Jianye City Walk: Strolling Through the Land of the Six Dynasties Emperors
Mentioning Nanjing instantly brings to mind its historical prosperity and dominance. With the rapidly changing urban landscape, it has now become refined and bustling, showcasing the extraordinary spirit of a metropolis.
Join me as we step into Nanjing's Jianye District, a place that combines high-tech and fashion, beautiful scenery and delicious food. Embark on a spontaneous Jianye City Walk to experience the city's uniqueness and charm.
Day 1: Upon arriving in Nanjing and heading to Jianye District, the first stop on our City Walk is Mochou Lake Park to breathe some fresh air! This park is a delight to wander, with lakeside scenery that rivals Xuanwu Lake and Qinhuai River. It features a variety of classical garden architecture—pavilions, towers, bridges over flowing water—truly offering a new vista at every step. There are also expansive lawns and shady trees that are perfect for photos, picnics, camping, relaxing, or letting the kids run free. When hunger strikes, the nearby Nanhu Food Street and Cha'nan Food Street are packed with snacks. The plan is simple: stroll, eat, stroll, eat, and embrace an easy, beautiful life!
At midday, head to Nanhu East Road to photograph a retro block and see century-old shops given a fresh look. Just a 10-minute walk from Mochou Lake Park lies this nostalgic old street: Nanjing’s Nanhu East Road. It’s a street that ‘holds countless memories of Nanjing people,’ lined with vintage-style buildings. Glass-walled rooms display everyday objects from childhood: old kettles, Panda-brand electric fans, sewing machines... instantly transporting you back to the 80s and 90s. This vibrant street brims with life and detail, every corner filled with charm and beauty. You can fully soak up Nanjing’s history, culture, and local life. Best of all, it’s incredibly photogenic—getting great shots is so easy!
While you're at it, try some authentic Nanjing duck on Shuiximen Street. You’ll discover that Nanjing people’s love for duck runs deep in their bones! And the shop names are fun, like Zhang’s Duck Shop or Du’s Duck Shop, combining surnames with “duck” to highlight their own unique craft and flavor. I sampled one: crispy skin, tender meat, with a subtle osmanthus fragrance lingering on the palate—a long-lasting aftertaste.
In the afternoon, explore the IFC (International Finance Center), a luxury shopping mall that rivals Deji Plaza. Situated in Nanjing’s Hexi CBD, adjacent to Yuantong Metro Station, the mall occupies the podium of three towers, spanning approximately 1 million square meters over nine floors with over 200 stores. Positioned as a high-end fashion destination, it brings together top international brands, some debuting in Nanjing for the first time, offering a one-stop new shopping, entertainment, and leisure experience.
As dusk falls, head to Yuzui Wetland Park to check in at the lighthouse and admire the sunset over the Yangtze River. This is an excellent sunset spot, boasting nearly 3 kilometers of river shoreline, close to 1,000 acres of tidal wetlands and pristine forests, often called a 'green ocean' or 'Norwegian woods.' You can rent a shared bicycle and leisurely pedal along the rainbow bike path, or stand by the lighthouse and quietly listen to riverside singers croon classic old songs that 'stir up memories'—perfect for a midsummer evening.
Andaz Nanjing Hexi
For accommodation, choose Andaz Nanjing Hexi! Inspired by the design of the 'Jiangnan Imperial Examination Hall,' it features over a thousand square meters of outdoor gardens hidden within the city. The hotel’s overall design is modern and elegant, suffused with a strong literati atmosphere of Jinling (ancient Nanjing), allowing you to fully feel the city’s culture. Andaz is known for high standards in hardware, service, and dining—meticulous details ensure a perfect stay. The staff make you feel welcomed and at home, like a breath of spring. My suite was an open-plan layout with excellent views and high comfort.
China Green Expo Garden
Cherry blossoms, pavilions, tulips, green trees, riverside embankments, rapeseed flowers... Want to snap beautiful photos in different styles? On the morning of Day 2, our City Walk kicks off at China Green Expo Garden! Right at the entrance is the Netherlands Garden, with tulips of every color, where you can encounter a romantic windmill and mysterious black swans. The cultural creative products are well done, and there’s a snack street that foodies will love. The riverbank area is also stunning: sunlight glitters on the water, creating a scene both relaxing and romantic. Riverside, there are vast lawns and rapeseed flowers, perfect for camping and picnics—so lively and fun!
Yinxingli Cultural and Art Block
At noon, head to Yinxingli Cultural and Art Block, brimming with cultural atmosphere and creative inspiration. There are 13 art installations here that tell the story of Nanjing and literature, letting you feel the city’s humanistic charm. Stroll through the block and appreciate the intriguing works—every piece is a meticulously crafted gem by designers. Literary youth should not miss it! There are also plenty of small shops; whether you’re out with kids, on a date, gathering with friends and family, or simply wandering, you can fully enjoy the charm of creativity!
In the afternoon, scope out Hexi Longfor Paradise Walk and check in at brand concept stores. Wander the shopping street, admire the elaborate layouts and decorations, and revel in the joy of shopping.
For a cozy, romantic evening, come find the answer at Wuli Live House! This is a music utopia with drinks and coffee, an urban campsite within the art block. It’s got everything you love: art spaces, a dining bar, KTV, cinema, live bands, coffee, cocktails... The ambiance is elegant and stylish, making it an excellent gathering spot. Watch an open-air movie, sip some wine while listening to music, and let the worries of life and work drift away. This moment of tipsiness is so satisfying...
As night falls, visit Pengpai Li Center to enjoy the night view and experience trendy bar culture. This is a newly popular check-in spot, a gathering place for all sorts of influencer-worthy shops. The cyberpunk-inspired fashion landmark offers photogenic corners everywhere! Its dazzling lights break the quiet night as fashionable men and women come here to have a drink and unleash their youthful energy!
Tonight, we’re staying at the Golden Eagle World G Hotel Nanjing. It’s said to be the most photogenic hotel in Nanjing, with a strong artistic sense, excellent attention to detail, and a great atmosphere. The hotel has 76 floors and is the world’s tallest triple-tower connected building, allowing you to enjoy breathtaking views from 368 meters above the clouds with every sip and bite! Its location is also superb, seamlessly connecting you to the city’s bustling areas.
Early on Day 3, head to Jianye’s popular photo spot: Nanjing Eye Footbridge, where you can enjoy the river breeze and scenery. This is the first sightseeing footbridge on the Yangtze River, and I highly recommend coming at dawn or dusk to witness stunning sunrises and sunsets. You can sit on the grass, chat with friends, and admire the charm of the Nanjing Eye and the Twin Towers framed together.
At noon, check out Jinao Aesthetic Life Museum and play the part of a cultured youth. I happened to arrive during a Dali art exhibition; the bizarre and powerful ‘magical’ artworks, combined with the mall’s clever decorations, make for a great playful experience!
When hunger strikes, head to Huxi Street and feast on trendy gourmet eats. The food options here are simply overwhelming: Minji Fried Chicken, Anjia Osmanthus Tangyuan, Taste Specialty Big Wontons, Zhangfuyuan Big Bowl Noodles, Xu Ayi Cake Shop, Fengying Specialty Baozi, and more—the list goes on. It’s perfect for a ‘special forces’ style food crawl, eating until you’re about to burst before leaving.
In the afternoon, visit Wuyue Plaza to experience the indoor Qinhuai Water Street. Located on the basement level, it essentially brings Nanjing’s Qinhuai River indoors. Along a gentle 300-meter stream, you pass the Boat Dock Lantern Market, Quxi Pavilion, Huishan Pavilion, and then four distinctive bridges—Yanshui Bridge, Xiyue Bridge, Wenshu Bridge, and Huaxue Bridge. It’s truly unique and will amaze you in minutes! The seamless blend of small bridges, flowing water, and pavilions makes you feel as if you’ve instantly traveled back to the ancient Qinhuai in spring’s misty beauty, with a dreamlike, enchanting feel. Inside, there are many trendy brand stores, shops, and eateries—great for a long browse.
So, does the ancient capital Nanjing’s hidden gem—Jianye District—make your eyes light up and ignite your curiosity? When you have the chance, come experience Jianye’s charm. Citywalk is the best way to get to know a city, and I look forward to seeing your similar travelogue~
