opened to the public as a park. In February 2005, Xuanwu Lake Park was designated a National AAAA-level Tourist Attraction by China's National Tourism Administration. In September 2008, Xuanwu Lake Park was designated a National Key Park by the Ministry of Housing and Urban-Rural Development of the People's Republic of China. In September 2016, Xuanwu Lake Park was designated a National Water Conservancy Scenic Area by the Ministry of Water Resources of the People's Republic of China.
The formation of Xuanwu Lake is primarily due to geological structure and the diversion of ancient river channels. The Xuanwu Lake lowland was formed by four major faulting events near Xuanwu Lake: the Zhongshan (Purple Mountain) thrust fault, the Tianbaocheng fault, the Fuguishan fault, and the Taipingmen fault. While the first three faults were indirectly linked to the formation of the Xuanwu Lake lowland, the fourth was directly linked. The Taipingmen fault, which plunged its western flank downward, created the Xuanwu Lake lowland and allowed water to accumulate and form the lake. Therefore, scholars Bi Qingchang and Wang Jianxiang believe that Xuanwu Lake is a natural lake, formed in the middle Tertiary. However, Professor Li Liwen of Nanjing Normal University believes that the origin of Xuanwu Lake requires a comprehensive analysis of geological structure, lithology, and human influence. For example, the Xuanwu Lake area lies at the tectonic boundary between the Ningzhen and Ningwu regions, at the ventral end of the Zhongshan-Mufushan complex syncline. This zone is characterized by a crisscrossing fault system, forming a fractured zone. Within this fractured zone, igneous intrusions developed through weathering and erosion, forming a river and forming the original lake basin. Due to the accumulation of silt, after millions of years of erosion, it gradually dissolved into a low-lying area with accumulated water, forming a lake. The lake then spread outwards, eroding the surrounding area with waves, and the area continued to expand, eventually giving birth to Xuanwu Lake.
Worth a Visit
The Experience of a Xuanwu Lake Boat Cruise: A boat cruise on Xuanwu Lake feels like walking through a painting, with a gentle breeze and the fragrance of lotus flowers wafting through the air. It's a breathtaking experience, a journey of total relaxation, all cares fading away.
In summer, Xuanwu Lake is blanketed in endless lotus leaves, dotted with pink lotus blossoms. The fragrance of lotus flowers wafts through the air, creating an intoxicatingly fresh and refreshing atmosphere. We boarded the boat in the cool evening breeze. The boat slowly pulled away from the dock, the gentle sound of oars pushing against the water, rippling the surface like silver. Looking around, in the distance, the lush green mountains of Zijin Mountain, the ancient and uninterrupted Ming Dynasty City Wall, the swaying shadows of the Jiming Temple pagoda, and modern skyscrapers like the Zifeng Tower intertwined with the ancient charm. This juxtaposition of past and present is truly captivating, a scene that invites one to unwind. As the boat sails, the gentle breeze, mingled with moisture, brushes against my face with a refreshing touch. As the boat rises and falls, the lake shimmers under the sunlight or starlight, and time seems to slow down.
The scenery along the way is full of surprises. Lotuses budded pink, tiny dragonflies flitted lightly across the water, and schools of small fish occasionally frolicked beneath the lotus leaves, creating tiny splashes. As we passed Cuihong Dike, the rockery waterfall, and the pavilions of Liangzhou Island, our guide recounted historical stories—the poetic beauty of Li Bai's "Moon Reflected in the Back Lake" and the legend of Guo Pu's Immortal Mound—the cultural charm quietly permeated our hearts. On a night cruise, when the lights are on, the shimmering light of stars, neon lights, and the water blends beautifully, creating a scene as if floating above a galaxy. The melody of flutes from the pavilion in the center of the lake creates a romantic atmosphere that makes one forget the hustle and bustle of life.
Time on the boat was even more enjoyable. Our family laughed and played, the children excitedly pointed in the distance, and we played idiom chain games, our laughter filling the breeze. Occasionally, I'd try my hand at steering, and with a single turn of the wheel, the boat would swiftly maneuver, startling my family with exclamations of surprise, only to be met with laughter all around the boat. When we were hungry, we shared our own snacks, the coolness and delicious flavors seeming to enhance the joy. After disembarking and reflecting on the experience, I still felt a sense of expansiveness, my body and soul thoroughly cleansed by the gentleness of the lake.
This experience not only allowed me to linger in the beauty of the scenery, but also allowed me to find the joy of life in a moment of tranquility. A cruise on Xuanwu Lake is a poetic journey of both body and soul.
No.
5
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Yuejiang Tower
4.7
/5
5059 reviews
6.6
From BRL 7.42
Based on 72 reviews
Hexi/Golden Eagle World/Wanda Plaza | 6.7 km from downtown
Phone +8602558590298
Address: No.202,Jianning Road, Xiaguan District, Nanjing
Recommended sightseeing time: 1-3 hours
No. 12 of Best Things to Do in Nanjing
Saved by 344 users2550 positive reviews
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Nanjing's Yuejiang Tower, located atop Lion Mountain on the south bank of the Yangtze River, is a national 4A-level tourist attraction. Construction began in 1374, and it became famous for Zhu Yuanzhang's "Yuejiang Tower Record." It opened in 2001. Standing 52 meters tall, it boasts seven floors, four exterior floors and three underground. It exudes a distinctly Ming Dynasty imperial style and offers stunning views of the Yangtze River and Jinling. It's a must-see for not only a deeper understanding of history but also panoramic views of Nanjing!
Lazy route: Enter from the south gate, admire the stone lions along the way, go up to the building to visit the "Yuejiang Tower Record" pavilion and the Ming Dynasty emperors, go downstairs to visit the back garden, and finally exit the scenic area from the east gate.
In-depth tour route: Enter from the south gate, see the bronze relief of "Shiling Xiongguan" and the Shizishan Yuejiang Tower tripod, take the elevator to the mountainside after ticket inspection and then go upstairs. See Zhu Yuanzhang's dragon throne and Kangxi's golden plaque on the first floor, see the portraits of Ming Dynasty emperors on the second floor, see the giant porcelain painting of Zheng He's voyages to the West on the third floor, rest on the fourth and fifth floors, go downstairs to visit the white marble stele, ancient artillery, etc., and exit the scenic area from the east gate.
No.
6
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Nanjing Happy Valley
4.5
/5
1773 reviews
6.4
From BRL 140.80
Xingang Development Zone | 24.2 km from downtown
Phone +8602583091666
Address: 江苏省南京市栖霞区经济技术开发区欢乐谷北路8号
Recommended sightseeing time: 0.5-1 day
No. 7 of Family-Friendly Attractions in Nanjing
Saved by 304 users1557 positive reviews
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Super good, the ticket price is great, the project can be brushed twice or three times a day, the service is very good, the consumption is low, suitable for students, families and children to travel, the evening program is also very rich, the NPC is so handsome that it makes people daydream
Although it rained when I went there in the morning, it cleared up later. I played a few projects, but they were too exciting and I didn’t dare to play more. My body couldn’t handle it. The scenic area is very large and it’s a bit tiring to walk. Overall, it’s still very good and worth a visit.
No.
7
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The Garden Expo Park
4.4
/5
1082 reviews
6.3
Tangshan Hot Spring Resort | 21.8 km from downtown
Phone +8602552766789
Address: 江苏省南京市江宁区汤山街道圣湖路8号
Recommended sightseeing time: 0.5-1 day
No. 10 of Family-Friendly Attractions in Nanjing
Saved by 177 users908 positive reviews
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The Jiangsu Garden Expo Park is a dance of time and craftsmanship. A former mining pit has been transformed into a cliffside garden, with a glass plank walkway suspended at the edge. Beneath the emerald waters, above, lush greenery graces the landscape. Thirteen urban gardens, each showcasing its own unique charm, showcase Su-style pavilions and Hui-style black tiles. Cherry blossoms scatter along the path in spring, and the fragrance of osmanthus permeates the garden in autumn. Step through the charm of Jiangnan, and gaze through the emotions of the past and present.
The overall environment and design style of the hotel are good. You can also take a hot spring bath in the courtyard, which makes people feel quiet and relaxed. The staff are very professional, especially Miss Yana, who is super nice and helps us properly handle related issues.
No.
8
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Jinling Xiaocheng
4.5
/5
444 reviews
6.1
From BRL 35.95
Niushou Mountain/Ginkgo Lake Park | 17 km from downtown
Phone +864001659090
Address: 南京市江宁区牛首大道199-1号
Recommended sightseeing time: 0.5-1 day
No. 12 of Family-Friendly Attractions in Nanjing
Highlights:
Night immersive Nanjing show
Combination of ancient architecture & morden lighting
Saved by 201 users385 positive reviews
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This is a small attraction I've always wanted to visit. It's very close to Yangzhou, less than an hour and a half away. The night view is particularly beautiful. It's not a large area, so I walked around quickly, watched a show, and had snacks. There's a nice jewelry store with beautiful designs, and I bought a necklace. The entrance fee is ¥50, which is a bit out of place; ¥20-¥30 is more reasonable. If you're visiting Niu Shou Mountain during the day, you can stop by here at night; there's no need to make a special trip!
A beautiful places to take pictures and enjoy the on-site scheduled shows.
No.
9
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The Legend of Yangtze RIver of Nanjing
4.8
/5
1225 reviews
6.1
From BRL 14.98
Nanjing Railway Station/Hongshan Forest Zoo | 9.5 km from downtown
Phone +8602586551688
Address: No. 18 Yongji Avenue, Gulou District, Nanjing
Recommended sightseeing time: 2 hours
No. 11 of Family-Friendly Attractions in Nanjing
Highlights:
Sunshine bar: drinks & snacks
Yangtze River night views & overlook landmarks
Saved by 181 users1180 positive reviews
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The price is a bit high, and the tables on the 2nd to 4th floors are not cheap either. But the overall experience is good, and the time is long enough. I was a little excited when I crossed the Yangtze River Bridge. The river view at dusk is also very good.
Before boarding, let your child preview the second-grade text "Nanjing Yangtze River Bridge"!
Choose a seat on the open-air deck on the 3rd floor, and watch the train and car passing through the bridge hole in parallel. It's super shocking🚢.
There is a bridge science exhibition in the cabin, and collecting stamps for postcards is super rewarding~
No.
10
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Xinjiekou
4.7
/5
589 reviews
5.9
Xinjiekou Area/Presidential Palace | 253m from downtown
Address: Xinjiekou Commercial Pedestrian Area, Central Shopping Mall, No. 79 Zhongshan South Road, Qinhuai District, Nanjing
Recommended sightseeing time: 1-2 hours
Highlights:
Various bars | Snacks & BBQ
Many large malls | Lively shopping district
Saved by 220 users388 positive reviews
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As "China's No. 1 Shopping District," it's densely populated with over ten large shopping malls, including Deji Plaza and Central Emporium, offering a wide range of formats, from luxury brands to trendy fast-moving consumer goods. Deji Plaza consistently ranks among the top shopping malls nationwide in terms of sales, and boasts popular check-in spots like its "10-million-dollar luxury toilet." Oriental Friendly offers a retro neighborhood and niche boutiques, catering to diverse consumer needs.
History and Culture: The Sun Yat-sen statue, located at the intersection, is a landmark of Xinjiekou, bearing witness to Nanjing's century-long transformation. Furthermore, unique Republican-era architecture, such as the former site of the Great Hall of the People, can be found tucked away in the streets and alleys, along with other historic buildings like the former Nanjing Branch of the Bank of Communications. This blends history and modernity.
Dining: It's a foodie paradise, home to time-honored eateries like the Nanjing Dapaidang, offering a one-stop experience of classic Nanjing flavors like duck blood vermicelli soup. Snack streets like Mingwalang and Fuqiang Road are beloved by locals, and Xiangji Noodle House's pig belly noodles are a must-try. Influenced brands like Cha Yan Yue Se are also popular here. Convenient transportation: Xinjiekou Metro Station is one of the largest metro stations in Asia. Line 1 and Line 2 intersect here, making it very convenient to travel to attractions such as Confucius Temple and the Presidential Palace, providing great convenience for tourists.

Today, Xinjiekou is teeming with high-rises. Aside from a few old Republican-era buildings, there's no trace of the Xinjiekou of the 1960s and 1970s. Back then, most Xinjiekou consisted of two- or three-story buildings, with only a handful of five- or six-story structures, and the tallest no more than seven. Yet, Xinjiekou was bustling, with crowds of shoppers jostling for position on holidays, creating a unique charm. From the early 1960s to the late 1970s (before the construction of the Jinling Hotel), the Xinjiekou area experienced some development and changes, but overall, remained largely unchanged, maintaining its overall layout for at least 50 years. By the late 20th and early 21st centuries, urban development accelerated, significantly altering the streetscape and alleyways surrounding Xinjiekou's main thoroughfares. The Xinjiekou of yesteryear can only be traced in memory.
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