Nanjing, which is situated in the lower reaches of the Yangtze River in eastern China, is a renowned historical and cultural city which covers about 6,000 square kilometers and which has a population of over 6.2 million. As the capital of Jiangsu Province, Nanjing is an important economic, political, cultural and educational center. Historically known as Nanking, Nanjing served as the capital of several dynasties including the six dynasties, namely Wu, Eastern Jin, Song, Qi, Liang and Chen, and the Republic of China. The Nanjing Yangtze Great Bridge, which once functioned as the only connection between South and North China, has witnessed rapid economic development of the nation. Home to many of the country’s top universities and colleges, Nanjing embraces students from home and abroad.

With distinctive seasons, Nanjing’s climate is representative of subtropical mountainous regions. October is the best month to visit Nanjing as travelers can beat the summer heat, avoid the cold of winter, and stay dry from the spring showers. To travelers, Nanjing is famous for cultural relics left behind by its long and influential history, such as the Ming Dynasty tombs that are on the UNESCO World Heritage List, the Great Ming City Wall that is still intact, and the mausoleum of Dr. Sun Yat-sen (leader of the 1911 revolution). Xinjiekou, Hunan Road and Fuzimiao (the Confucius Temple) are modern tourist attractions known for good shopping, delicious cuisine, and various forms of art and entertainment. Other scenic spots include the Presidential Palace, Mochou Lake, Buddhist temples and pagodas, and so on.

Nanjing is easily accessible by airplane, railroad, and car. Visitors arriving at the Nanjing Lukou International Airport can reach downtown by taxi or airport bus. There are flights to most major cities in China, including Hongkong. Since there is no direct flight from Shanghai to Nanjing, visitors can take the Multiple Unit train which takes about two hours and departs every few minutes. A modern highway system links Nanjing with all major Chinese cities.