NANJING

A HOTEL IN NANJING FEATURING LUXURY APARTMENT HOTEL-STYLE LIVING

Nanjing is a thoroughly enchanting city and the capital of China's Jiangsu province - a city of tree-lined streets and canals, ancient palaces and temples, and warm, friendly people. For lovers of Chinese history and culture, Nanjing is a must-see destination on any trip to China, and it's worth spending at least five days in the city to appreciate all that Nanjing has to offer. Whether you're travelling for business or leisure to Nanjing, take the time to visit Nanjing's gorgeous Confucius Temple area, walk the old city walls, and grab a bit of the city's iconic culinary delight, Nanjing Salted Duck. The best way to experience Nanjing is with a stay in a hotel close to the mighty Yangtze River.

STAYING IN NANJING

Nanjing is a wonderful city filled with plenty to see and do. The city of eight million people in China's east is a major economic and commercial hub, yet at the same time is alive with history and authentic Chinese culture. Nanjing was China's capital during the Ming dynasty, and echoes of its imperial past still remain today. Some temples in the city date back to as early as the 8th century, while others have been lovingly restored to their former glory or built in modern times to reflect Nanjing's admiration for Buddhist culture. 

For lovers of nightlife and getting out and about, Nanjing has a well-established bar and dining scene, offering everything from local haunts to international eateries. Some of the more quirky sights include the Confucius Temple area (which has very little to do with religion) and the garish neon-lit Fashion Lady Mall.

HISTORICAL NANJING

From the days of the Ming dynasty to the modern age, Nanjing has been the site of some of China's most momentous historical happenings. One of the most important in modern times is commemorated at the Nanjing Massacre Memorial Hall. The site remembers the approximately 300,000 people who lost their lives during WWII. Although a grisly reminder of the toll of war, the museum provides an excellent summary of the events leading up to - and after - the occupation. It's informative and well worth your time, especially as the site is so close to your apartment hotel in Nanjing's Jianye district.

Another must-see historical note to Nanjing is the old city walls, located only a short drive from your serviced apartments. Dating back to the very start of the Ming dynasty, the walls took over 200,000 workers and 21-years to complete. The best time to see the walls is in the morning as during summer the heat can be intense late in the day, and in the winter mornings, mists roll in and give the place a magical feel.

DINING IN NANJING

Where other parts of China could be distinct in their culinary traditions, Nanjing manages to be more of a melting pot where southern and northern styles of Chinese cuisine meet. Duck is often the star protein on the plate in Nanjing and the local salted duck (served cold) is well worth a taste. One of the best places in Nanjing to try some local favourites is Lao Dong Men (pedestrian street). Take a seat at traditional restaurants and teahouses amid the restored splendour of one of Nanjing's oldest districts, with some buildings dating back to the Ming and Qing dynasties.

For the original Nanjing dining, book a table at Dàpái Dàng, about a 25-minute drive from your serviced apartments in Nanjing's CBD. Designed to look like a Qing-era restaurant, the venue serves straight-up Jiangsu cuisine in a lively setting. Grab a bowl of the Nanjing noodles; they're outstanding.

UPON A PURPLE MOUNTAIN

Visitors to Nanjing looking for a dose of nature, should make tracks for the green surrounds of Purple Mountain. Don a daypack and step outside your apartments in Nanjing and into Olympic Stadium East Station, taking metro line 2 to Muxuyuan station. The area of Purple Mountain features some must-see historical sites, including the Ming Xiaoling - the mausoleum of the Hongwu Emperor and the founder of China's Ming dynasty. Take the time to wander the area and stop by the peaceful shore of Zixia Lake. To the south of the mausoleum, marvel at over 13,000 plum blossom trees on Plum Blossom Hill. Further to the east along the metro line, discover the Linggu Scenic Area and Linggu temple, which rises above the surrounding greenery like a scene from a Chinese watercolour painting.