Let’s cut straight to the chase: While Nanjing’s tap water undergoes treatment to meet national standards, it is generally not recommended for visitors to drink it directly straight from the tap. For travelers, especially those new to China, sticking to bottled or boiled water is the safest bet to avoid any potential stomach upset. The water infrastructure and treatment are robust in Nanjing, but differences in mineral content and local microflora mean your system might react differently than at home. So, play it smart – keep that bottled H₂O handy, especially when you’re out exploring!
Why might Nanjing tap water upset my stomach as a traveler?
- Different Standards & Microflora: While treated and safe for locals accustomed to it, Nanjing’s water might contain trace minerals or microorganisms unfamiliar to your digestive system, potentially causing temporary discomfort like traveler’s diarrhea (“Montezuma’s Revenge” equivalent).
- Aging Infrastructure in Some Areas: Though constantly improving, sections of older piping in historical parts of Nanjing could potentially introduce contaminants after the treatment plant. It’s a low risk, but one easily avoided.
- Your Body’s Sensitivity: Travel itself can stress your system (jet lag, new foods). Introducing new water is another variable your gut might not appreciate immediately. Bottled water removes this variable entirely.
Where can I easily find safe drinking water in Nanjing?
Finding clean water is super easy throughout the city. Here’s a quick guide to your safest options:
| Water Source | Availability in Nanjing | Cost | Convenience | Best Used For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sealed Bottled | Everywhere | Low-Medium | ★★★★★ | Drinking anytime, anywhere |
| Boiled Tap Water | Hotels, homes, some cafes | Free/Low | ★★★☆☆ | Tea/coffee, brushing in room |
| Filtered Stations | Increasingly common | Very Low | ★★★★☆ | Refilling your bottle on the go |
- Sealed Bottled Water: King of convenience! Available literally everywhere – supermarkets (Walmart, Carrefour), convenience stores (FamilyMart, Lawson, 7-Eleven), tiny shops, street vendors, hotels, restaurants, and attractions. Brands like Nongfu Spring, Wahaha, C’estbon, and Ice Dew are reliable and cheap (usually 2-5 RMB for 500ml). Always check the seal is intact.
- Boiled Water: Your hotel room kettle or thermos is your best friend. Boiling kills bacteria and parasites. Use this water for brushing your teeth, refilling your bottle after it cools, or making tea/coffee. Most sit-down restaurants also serve boiled water or tea.
- Filtered Water Stations: Many modern apartments, malls, metro stations, and public areas (like Confucius Temple area) now have water refill stations offering filtered, chilled, or hot water. Great for refilling reusable bottles cheaply or even free! Look for signs or ask your “Deep China Travel” guide.
How can I stay hydrated safely during Nanjing explorations?
- Carry a Reusable Bottle (Smartly): Bring a bottle and fill it with boiled water from your hotel or use public filtered stations. Avoid filling directly from bathroom taps.
- Buy Bottled Water in Bulk: Grab a large 5L bottle from a supermarket for your hotel room; decant it into your smaller daypack bottle.
- Hydrate Frequently: Nanjing’s summers are hot and humid! You’ll need more water than usual walking the City Wall or Zhongshan Ling. Don’t wait until you’re thirsty.
- Not Just Water: Coconut water (available sealed), fresh young coconuts (opened in front of you), or sealed sports drinks (like Pocari Sweat) are good hydration options too.
What about drinks and food involving water in Nanjing?
- Hot Tea & Coffee: Generally safe, as the water is boiled. Enjoy the fantastic tea culture! Nanjing salted duck pairs perfectly with tea. Be wary of adding ice cubes unless you’re sure they are made from purified water (common in higher-end places).
- Cold Drinks in Restaurants: Bottled drinks, canned sodas, and fresh juices (if freshly squeezed and consumed immediately) are usually fine. Ask your “Deep China Travel” guide for reputable juice spots.
- Raw Fruits & Veggies: Enjoy them! But only if you peel them yourself (like bananas, oranges) or they have been washed in purified water (common in prepared fruit platters from reputable supermarkets/malls). Skip raw salads from street stalls.
- Ice Cream & Frozen Treats: Stick to factory-sealed ice cream bars/popsicles from shops or vendors. Be cautious with soft-serve or scoop ice cream from unknown sources if you have a sensitive stomach.
What if I accidentally drink Nanjing tap water or feel unwell?
Firstly, don’t panic! Many people have a sip accidentally or brush their teeth with tap water with zero issues.
- Symptoms: If you experience mild diarrhea or stomach cramps, focus on rest and hydration. Stick to bottled water and very plain foods (rice, plain toast, bananas).
- Over-the-Counter Help: Pharmacies (look for 药房 - Yàofáng) stock medications like Loperamide (Imodium) for diarrhea relief and oral rehydration salts (ORS) to combat dehydration. Our “Deep China Travel” guides can assist you in finding a pharmacy.
- Seek Medical Help: If symptoms are severe (high fever, persistent vomiting, bloody stool) or don’t improve within a day or two, seek medical attention. Larger hospitals have international clinics. Have your insurance details handy.
- Hotel Help: Your hotel concierge can usually arrange a doctor visit or advise on the closest clinic. Knowing the address of your hotel written in Chinese is very helpful for taxis or showing locals.
Remember, being water-wise is one of the simplest ways to ensure your Nanjing adventure remains focused on discovering its incredible history and vibrant culture, not the inside of your hotel bathroom! “Deep China Travel” is always here with local tips and safe water during your tours. Enjoy the journey!
