Unforgettable Nanjing 3 Days Tour: From War Echoes to Peaceful Temples and Bustling Alleys

Summary

Day 1 Nanjing: Nanjing Massacre Memorial Hall, Presidential Palace, Yuejiang Tower
Day 2 Nanjing: Niushou Mountain, The Confucius Temple
Day 3 Nanjing: Dr. Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum, Ming Xiaoling, Zhonghua Gate & Ming Dynasty City Wall, Lao Men Dong

Day 1 Nanjing

Upon your arrival in Nanjing, your guide and driver will be waiting for you at the hotel lobby or the exit of Nanjing High-Speed Railway Station, holding a sign that reads 'Your Way Holiday.' Your 3-day Nanjing tour will begin from there.

You will begin your tour at the Nanjing Massacre Memorial Hall, a solemn site dedicated to honoring the memory of the victims of the 1937 Nanjing Massacre. Located in the heart of Nanjing, this memorial stands as a powerful symbol of the immense tragedy that unfolded during the Japanese invasion. The hall is divided into several exhibition areas, each filled with photographs, personal testimonies, and historical artifacts that vividly capture the suffering of the innocent civilians and soldiers who perished. One of the most moving sections is the Hall of Silence, where visitors can reflect on the profound loss and pay their respects. As you explore the exhibits, your guide will provide in-depth historical context and share poignant stories, helping you understand the broader impact of this atrocity on both China and the world. The visit offers a deep, reflective experience, paying tribute to those lost, while also emphasizing the importance of peace, remembrance, and the resilience of the Chinese people in the face of such unimaginable tragedy.

After exploring the historical sites of Nanjing, it will be time to enjoy a delicious lunch. Nanjing is famous for its rich culinary heritage, and you will have the opportunity to taste some of the city's signature dishes. A popular choice is Nanjing's famous salted duck, known for its tender meat and fragrant flavors, often paired with steamed buns and pickled vegetables. You can also savor other local specialties, such as Nanjing-style dumplings, hot and sour soup, and the renowned duck blood soup. During lunch, you'll experience the flavors of traditional Nanjing cuisine, which blends local ingredients with ancient recipes passed down through generations. Your guide will introduce the unique flavors and ingredients used in these dishes, making it a memorable culinary experience that complements the cultural richness of the city.

After lunch, you will visit the Presidential Palace, an iconic site that has played a significant role in Chinese history. Once the official residence of the President of the Republic of China, this grand complex now serves as a museum showcasing Nanjing's historical and political significance. The Presidential Palace is a blend of traditional Chinese and Western architectural styles, reflecting the fusion of cultures during the late Qing Dynasty and early Republic period. As you stroll through the expansive grounds, you’ll encounter well-preserved buildings, including the main presidential office, the reception hall, and the former imperial gardens, which provide a serene contrast to the historical events that took place here. Your guide will provide insights into the history of the palace, explaining its role during the tumultuous period of the Republic, its significance in modern Chinese history, and its importance in shaping the political landscape of China. The site offers a fascinating glimpse into the political and cultural shifts that influenced the country in the early 20th century.

Finally, we will head to Yuejiang Tower, a majestic historical site perched atop Lion Mountain with commanding views of the Yangtze River. Originally commissioned by Emperor Zhu Yuanzhang, the founder of the Ming Dynasty, the tower symbolizes military triumph and imperial authority. Though the original structure was never completed in his time, the current tower faithfully reflects traditional Ming architecture, with multi-tiered eaves, vibrant red pillars, and ornate details that convey the grandeur of the era. As you ascend the tower, you’ll enjoy sweeping views of the river, the city skyline, and the surrounding hills—making it one of Nanjing’s top scenic spots. Inside, exhibitions highlight Nanjing’s role during the early Ming period, featuring calligraphy, historical accounts, and cultural relics. Your guide will explain the strategic and symbolic importance of this site, offering insight into how Yuejiang Tower embodies the fusion of military power and cultural ambition in imperial China. This visit is not only a visual highlight, but also a meaningful journey into the city’s rich political and architectural heritage.

After finished, our tour guide will take you back to your hotel.

Day 2 Nanjing

In the morning, our tour guide will pick you up at your hotel lobby, and your tour will begin with a visit to Niushou Mountain (Ox Mountain), one of the most renowned cultural and scenic spots in Nanjing. Niushou Mountain is celebrated for its rich history, breathtaking natural beauty, and deep connection to Buddhist culture. The mountain is home to the Niushou Mountain Cultural Park and the impressive Niushou Mountain Buddhist Complex, which together create a serene environment filled with temples, statues, and traditional architecture that evoke a sense of peace and tranquility. The highlight of the visit is the grand Niushou Mountain Buddha, a massive statue that symbolizes spiritual enlightenment, standing proudly as a symbol of faith and devotion. From the top of the mountain, you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of lush forests, peaceful valleys, and the surrounding landscape, offering a serene escape from the city. As you explore, your guide will provide fascinating insights into the history and cultural significance of Niushou Mountain, sharing stories of its Buddhist heritage, its role in Chinese spiritual life, and the enduring importance of the site, ensuring a truly immersive and enriching experience.

For lunch, you will enjoy a peaceful vegetarian meal at a local restaurant near Niushoushan. The menu features a variety of fresh, seasonal dishes such as braised tofu, stir-fried wild mushrooms, lotus root soup, and steamed vegetable dumplings—simple yet flavorful, reflecting the Buddhist culinary tradition and the serene atmosphere of the mountain.

Next, we will visit the Confucius Temple (Fuzimiao), one of Nanjing’s most renowned cultural landmarks, located along the scenic Qinhuai River. Originally built in the Song Dynasty, the temple honors Confucius, the great philosopher whose teachings have shaped Chinese ethics, education, and governance for over two millennia. As you walk through the temple complex, you will be immersed in an atmosphere of tradition and reverence, surrounded by elegant courtyards, stone carvings, and red-walled halls that reflect classical Chinese architecture.

At the heart of the complex lies the Dacheng Hall, or “Hall of Great Achievement,” the most important structure within the temple. This grand hall houses a large statue of Confucius and is adorned with plaques and calligraphy reflecting his core teachings. Your guide will share the historical and philosophical background of Confucianism, helping you understand how this ancient belief system continues to influence modern Chinese society. Beyond the temple, the surrounding Fuzimiao district offers a vibrant local experience, with traditional shops, lantern-lit alleys, and riverside charm.

After your tour ends, drive you back to your hotel.

Day 3 Nanjing

After breakfast, continue your Nanjing tour with a visit to the Memorial Hall of the Victims in Nanjing Massacre. This powerful and solemn site is one of the most significant historical landmarks in modern Chinese history, dedicated to the memory of the over 300,000 civilians and unarmed soldiers who lost their lives during the Nanjing Massacre of 1937. The memorial stands as a symbol of national remembrance, peace, and a commitment to never forget the tragedies of war.

The museum complex includes sculptures, historical documents, survivor testimonies, and haunting photographic evidence that convey the scale and brutality of the atrocities committed. Designed with a minimalist and respectful architectural style, the memorial evokes deep reflection through its somber atmosphere and symbolic spaces, such as the “Grief Wall” and the pit of buried remains. As you walk through the exhibits, your guide will provide essential historical context and share stories of resilience and humanity amid tragedy. This visit offers a moving and educational experience that deepens your understanding of China’s modern history and the importance of peace and remembrance.

For lunch, savor a variety of traditional Nanjing dishes at a local restaurant, featuring flavorful braised pork, stir-fried seasonal vegetables, and refreshing cold noodles. The meal highlights the city’s balance of rich and light flavors, offering a satisfying and authentic culinary experience.

Later, move on to the Presidential Palace, one of the most important historical and political landmarks in Nanjing. The Presidential Palace served as the office and residence of many Chinese leaders throughout modern history, including the late Qing Dynasty, the Republic of China, and the early People's Republic period. This grand complex is an outstanding example of a blend between traditional Chinese and Western architectural styles, reflecting the changing tides of China’s political and cultural landscape.

The palace grounds feature elegant gardens, spacious halls, and a variety of historical buildings that once witnessed key events in China’s modern history. Walking through the carefully preserved corridors and rooms, you can sense the profound significance of the site as a center of power and decision-making. Your guide will share fascinating stories and insights about the palace’s role in shaping China’s political evolution, helping you appreciate the rich heritage and legacy that it represents.

Lastly, we will head to Yuejiang Tower, a majestic landmark overlooking the Yangtze River and situated on Lion Mountain. As one of Nanjing’s most iconic historical sites, Yuejiang Tower offers visitors stunning panoramic views of the river, the city skyline, and the surrounding landscapes. Originally commissioned by Emperor Zhu Yuanzhang, the founder of the Ming Dynasty, the tower symbolizes the strength and ambition of imperial China. The current structure is a faithful reconstruction, showcasing traditional Ming Dynasty architectural features such as multi-tiered eaves, vibrant red pillars, and intricate decorative details.

The area around Yuejiang Tower is peaceful and scenic, providing a perfect contrast to the bustling city below. As you explore the tower and its grounds, your guide will share fascinating stories about its historical significance, its role in Ming military strategy, and its symbolic meaning in Chinese culture. This visit offers not only breathtaking views but also a deeper understanding of Nanjing’s rich heritage and enduring legacy.

After the tour ends, drive you to your hotel in Nanjing or Nanjing train station. 

Price Per Person in US Dollars