My boyfriend and I saved up for six months to visit Nanjing. Before leaving, I made a 3-page notebook full of “must-see” spots from online guides. But once we arrived, we realized half were “photo traps,” and many recommendations were impractical.
The Social Media Trap
Old Mendong was touted online as a “must-visit ancient town.” In reality, it’s mostly commercial shops, no different from any other tourist street. The “lantern street” is only 50 meters long, with long queues just to snap a photo. Our so-called “hidden spot” ended up behind residential buildings, blocked by trash bins, and swarming with mosquitoes.
Food Disappointments
Three out of ten “must-eat” restaurants weren’t worth visiting. One popular duck blood vermicelli shop had long lines but tiny portions, tasting worse than a hotel breakfast. Conversely, a tiny unmarked store in Old Mendong served freshly made osmanthus sweet taro for 5 RMB a bowl — far better than the popular dessert chains. Locals told us that true Nanjing cuisine hides in markets and old neighborhoods, like Xu Auntie’s rice dumplings in Kexiang Alley — three soft dumplings for 10 RMB.
Transportation Tips
Online guides recommend shared bikes, but slopes like Zhongshan Mausoleum made cycling exhausting. Many old streets ban bikes, and we had trouble finding parking. The subway is more convenient — Line 3 connects Confucius Temple, Presidential Palace, and other attractions. To visit Zhongshan Mausoleum, the 10 RMB sightseeing bus is a better choice than hiking uphill.
Hidden Gems and Slow Travel
Our favorite moments weren’t from guides. One evening, we stumbled upon Xuanwu Lake. The sunset reflecting Purple Mountain created magical photos. Sitting on a bench, watching locals practice Tai Chi or walk dogs, was more relaxing than any famous attraction.
Maple Avenue at Meiling Palace also impressed us. Although online photos exaggerate, walking under the sun-dappled sycamores felt romantic. Visiting in the late afternoon helped us avoid crowds and get the best light for photos.
Accommodation
Staying near Xinjiekou was smart. Though pricier than around Confucius Temple, it was convenient. After shopping at night, we could return to the hotel anytime. The nearby night market offered late-night snacks, including the famous live meatballs. My boyfriend went from hesitant to eating two, savoring every bite.
Conclusion
Nanjing’s charm isn’t in photo spots but in street-level life. Slow travel — sipping tea in Old Mendong, watching leaves on Yihe Road, reading at Xianfeng Bookstore — gave us the truest experience of the city. Don’t chase guides; explore the local vibe.
References:
- Local travel blogs and firsthand experiences, 2023–2024.
- Interviews with Nanjing residents on authentic food and attractions.
