Joanna James
The capital of the Jiangsu province, Nanjing offers intrepid travellers plenty to explore on a visit to this Chinese city. Once a capital during the Ming Dynasty, it provides insights into the country's rich cultural and natural heritage which can be experienced at key sites of interest.
Formerly a royal residence during the Ming Dynasty, the Nanjing Presidential Palace subsequently became the place where Sun Yat-sen was inaugurated as the president of the Republic of China; it was later converted to the China Modern History Museum. There's much to see here including the Xuyuan Garden home to pavilions and the former office of the provisional president. Those heading to the site's Middle Section will find the Gate Tower, Great Hall and Zichao Tower, while the East Section which hosts exhibitions is where one can view historical documents too.
Dr. Sun Yat-sen holds a special place amongst the Chinese since he led the people to overthrow the Qing Dynasty and helped end the feudal monarchy system; he subsequently became the Republic of China's provisional first president. His mausoleum in Purple Mountain is well worth visiting for those staying at hotels or serviced apartments Nanjing has to offer. Highlights include a large memorial marble archway, a nine-metre tall stele with 24 Chinese characters and the Sacrificial Hall at the site's highest point; here you will find a statue of Dr. Sun Yat-sen made from stone, information about his life and a chamber where his marble coffin can be found.
Purple Mountain is not only home to the famed mausoleum mentioned earlier but is an attraction in its own right with much more sightseeing adventures in store. Within easy reach of properties such as Somerset Youth Olympic Nanjing, this site which is also known as the Zhongshan Mountain National Park is set amidst stunning natural beauty. Named after the purple clouds one can see at the mountain's summit, the site is also where you can visit several key attractions; these include the Ming Xiaoling Mausoleum, Linggu Temple, Plum Blossom Hill and the Toutuo Ridge Scenic Area.
Those looking for family attractions in Nanjing can visit this site and enjoy encounters with diverse marine creatures from around the world. Home to more than 200 marine species, it does not only have fish but penguins, sea lions, dolphins, polar bears and more. Amongst the highlights are the glass underwater tunnel where one can see various marine species including sharks, a rainforest area with freshwater tropical fish and separate sections for Humboldt penguins and jellyfish. There's even a hall featuring a fun dolphin show.
Also referred to as Nanjing Fuzimiao, this temple is dedicated to the famed Chinese philosopher, Confucius. While the original Nanjing Confucius Temple dated back to the Song Dynasty, it went through much change before being rebuilt in the 1980s. Featuring architectural elements of the Ming and Qing Dynasties, this site can be found beside the Qin Huai River and is where one can visit the Hall of Great Achievement or Dacheng Hall; it features a huge statue of Confucius along with over 30 panels constructed from silver, jade and gold that provide insights into his life.
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