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Best Things to Do
Top 20 Best Things to Do in Nanjing [2025]
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Niushou Mountain Cultural Tourism Zone
4.7
/5
27097 reviews
8.7
From AU$ 31.03
Niushou Mountain/Ginkgo Lake Park | 15.7 km from downtown
Phone +864001656363
Address: No. 18 Ningdan Avenue, Jiangning District, Nanjing
Recommended sightseeing time: 0.5-1 day
No. 8 of Fall Viewing Attractions in Nanjing
Highlights:
The Reclining Buddha statue wall in Usnisa Palace is breathtaking
Breathtaking Buddha statue wall
Saved by 1895 users21996 positive reviews
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A trip to Niu Shou Mountain was a feast for both the eyes and the soul, a feast I still cherish.
The moment I set foot in the scenic area, the natural scenery of Niu Shou Mountain captivated me. Here, peaks and peaks, shaded by verdant trees, and the rippling emerald waters of Yinlong Lake complement the surrounding mountains, creating a breathtaking landscape painting. In autumn, the leaves of trees like ginkgo and red maple gradually change color, blending golden and fiery red, as if nature has overturned its palette.
Niu Shou Mountain's cultural heritage is even more profound. As the birthplace of the Niutou Zen sect of Buddhism, it boasts numerous stunning Buddhist buildings. The Buddha's Head Palace is a masterpiece of architectural art, its exterior resembling a vast "lotus throne." Its interior comprises a grand Zen temple above ground and a six-story underground palace. The underground palace houses the skull relic of Sakyamuni Buddha. The domed Thousand Buddha Hall, inlaid with sapphires, and the 360-degree rotating shrine shimmers with golden light, immersing one in a sacred Buddhist world. The Buddha's Head Pagoda, a nine-story, four-sided, Tang Dynasty-style wooden pagoda, stands 88 meters tall. From the summit, visitors can enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of Niu Shou Mountain and the Nanjing intercity railway.
The scenic area is well-equipped with amenities, including sightseeing buses that facilitate easy travel between attractions. The dining area offers a wide variety of delicious dishes, from vegetarian Dongpo pork and mushroom soup in the vegetarian restaurant to duck blood vermicelli soup and plum blossom cakes in the East Gate Snack Street.
Overall, while Niu Shou Mountain's entrance fee is relatively high, it's definitely worth the price. It seamlessly blends natural beauty with profound cultural heritage, allowing visitors to enjoy both picturesque scenery and the solemnity and sacredness of Buddhist culture. It's a highly recommended travel experience.
Niu Shou Mountain is truly a scenic spot in Jinling. The Buddha's Crown Palace boasts magnificent architecture, the underground palace is exquisite, and the sacred relic site offers a tranquil retreat. Its seamless fusion of natural beauty and Zen philosophy creates a Buddhist art sanctuary that combines both scenic beauty and cultural depth.
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Nanjing Hongshan Forest Zoo
4.6
/5
18306 reviews
8.3
From AU$ 8.56
Nanjing Railway Station/Hongshan Forest Zoo | 5.8 km from downtown
Phone +8602585620178
Address: No.168 Heyan Road, Xuanwu District, Nanjing
Recommended sightseeing time: 0.5-1 day
Featured in 2025 Asia 100 - Family-Friendly Attractions
Highlights:
37 exhibits & diverse animals
Close encounter with Dudu (Monk monkey)
Saved by 557 users12683 positive reviews
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The zoo is very close to the Xuanwu Lake Scenic Area. It is a large park that is still under expansion as the terrain rises. Therefore, some places were under construction this time. There are sightseeing trams (15 yuan one way) and parent-child electric cars for rent. If you have limited physical strength or are traveling with the elderly and children, you can consider using them. There are rich amusement facilities and convenient transportation. The ticket price is still 40 yuan, which is very cost-effective.
I went to Hongshan Zoo purely to check out what this popular zoo has to offer, but ended up being completely lost in the action. If I hadn't had an afternoon schedule, I could have spent the entire day there.
For those who struggle with walking but want to explore the entire zoo, I recommend renting a car.
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Zhongshan Mountain National Park
4.6
/5
9705 reviews
7.8
Zijin Mountain Scenic Area/Sun Yat-sen's Mausoleum Area | 6.2 km from downtown
Phone +8602584437786
Address: No. 7 Shixiang Road, Xuanwu District, Nanjing
Recommended sightseeing time: 1-2 days
No. 2 of Family-Friendly Attractions in Nanjing
Highlights:
Unique astronomical observation experience
Overlooking Jongsan (Ropeway)
Saved by 827 users6543 positive reviews
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The area inside is very large and the scenery is pretty good, but the only things you can really see are Ming Xiaoling and the Shinto Road. The rest are man-made attractions, and the ticket price is only worth forty or fifty yuan at most.
The former residence of the President of the National Government, commonly known as the Meiling Palace, is located at No. 9 Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum, Xuanwu District, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province. Built in 1931, it served as one of the Nanjing residences of President Chiang Kai-shek and his wife, Soong Mei-ling.
The former residence covers an area of 80,000 square meters, with a construction area of over 2,000 square meters. It comprises a main building, a guardhouse, a garage, and a garden. The main structure, facing north and south, is three stories high and includes a basement. Modeled after traditional Chinese palace architecture, it embodies a blend of Chinese and Western design concepts. It is the largest single villa in Nanjing during the Republican era and one of the most complete surviving Republican-era villas, possessing high historical and artistic value.
On June 25, 2001, the former National Government Site, including the former residence, was designated by the State Council of the People's Republic of China as a fifth-batch National Key Cultural Relics Protection Site.
In 1930, Chiang Kai-shek formally proposed to the Premier's Mausoleum Management Committee the construction of a villa on Xiaohongshan Hill within the mausoleum. On October 24 of the same year, the Mausoleum Management Committee held its 24th meeting, chaired by Sun Ke, and resolved to "do as instructed."
In 1931, construction began on the Xiaohongshan Villa. Designed by Zhao Zhiyou, Director of the Nanjing Municipal Government's Public Works Bureau, Chen Pinshan, Chief Engineer, and built by the Xinjinjikanghao Construction Company, the estimated cost was 261,410 yuan.
In 1932, the Xiaohongshan Villa was completed and designated as the official residence of the President of the National Government.
In 1934, the official residence of the President of the National Government was converted to the Xiaohongshan Official Residence, serving as a resting place for senior officials visiting the Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum.
In 1947, after the National Government returned its capital to Nanjing, the Xiaohongshan Official Residence became Chiang Kai-shek's official residence. Chiang Kai-shek and Soong Mei-ling often visited the residence to rest, worship, and vacation, earning it the nickname "Meiling Palace." In 1950, the former residence of the President of the National Government was taken over by the Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum Administration as public property and converted into a sanatorium for senior cadres of Jiangsu Province. In 1951, the former residence of the President of the National Government was converted into a sanatorium for cadres directly under the Nanjing Municipal Government, and later into the Dongjiao Hotel. On September 1, 1990, the former residence of the President of the National Government was merged into the Jinling Hotel by the Jiangsu Provincial Tourism Bureau. In March 2012, the former residence of the President of the National Government was re-assigned to the management of the Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum Administration [4].
No.
4
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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:
Confucius Temple & Academy Complex
Chinese Imperial Examination Museum in Nanjing
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!
No.
5
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Grand Baoen Temple Heritage and Scenic Area
4.7
/5
8330 reviews
7.5
From AU$ 16.91
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. 2 of Night Attractions in Nanjing
Highlights:
78.2m-high Glass Pagoda
China's second Buddhist temple
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.
No.
6
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Nanjing Museum
4.6
/5
3404 reviews
7.3
Based on 337 reviews
The Ming Palace and Nanjing Museum Area | 3.9 km from downtown
Phone +8602584807923
Address: No. 321, Zhongshan East Road, Xuanwu District, Nanjing
Recommended sightseeing time: 3-5 hours
Featured in 2024 Asia 100 - Family-Friendly Attractions
Highlights:
Nanjing Museum stamp & street view
The Silver Witch Hazel (Treasure-holding)
Saved by 814 users1881 positive reviews
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Is it worth going? Nanjing Museum is definitely worth your special trip to make a half-day! As one of the earliest comprehensive museums created in China, its huge collection system, distinctive special exhibitions and unique cloth exhibition ideas will take you through a journey spanning hundreds of thousands of years. Whether for history lovers or ordinary tourists, this is an indispensable hall for Nanjing. Highlights one by one: the "Treasure of the Town Courtyard" in the historical museum: step into this main exhibition hall, and the long river of time slowly opens. The majesty of the Bronze Age (the bronze of the West Zhou Dynasty is the sage), the magnificent burial ceremony of the Han Dynasty (the silver wisp of the still radiant jade coat), the wind bones of the famous people of the Southern Dynasty (the lifelike "Bamboo Forest Seven Xian and Rong Qiqi Period" molded brick painting)...every treasure is like a star to embellish the long river of Chinese civilization. The art gallery's calligraphy and painting feast: For calligraphy and painting fans, this is a paradise. The authentic paintings and paintings of the Ming and Qing Dynasties on regular displays are breathtaking, and the oriental aesthetics conveyed by delicate brush strokes are still alive in time. Time flow in the Republic of China Pavilion: step into this re-engraved exhibition hall in the Republic of China block and "cross" in an instant. The railway station, post office, foreign banks, old teahouses, and real old objects create a sense of living and fragrant atmosphere. Every shot is a blockbuster of the times, immersed in it to experience the floating light of Jinling's old dreams. The living heritage of non-legacy: the charm of Jiangsu's native non-legacy blooms here. The exquisite Su embroidery, elegant and pleasant purple sand, the gentle singing of Kunqu... You can immerse yourself in the live pulse and life temperature of traditional culture.
The Nanjing Museum, one of China's three major museums, boasts a rich historical heritage. Its "one academy and six museums," each with its own distinct characteristics, boasts a rich and diverse collection of cultural relics covering a wide range of fields. Its unique architectural style blends tradition with modernity. Here, visitors can journey through time and space to experience the charm of history and culture, a vital venue for the inheritance and promotion of Chinese culture.
No.
7
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Nanjing Presidential Palace
4.7
/5
57552 reviews
7.3
Based on 813 reviews
Xinjiekou Area/Presidential Palace | 1.3 km from downtown
Phone +8602584578888
Address: No. 292, Changjiang Road, Xuanwu District, Nanjing
Recommended sightseeing time: 2-3 hours
Highlights:
Classical garden beauty & tranquility
Combines Chinese & Western elements
Saved by 743 users32601 positive reviews
Verified user reviews
The Presidential Palace, a grand palace, feels like home. The location is excellent. Metro lines 2 and 3 run through the area. The Presidential Palace 1912 is right next to it. The Jiming Temple and Xuanwu Lake are also nearby. Nanjing is truly stunning.
[Scenery]
The Presidential Palace is where Mr. Sun Yat-sen worked and lived. It is fully functional and a classic attraction that must be visited in Nanjing. It is very suitable for bringing children to learn about history and increase their knowledge. The entire park is relatively large, so it is recommended that you reserve more time to visit it in detail.
No.
8
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The Oriental Metropolitan Museum
4.6
/5
4254 reviews
7.2
From AU$ 5.78
Based on 22 reviews
Xinjiekou Area/Presidential Palace | 1.5 km from downtown
Phone +8602552326032
Address: No. 302, Changjiang Road, Xuanwu District, Nanjing
Recommended sightseeing time: 2-3 hours
No. 4 of Family-Friendly Attractions in Nanjing
Highlights:
Designed by Mr. Bei Jianzhong | 4 exhibition halls
Archaeological excavation activities
Saved by 231 users3105 positive reviews
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There are many museums in Nanjing. I went to this museum on a whim. It has rich content and a quiet environment. I also experienced the AR explanation, which is at the forefront of technology. It was more comfortable with fewer people and the experience was strong.
The Six Dynasties Museum is renowned for its unique design and sophisticated exhibition layout. Its exhibitions not only showcase artifacts from the Six Dynasties period but also recreate the elegant atmosphere of the period through modern design techniques. The museum's use of light and shadow and spatial design are particularly outstanding, creating a sense of transporting back to an era of literati and scholars.
No.
9
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Jiming Temple
4.4
/5
1699 reviews
7.0
Based on 285 reviews
Xuanwu Lake Scenic Area/Jiming Temple | 2.4 km from downtown
Phone +8602557715595
Address: No. 1, Jimingsi Road, Xuanwu District, Nanjing
Recommended sightseeing time: 1-2 hours
No. 10 of Fall Viewing Attractions in Nanjing
Highlights:
Cherry blossoms & lotus views
Filming site of Legend & White Snake
Saved by 471 users642 positive reviews
Verified user reviews
Jiming Temple is very good and beautiful, but remember! ...
Nanjing Jiming Temple is located on Jilong Mountain by Xuanwu Lake. You can pray, check in, enjoy the scenery, and try out delicious food. It is said to be very popular. Going up the steps of Jiming Temple, you can see the beautiful scenery of the entire city of Nanjing and feel the cultural charm and historical heritage of the ancient capital. You can take photos of Jiming Temple and Zifeng Tower in the same frame in many places. One is ancient and the other is modern, and history intersects, spanning time and space. It is really shocking.
No.
10
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Qixia Mountain Scenic Area
4.7
/5
5781 reviews
7.0
From AU$ 10.27
Based on 73 reviews
Xingang Development Zone | 21.4 km from downtown
Phone +8602585766979
Address: No.88 Qixia Street, Qixia District, Nanjing
Recommended sightseeing time: 2-4 hours
Featured in 2025 Global 50 - Fall Viewing Attractions
Highlights:
Famous for maple views (Autumn)
Birthplace of Sanlun Sect of Buddhism
Saved by 381 users4574 positive reviews
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In short: Qixia Mountain is a must-see in Nanjing, famous for its vibrant crimson leaves. However, it offers something to see in all seasons and is well worth a visit.
Key Highlights
- 🍁 Autumn Red Foliage (late October to early December)
- This is Qixia Mountain's trump card. Trees like sweetgum, red maple, and Japanese maple paint the entire mountain a vibrant crimson, creating a breathtaking spectacle.
- Tip: The best viewing period is usually mid-to-late November, so it's recommended to check the scenic area's red foliage forecast in advance.
- 🏯 Thousand-Year-Old Temple - Qixia Temple
- One of China's Four Great Temples, it boasts a long history and a vibrant pilgrimage. The temple boasts ancient and majestic architecture, making it a great place to experience Buddhist culture and history.
- 🪨 Stone Carvings - Thousand Buddha Rocks
- Located behind Qixia Temple, this is a collection of Buddhist stone carvings from the Southern Dynasties period. Despite its age, the exquisite craftsmanship of its time is still evident, making it of great historical value.
Visit Suggestions
- Best Times: Autumn to see the crimson leaves, spring to see the peach blossoms, summer to escape the heat, and winter to enjoy the snowy scenery.
- Recommended Routes:
- Classic Route: Scenic Area Main Gate → Qixia Temple → Thousand Buddha Rock → Stupa → Climb to see the crimson leaves → Descend.
- Easy Route: For those with moderate stamina, you can just visit the Qixia Temple and Thousand Buddha Rock area at the foot of the mountain, which is equally enjoyable.
- Admission: 25 yuan in the off-season (December-February), 40 yuan in the peak season (March-November).
In short, Qixia Mountain is a wonderful destination that combines natural scenery, historical culture, and Buddhist art.
You mentioned that the crimson leaves in autumn are Qixia Mountain's trump card. Would you like me to help you plan a complete itinerary for a day trip in autumn? I can arrange transportation, the best hiking trails, photo spots, and nearby food to make your trip more worry-free.
The autumn scenery at Qixia Mountain is truly breathtaking and should not be missed! It's a pleasant walk while admiring the autumn scenery, and transportation is convenient. A taxi there is not expensive, and a taxi back is also easy to get.
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