Nanjing, known as the 'southern capital' in English, is a city steeped in history and culture, having served as the capital for ten different dynasties in Chinese history. As one of the four great ancient capitals of China, Nanjing boasts a rich heritage and is recognized as a "Famous Historical and Cultural City".

Geographical and Historical Significance: Nanjing is located on the east coast of China and has been a significant business, industrial, and educational center throughout its history. It is situated in the Yangtze River basin plain, with the Yangtze River to the west and the Ningzheng River on the other sides, surrounded by mountains that have helped preserve its traditional culture. The city has a humid subtropical climate with four distinct seasons, and it experiences hot and humid summers and cold, damp winters.

Attractions and Culture: Nanjing is home to numerous historical sites and cultural attractions. Key landmarks include the Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum, China Gate, Ming Xiaoling Mausoleum, Lingqu Temple, President Palace, and Confucius Temple. The city is also known for its local products such as velvet, satin, imitation ivory, Yuhua Pebbles, and Chinese painting and calligraphy. Culinary delights like xiaolongbao (soup dumplings), yashui duck, and eight delicacies soup are popular among visitors and locals alike.

Historical Timeline:

—In 333 BC, Chu built Jingling Yi.

—In 229 AD, Sun Quan established his capital here during the Three Kingdoms era.

—In 1368, the Ming Empire established their new capital in Nanjing.

—In 1853, the Taiping army captured Nanjing, making it their capital during their rule.

—In 1927 the Nationalist government made Nanjing their capital city.

—In 1937, the Japanese army captured the city, resulting in a significant loss of life.

Economy and Infrastructure: Nanjing has a developed economy with a strong tertiary industry, including services and financial services, as well as significant secondary and primary industries. The city serves as an inland port city and transportation hub, with a comprehensive infrastructure that supports dynamic trade and commerce sectors.

Transportation and Connectivity: Nanjing is well-connected, both within China and internationally, making it an important transportation and communication hub in East China. It is also the most important commercial city in the Yangtze River delta region after Shanghai.

Nanjing is a city rich in history and culture, and there are several must-visit historical sites that you should not miss when visiting. Here are some of the top historical sites in Nanjing:

Ming Xiaoling Tomb (Xiaoling Mausoleum of the Ming Dynasty): Built in 1381 for Zhu Yuanzhang, the founding emperor of the Ming Dynasty, this tomb is a UNESCO World Heritage site and is known for its sublime layout and fine construction, particularly the Sacred Way with its stone sculptures.

Confucius Temple (Fuzimiao): One of China's four most famous Confucian temples, it was also the first "university" in ancient China. The temple complex includes the Da Cheng Temple and Xue Gong (the Imperial Academy), and it's a must-visit for those interested in sinology.

Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum: This is an astonishing sight at the top of an enormous stone stairway, and it's a mandatory stop for most visitors to Nanjing.

Nanjing Museum: This museum features three modern exhibition blocks alongside a traditional temple-style hall, with a wide range of exhibits.

Qixia Temple: Located on Qixia Mountain, this sacred site was founded by the Buddhist monk Ming Sengshao during the Southern Qi dynasty and is a significant religious site.

Zhan Garden: A Ming-dynasty garden complex that once housed Taiping officials, offering insight into the Taiping history.

Central Gate (Zhōngyāng Gate): One of the original 13 Ming city gates, it's located in the north of town and is historically significant.

Yangzi River Bridge: Opened in 1968, this is one of the longest bridges in China, featuring a double-decker design with a road on top and a train line below.

Meiling Palace: Associated with Song Meiling, the First Lady of the Republic of China, this site offers a glimpse into the history of the period.

Jiming Temple: The most active temple in Nanjing, it was first built in AD 527 during the Three Kingdoms period and has been rebuilt many times since.

These sites offer a glimpse into the rich history and cultural heritage of Nanjing, and visiting them will provide a deeper understanding of the city's past.