Nanjing Travel Guide: Transportation and Accommodation Guide

Discover the Best Accommodations in Nanjing for Your Trip

Nanjing, a city where ancient history meets modern vibrance, offers a range of accommodation options to suit every traveler’s style and budget. Whether you’re here to explore its imperial heritage, savor local cuisine, or experience bustling city life, choosing the right place to stay can elevate your journey. Let’s dive into the top areas and hotels to consider for an unforgettable stay in Nanjing.

What are the best areas to stay in Nanjing?

Nanjing’s layout makes it easy to access major attractions, but certain neighborhoods stand out for their convenience and charm.

• Xinjiekou: The city’s commercial heart, perfect for shoppers and foodies. Stay here for easy access to metro lines, upscale malls, and a lively night scene.
• Confucius Temple (Fuzimiao) Area: Ideal for culture lovers. This historic district is steps away from ancient temples, Qinhuai River views, and traditional snacks.
• Xuanwu District: Near Xiaoling Tomb and Purple Mountain, this area offers tranquility with scenic parks and cultural sites.
• Hexi (West Bank): A quieter option with riverside walks and proximity to the Nanjing Eye Ferris wheel.

Which hotels in Nanjing cater to different budgets?

From luxury to wallet-friendly, Nanjing has options for everyone.

• Luxury: The Regent Nanjing offers opulent rooms, skyline views, and a Michelin-starred restaurant. Alternatively, the InterContinental Nanjing Yuhuatai blends modern elegance with historical touches.
• Mid-Range: Hotels like the Crowne Plaza Nanjing (near Xinjiekou) balance comfort and affordability, while Astor Hotel in Hunan Road provides art-deco charm.
• Budget-Friendly: Chains like HanTing Hotel (multiple locations) offer clean rooms and free breakfast. For a local vibe, try Qing Man Jia Yue, a guesthouse near Confucius Temple.

Tip: Use platforms like Ctrip or Booking.com to compare rates and read reviews.

How do I get around Nanjing from my hotel?

Nanjing’s efficient metro system connects all key areas. If you’re staying in:

• Xinjiekou: Walk to Line 1 or 2 for quick trips to the Walled City or Presidential Palace.
• Hexi: Take Line 10 to reach attractions like the Jiangxin Island.
• Xuanwu District: Buses or a short metro ride (Line 2) will take you to Purple Mountain. For wider exploration, bikes are affordable via apps like Mobike, and taxis are reasonably priced.

What attractions are near popular hotels?

Stay strategically to minimize travel time:

• Xinjiekou: Walk to the Nanjing Presidential Palace (1 km) or shop at Deji Plaza.
• Confucius Temple: Explore the Qinhuai Scenic River and Lao Men East historic street.
• Hexi: Visit the Nanjing Olympic Sports Center or take a ferry to Jiangxin Island.
• Xuanwu: Hike Purple Mountain or visit the Ming Xiaoling Mausoleum (both within 3 km).

Where should I eat near my Nanjing accommodation?

Nanjing’s culinary scene is legendary—try these local favorites near your stay:

• Duck Blood Soup: Head to Yi Pin Dian Xin Liang Si Guan (multiple locations) for this iconic dish.
• Street Food: Night markets near Confucius Temple offer dumplings, skewers, and sticky rice cakes.
• Fine Dining: For upscale Huaiyang cuisine, book a table at Liang Hao Shi Guang (near Xinjiekou).
• Tea Houses: In Xuanwu District, pair green tea with snacks at Yu Hua Tea House.

What cultural experiences can I have near my hotel?

Immerse yourself in Nanjing’s heritage:

• Night Cruise on Qinhuai River: Book tickets near Confucius Temple for a lit-up boat ride.
• Calligraphy Class: Studios near Xinjiekou offer sessions where you’ll write Chinese characters.
• Jade Carving Workshop: In Xuanwu District, watch artisans craft intricate jade pieces.
• Traditional Opera: Check schedules at the Jiangsu Performance Arts Theater (near Hexi) for Yue Opera shows.

By choosing the right accommodation in Nanjing, you’ll gain a front-row seat to the city’s past and present. Whether you prioritize luxury, culture, or convenience, Deep China Travel can tailor your stay to make the most of this dynamic destination. Start planning today—your Nanjing adventure awaits!

How to Get from [Airport] to Downtown Nanjing?

Traveling to Nanjing? Whether you’re landing at Lukou International Airport (NKG) or another nearby hub, reaching downtown Nanjing is straightforward. Here’s your essential guide to transportation options, tips, and hidden gems to kickstart your Deep China adventure!

Which Transport Options Are Available from Nanjing’s Airports?

Nanjing’s primary airport, Lukou International Airport (NKG), lies about 40 kilometers south of the city center. Your choices for getting into downtown Nanjing include:

• Taxi: A convenient but pricier option. Expect a fare of ¥120–¥150 (~$17–$21) to most central areas like Xinjiekou or Zhonghua Gate, with a 45–60-minute ride.
• Metro Line 1: The budget-friendly choice. The airport station connects directly to downtown via a 40-minute ride (¥10). Exit at Xiaofu Street or Nanjing South Station for easy connections.
• Airport Shuttle Bus: Routes link the airport to key hotels and districts (¥25 per person). Check schedules online, as frequency varies.
• Private Transfer: Book through services like Deep China Travel for hassle-free door-to-door transport. Perfect for families or large groups!

What’s the Fastest Way to Reach Downtown?

For speed, Metro Line 1 reigns supreme. Trains run every 5–10 minutes during peak hours, bypassing traffic jams. If time is tight, this is your best bet. Taxis are slightly faster but cost more. Avoid shuttle buses if you’re short on time, as they may drop passengers sequentially.

How Much Does It Cost and How Long Does It Take?

Here’s a quick comparison:

Any Tips for a Smooth Arrival?

• Download Apps: Use DiDi (China’s Uber) for taxis or Alipay/WeChat for metro payments.
• Buy Metro Cards: Vending machines at the airport sell rechargeable cards. Keep it for exploring Nanjing’s extensive metro system!
• Prepare Your Address: Have your hotel’s name and address written in Chinese (ask your hotel for the characters). Taxi drivers rarely speak English.
• Avoid Rush Hours: Nanjing’s peak traffic (7:30–9:30 AM, 5–7 PM) can double taxi ride times.

What Should I Do After Landing in Nanjing?

Once in downtown Nanjing, dive into the city’s blend of ancient history and modern charm:

• Explore the City Wall: Walk along Nanjing’s Ming Dynasty Wall near Xuanwu Lake for panoramic views.
• Visit the Qinhuai River: Stroll or take a night cruise to see lanterns reflecting on the water.
• Taste Nanjing Specialties: Try duck blood soup, steamed buns, or crispy sesame pancakes at local markets like Qinhuai Snack Street.
• Historical Sites: Don’t miss the Ming Xiaoling Mausoleum or the poignant Nanjing Massacre Memorial Hall.
• Book a Guided Tour: Let Deep China Travel’s experts curate day trips to nearby attractions like the Grand Canal or Purple Mountain.

Ready to discover China beyond the surface? Let Deep China Travel craft your perfect itinerary—from airport transfers to hidden cultural gems. Adventure awaits!

If you’re visiting Nanjing and relying on public transport, you might wonder whether the metro accepts foreign credit cards. As of 2023, Nanjing Metro stations primarily support domestic payment methods, such as China’s UnionPay, cash, or mobile payments like Alipay/WeChat Pay. However, international credit cards (Visa, Mastercard, etc.) are not widely accepted at ticketing machines or counters. To avoid hassle, consider alternative options like purchasing a transportation card (more on this below) or using cash for single-ride tickets.

How to Buy a Transportation Card in Nanjing?

For frequent travelers, Nanjing’s Jinling Tong Card (金陵通卡) is a convenient option. You can buy one at designated metro stations (e.g., Nanjing South Station, Xinjiekou Station) or select convenience stores like 7-Eleven. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Cost: A refundable deposit (¥20–50) plus stored value (top up as needed).
• Documents: No ID required for standard cards, but some tourist editions may be available.
• Where to use it: Metro, buses, and even some taxis.

What Are Other Ways to Pay for Nanjing’s Public Transport?

If you don’t have cash or a transportation card, here are backup options:

1. Mobile Payments: Download apps like Alipay or WeChat Pay and link them to your foreign credit card. Use the QR codes at station gates.
2. Single-Ride Tickets: Available at machines (cash only) for ¥2–10 per ride, depending on distance.
3. Tourist Day Passes: Check with hotels or travel agencies for discounted multi-day passes.

Which Metro Stations Are Near Nanjing’s Top Attractions?

To maximize your trip, here’s how to connect key sights with the metro:

• Xinjiekou Station (Line 1): For shopping on Peace Avenue and nearby historic sites.
• Zhonghua Gate Station (Line 1): Close to the City Wall and Pearl Spring Park.
• Xiaomafan Station (Line 10): Gateway to the Ming Xiaoling Mausoleum.
• Tianlong Si Station (Line 2): For the Nanjing Library and Xuanwu Lake. Use Google Maps or the Nanjing Metro app (Chinese-friendly) to plan routes.

How to Get From Nanjing Lukou Airport to the City?

After landing at Nanjing Lukou International Airport, you have several options:

1. Airport Metro Line (S1): Connects directly to Nanjing South Station (¥10–15, 40 min). Use cash or a transportation card.
2. Taxi: Flat rate to the city center (~¥150, 30–40 min).
3. Bus: Cheaper but slower (¥20–30, 1–1.5 hours). For late arrivals, pre-arrange an airport pickup with your hotel or use ride-hailing apps like Didi (works with English interface if set up beforehand).

Table: Nanjing Metro Fare Examples (as of 2023)

By planning ahead and using these tips, navigating Nanjing’s public transport will be stress-free. For personalized assistance, Deep China Travel offers guided tours and transport bookings tailored to your needs—reach out to make the most of your journey!

Welcome to Nanjing! Getting around this vibrant city is easier than ever with ride-hailing apps like Didi (the Chinese equivalent of Uber). Most taxis and private drivers use these platforms, so downloading one is essential. Simply register your phone number, link a payment method, and type your destination in English or Chinese. Didi’s interface is intuitive, but if you prefer Google Maps, the app also integrates with local services. Just make sure your phone has data—Nanjing’s public Wi-Fi spots are limited outside hotels.

What Payment Methods Are Accepted?

Cash is rarely used in Nanjing’s ride-hailing scene. Most drivers expect digital payments via Alipay or WeChat Pay, China’s top mobile wallets. Linking a debit/credit card to these apps is easy, but check if your bank charges foreign transaction fees. Alternatively, some apps accept international credit cards directly. For peace of mind, carry a small emergency cash reserve (¥100–200) for rare cases where digital payments fail.

Which App Should I Choose?

Didi dominates Nanjing’s market, offering standard taxis, premium cars, and shared rides. For budget options, Caocao or T3 might have lower prices. Here’s a quick comparison:

Stick with Didi for simplicity, especially at night or in remote areas.

How Do I Avoid Language Barriers?

Even if you don’t speak Mandarin, navigate apps seamlessly by switching to English. For in-app communication, use the translation feature or pre-save phrases like “Please take me to Xiaomalu Station” in Chinese (小马路口站). Drivers often rely on navigation apps, so double-check the route on your own map to avoid misunderstandings.

What If My Phone Has No Data?

Without mobile data, ride-hailing apps won’t work. Consider buying a China SIM card (¥50–100) at Nanjing Lukou Airport or major stations. Alternatively, rent a portable Wi-Fi device (¥15–30/day) from rental shops near tourist hubs like Confucius Temple. As a backup, note key addresses in Pinyin to show taxi drivers manually.

Alternatives to Ride-Hailing

If apps feel overwhelming, Nanjing’s metro system is affordable (¥2–¥5 per ride) and covers most attractions. Taxis can be hailed on the street, but expect longer waits. For short trips, bike-sharing apps like Mobike or Helibao let you scan and ride for ¥1.5–¥3 per hour—perfect for exploring areas like Xuanwu Lake.

Travel smart, and Nanjing’s transportation will feel like a breeze!

Is Public Transport Efficient in Nanjing? Navigating Nanjing’s urban transport is a breeze, thanks to its extensive network of metro lines, buses, and bike-sharing systems. The city’s 10 metro lines (as of 2023) cover almost all major tourist spots, from the historic Confucius Temple to modern hubs like Xinjiekou. Trains run every 3-5 minutes during peak hours, and tickets start at just 2 RMB for short rides. Buses are equally reliable, with over 600 routes connecting neighborhoods. A “Nanjing Transport” app even lets you track real-time arrivals—no language barriers here! For short trips, 30,000+ shared bikes are docked across the city, perfect for spontaneous detours to hidden alleys or street food stalls.

How Easy Is It to Navigate Without Mandarin?

Even first-time visitors can manage independently. Metro signs and bus announcements are bilingual (Chinese and English), and digital payment (via apps like Alipay or WeChat) is universal. If you prefer cash, buy a rechargeable “Lingxi Card” at any metro station—no ID required. Taxis are affordable (11 RMB base fare) but ask the driver to use the meter. For late-night rides, book through Didi (China’s Uber equivalent) to avoid communication hurdles. Pro tip: Save screenshots of key phrases like “Qing dao Zhonghua Men” (Take me to Zhonghua Gate)—most drivers appreciate the effort!

Can I Rely on Walking Alone?

While Nanjing’s sprawling, its historic core (Xinjiekou, Confucius Temple, Qinhuai River) is walker-friendly. Cobblestone streets, lined with tea houses and souvenir shops, take about 20-30 minutes to cross. Wear comfy shoes: the City Wall and Zhonghua Gate require gentle hikes with stunning views. For less central areas, combine walking with short metro rides—the “last mile” is often covered by bikes or affordable rickshaws (10-20 RMB).

What About Getting to Suburban Attractions?

Nanjing’s treasures aren’t all downtown. The “You” series tourist buses (Line 1: Purple Mountain, Line 2: Ming Xiaoling Mausoleum) drop you at iconic sites every 15-20 minutes. For farther destinations like the Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum or Pearl Spring Resort, take the metro to Xiadan Station and transfer to shuttle buses. Day trips to the Walled City of Xinyi or Gaochun Porcelain Village are easy via long-distance buses from Longchang Bus Terminal (connected to Metro Line 1).

Is Night Transport Reliable?

Yes! Nanjing’s metro operates until 11:30 PM (Line 1 even runs ²⁴⁄₇). Buses marked “Ye” (night) run until midnight, linking nightlife hubs like 1912 Bar Street and Hunan Road. After hours, licensed taxis are safe and plentiful near hotels. For a unique experience, hop on a night cruise along the Qinhuai River—it’s a scenic way to end your day while avoiding rush-hour crowds.

Pro Tips:

• Download “Nanjing Metro” and “Chang’an Jie” (bike-sharing) apps.
• Avoid taxis during rush hour (7:30-9:00 AM, 5:00-7:00 PM).
• The “Nanjing Sightseeing Pass” offers unlimited metro/bus rides for 1-3 days (¥40-120).

With these options, exploring Nanjing’s blend of dynastic history and modern energy feels effortless. Let Deep China Travel craft your itinerary—we’ll ensure you spend more time marveling at temples and less time decoding maps!

Nanjing, a city where ancient history meets modern buzz, offers diverse accommodation options to match every traveler’s style. Whether you’re here for sunrise views of the City Wall, midnight snacks at bustling markets, or quiet walks by historic canals, choosing the right neighborhood is key. Let’s break down the best areas to base yourself in this dynamic Chinese capital.

Why Location Matters in Nanjing

Nanjing’s sprawling layout means some areas are better for sightseeing, while others offer authentic local vibes. The city’s metro system connects most districts, but staying near top attractions saves time and energy. Here’s a quick guide to the star regions:

• Xinjiekou: For shoppers and nightlife lovers.
• Confucius Temple: To immerse in history and culture.
• Xuanwu Lake: For tranquility and natural beauty.
• Zhonghua Gate: A mix of modernity and old Nanjing charm.
• Pudong-like Jiangbei新区 (if you prefer new skyscrapers over temples).

How to Choose the Best Area for Your Trip?

Your ideal Nanjing neighborhood depends on your travel goals. History buffs should head to Confucius Temple, where cobblestone streets and Ming-era architecture surround you. Families might prefer Xuanwu Lake, which pairs scenic lakeside paths with kid-friendly parks. Solo travelers or party animals? Xinjiekou’s neon-lit streets and ²⁴⁄₇ eateries won’t disappoint. Budget backpackers can explore Louyuan Hotel near Sanxiaokou—affordable, social, and steps from the metro.

Pro Tip**: Avoid remote areas like Pukou (unless you’re visiting the Longteng Pavilion). Most attractions cluster in the city center, so prioritize proximity to the Metro Line 1 or Line 2.

What Are the Top Recommendations for Each District?

Here’s a snappy comparison:

What’s Near Your Accommodation?

Staying in the right spot means waking up near Nanjing’s iconic sights. From Xinjiekou, walk 10 minutes to the Nanjing Massacre Memorial Hall or hop on the metro to Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum. In Confucius Temple, morning mist over the Qinhuai River feels like stepping into a painting. Xuanwu Lake locals cycle to Jiming Temple for sunset, while Zhonghua Gate hosts weekend flea markets packed with vintage finds.

Transport Hack**: Nanjing’s metro covers all major areas, but bikes (e.g., Mobike) are cheaper for short trips. Avoid taxis during rush hour—traffic can grind to a halt!

Where Should You Eat Near Your Hotel?

Each Nanjing neighborhood has its food specialty. In Xinjiekou, grab dumplings at Wu Chuan or try roasted duck at Yuxue Lu. Near Confucius Temple, slurp bowls of 鸭血粉丝汤 (duck blood soup) at street stalls. Xuanwu Lake’s lakeside cafes serve bubble tea with a view, while Zhonghua Gate’s Old Door East market is perfect for savoring jianbing (savory crepes).

Local Secret**: For late-night eats, head to Sanxiaokou—a ²⁴⁄₇ food hub near Confucius Temple. Just follow the aroma of chao fan (fried rice) and xiaolongbao (soup dumplings).

Bonus: Day Trips From Your Nanjing Base

Even if you’re short on time, day trips from Nanjing are easy. If you’re staying near Xinjiekou, take the Gaozhi Express Train (30 mins) to Changzhou for dinosaur theme parks. From Confucius Temple, buses head to Plump Hills (40 mins) for cherry blossoms in spring. Adventure seekers can bike from Xuanwu Lake to Baimaqing Village (20 km) for rural charm.

Final Tip**: Book hotels early—Nanjing hosts millions of domestic tourists year-round, especially during Qingming Festival (April) and National Day (October). Use apps like **C