As we welcome the sunshine and summer breeze, some of us will be saying goodbye to friends we’ve met along the way who will be leaving the city of Nanjing. So why not take this opportunity to say a proper goodbye? Whether you’ve lived here for 2 years or for 8, with more than a plethora of activities and sights in Nanjing, there may be some you have missed.
Before you leave Nanjing, make sure of a lunch or dinner at Dapaidang which serves up quintisential Nanjing cuisine in a quite extraordinary setting taking you back to the Nanjing of old. As #7MEIZI2 on Dianping, commenting in Chinese describes it, “The lively Laomendong branch is decked out with bright lanterns looking like the bath house from [cult Japanese animated fantasy film] ‘Spirited Away’”. Here, the antique decoration complements the traditional cuisine of Nanjing-style duck. And there are plenty other options for those who don’t eat meat, with a range of seafood and vegetable dishes. Also serves a handful of local desserts.
If you fancy going out in style with your Nanjing departure, the branch of Shíchaoyuanzi located downtown at 163-1 Fengfu Lu is perfect for large groups or even banquets as the dining area is spacious. However it’s not recommended to drive there as parking can be a bit of a hassle. The playfully whimsical decor extends from the floor tiles to even the door handles, while the outdoors is also brought indoors, with seats in boats and a cluster of draped pavilions. Apart from local cuisine, dishes from Huiyang and Shandong are served promptly. Make sure to sample their delectable dishes such as the famous roasted carp and lion’s head meatballs.
For a day trip don’t forget Ming Xiaoling Mausoleum if you didn’t tick this one when you first arrived in Nanjing. Known for its landmarks, scenery and small attractions, the area is pretty big. Your visit will take in temples, gardens and lakes. Swans as well as a few eateries dot the lakes, while you can also catch seasonal performances in the outdoor amphitheatre. Also within the park are designated places where you can feed deer; make sure you buy some deer feed at the gate of the park. And the other thing to remember this time of year? Mosquito repellent.
If you’re game for an overnight stay, why not take advantage of Nanjing’s natural amenities? The Pine Pillow Hotel is recommended for a forest adventure with lakeside chalets that is also perfect for children with on-site playgrounds and picnic tables. Excellent for an overnight stay or just a long weekend, aside from the fresh air and mountainous scenery, a wide range of outdoor activities are just another reason to go. Around the area, you can find tree top adventures, kayaking, blueberry picking and a massive rainbow slide. Don’t forget the nearby markets with street food vendors amongst the foot traffic. Located in Yaxi Town of Gaochun District, this was the first place to be awarded the title of Cittaslow in China.
And to end your time in Nanjing? Our mighty Purple Mountain remains the perfect place to conclude your Nanjing chapter as the final resting place for emperors and heroes from over ten dynasties. Truly the apt place to say your final goodbye to the great city of Nanjing, the Southern Capital.
