Nanjing China Travel Tips

Welcome to Nanjing, China!

As a tourist in this beautiful city, it’s essential to respect local customs and traditions to make the most of your trip. Here are some key travel and cultural etiquette tips to help you navigate like a pro:

Before You Go

  • Learn Some Chinese: While many Nanjingers speak some English, learning basic Mandarin phrases like “hello” (nǐ hǎo), “thank you” (xiè xiè), and “excuse me” (duì bù qì) will go a long way in showing respect for the culture.
  • Download Useful Apps: Install apps like Didi Chuxing (taxi app), WeChat (social media and payment), and Google Translate to help you navigate the city.

Cultural Etiquette

  • Respect Elders: Show deference to elderly Chinese, as they are highly respected in Chinese culture. Use both hands when giving or receiving something from an older person.
  • Remove Your Shoes: When entering a home or some traditional restaurants, remove your shoes as a sign of respect.
  • Use Chopsticks Correctly: Hold chopsticks correctly (don’t cross them or leave them standing upright), and don’t play with them. It’s impolite to eat while walking or in a loud, boisterous manner.

Travel Tips

  • Get a VPN: China has strict internet regulations, so get a reliable VPN to stay connected with family and friends back home.
  • Carry Tissues and Hand Sanitizer: Public restrooms might not have toilet paper or hand sanitizer, so be prepared!
  • Learn the Local Currency: The Chinese yuan (CNY) is the local currency. You can exchange money at airports, hotels, or banks.

Transportation

  • Get a Nanjing Metro App: Buy a rechargeable card for convenient travel on the metro.
  • Hail Taxis Correctly: Use your hotel’s taxi card or flag down a taxi with your hand, not by blowing your horn (that’s impolite!).

Food and Drink

  • Try Local Cuisine: Be adventurous and try authentic Nanjing dishes like saltwater duck (), Nanjing salty doughnut (), and Yangzhou fried rice cakes ().
  • Avoid Drinking on the Street: It’s considered impolite to drink on the street or in public areas. Instead, enjoy beverages at a teahouse or restaurant.

Miscellaneous

  • Dress Modestly: Avoid revealing clothing, especially when visiting temples or historic sites.
  • Remove Your Sunglasses Indoors: In China, it’s seen as impolite to wear sunglasses indoors, as it implies hiding one’s eyes.

By following these travel and cultural etiquette tips, you’ll have a respectful and enjoyable journey in Nanjing!