Not just the Lalu Hotel by Sun Moon Lake—let’s take travelers on a journey to explore and savor the old soul of Nanjing.

By MOOK Scenic Spots, compiled and reported
 
Nanjing boasts the imperial grandeur of the Six Dynasties, with dynastic changes etching out a profound cultural legacy. As the last capital before the Republic of China retreated to Taiwan, Nanjing is steeped in the ambiance of the Republican era. The final resting place of the Father of the Nation, the “Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum,” the “Meiling Palace” of the Eternal First Lady, and the old Republican-era buildings along Nanjing Road—all of Nanjing’s famous attractions are imbued with stories of Taiwan’s past. Its complex historical significance and rich culture have, paradoxically, made it one of the trendiest ancient cities.

One of the most iconic sites representing old Nanjing is the 35.5-kilometer-long “Ancient City Wall,” which has a history of over 600 years. Strolling along the ancient city wall within the city, every step is on a path of history. Climbing onto the sturdy walls and gazing over the bustling cityscape below, you can see how this wall defended both internal order and external threats during wartime.

Hidden within the Ming city wall is the “Tai City Book House.” Stepping into the bookstore, the aroma of tea mingles with that of books. Foreign tourists and locals drawn by the charm of “tea” and the “wall” enjoy a leisurely afternoon tea cradled by the ancient walls.

From lingering in movie sets to exploring unique bookstores, Nanjing is a must-visit for literary souls. The city’s deep history and culture have also made it a popular filming location for numerous TV dramas and films in recent years. The Golden Horse Award-winning film “The Ferryman,” set in a 1990s-style bar called “Willie’s Restaurant & Bar,” captures youthful passion and reignites interest in classic brands.

Beyond poignant love stories, there’s also love for the nation during turbulent times. The TV drama “The Dying of the Light,” adapted from Bai Xianyong’s novel, delves into the chaos of a bygone era. The former Air Force dependents’ village “Ren’ai East Village” has long since vanished into the mist of Nanjing. To truly understand a city, beyond its culture and history, bookstores offer another window. The Pioneer Bookstore, often ranked among the world’s best and hailed as “China’s most beautiful bookstore,” offers just that.