Tranquil Nanjing 1 Day Tour: Buddhist Temples, Forest Walks & Mindful Moments

Tour Itinerary

Your day begins as our professional English-speaking guide warmly welcomes you in the lobby of your Nanjing hotel, holding a sign that reads “Your Way Holiday.” Step into a journey of spiritual serenity and natural beauty as you travel by private vehicle to the enchanting Linggu Temple, hidden within the lush embrace of Purple Mountain’s ancient forest. Known as “the first Zen forest under heaven,” Linggu Temple offers a tranquil retreat where timeless Buddhist architecture harmonizes with whispering pines and gentle mountain breezes.

Your first destination is the serene Linggu Temple, nestled deep within the emerald embrace of Purple Mountain. Known as “the first Zen forest under heaven,” this sacred temple complex is more than a place of worship—it’s a living testament to the harmony between nature and spirituality. As you wander through peaceful temple halls, shaded by centuries-old pine trees, marvel at the Linggu Pagoda, rising gracefully through the forest canopy. The pagoda’s octagonal structure offers a breathtaking contrast against the blue sky and green surroundings, and as you approach it, you’ll feel a palpable shift into calm and contemplation.

Your guide will walk you through the temple’s fascinating past, from its origins in the Liang Dynasty to its present-day significance. You’ll pass through the famous Beamless Hall, constructed entirely without wooden beams, and explore the tranquil courtyards where monks once meditated beneath rustling bamboo. Along shaded paths, the air carries the subtle scent of incense and pine, while birdsong and distant temple bells compose a natural soundtrack that invites reflection. You may take a few minutes for a silent walk or mindful breathing practice, surrounded by the quiet strength of this forested retreat.

Next, continue your journey through the surrounding Purple Mountain forest, following a gentle trail that winds through ancient trees and soft moss-covered stones. The forest here is not only a place of beauty but a natural monastery, where every step feels intentional and every view encourages inward reflection. As you ascend gently through the trees, the landscape opens up to reveal panoramic views of Nanjing, where old city walls, lakes, and rooftops form a peaceful mosaic below. This trail is perfect for light hiking, photography, or simply inhaling the crisp, pine-scented mountain air—an experience that nourishes both body and spirit.

At midday, pause for a quiet and restorative vegetarian lunch at a secluded tea house at the mountain’s foot. Inspired by Buddhist culinary philosophy, this meal is a celebration of simplicity, purity, and seasonal ingredients. You’ll be served a variety of light yet flavorful dishes: fragrant tofu and shiitake mushroom stew, lotus root stir-fry, steamed mountain greens, and mixed grains, accompanied by delicate herbal teas sourced from nearby hillsides. The setting—wooden beams, calligraphy scrolls, and views of tranquil gardens—creates a moment of stillness where you can reflect on the morning’s journey.

In the afternoon, your exploration deepens with a visit to Qixia Temple, one of Nanjing’s most revered and picturesque Buddhist sites. Tucked into the northern hills of the city, this ancient temple is surrounded by rolling forested slopes that burst into color in every season—fiery red in autumn, lush green in spring and summer. Famous for its Thousand Buddha Cliff, a dramatic stone face carved with over 500 Buddhist figures dating back to the Southern Dynasties, Qixia is both an artistic treasure trove and a spiritual sanctuary.

Walk through the peaceful temple courtyards and listen as your guide reveals the symbolism behind the seven-tiered pagoda, intricate woodwork, and devotional relics housed within. Here, history and nature are intertwined: monks have practiced Zen meditation in these hills for over a thousand years, and the ancient energy of their presence still lingers in the quiet rustle of leaves and the coolness of stone walls. You may choose to take a short meditative stroll along the wooded paths surrounding the temple, or simply sit and soak in the harmony of this sacred place.

Your final destination today is Jiming Temple, one of the oldest and most active Buddhist temples in Nanjing, located just outside the old city wall. In contrast to the mountain temples, Jiming offers a more vibrant and living atmosphere, where daily rituals, local prayers, and incense smoke fill the air with reverence. You'll step through a bright red gate into a courtyard bustling with pilgrims, monks, and families lighting incense. The atmosphere is both peaceful and alive, reminding you that Buddhist practice continues to thrive here, not just as heritage but as everyday life.

From the temple's elevated walkways, enjoy sweeping views of Xuanwu Lake, shimmering in the late afternoon light and dotted with small boats and weeping willows. The juxtaposition of spiritual quietude and urban vibrancy gives Jiming a special charm—this is a place where ancient faith and modern rhythm coexist beautifully.

As the day draws to a close, you’ll return to your private vehicle and enjoy a smooth ride back to your hotel, your heart and mind refreshed by a journey through sacred spaces, forest trails, and centuries of spiritual tradition. Whether you're seeking reflection, beauty, or cultural depth, this Nanjing day tour offers a truly immersive and soul-soothing experience.

Price Per Person in US Dollars