Nanjing‘s Most Popular Neighborhood, Gulou, is a bustling and vibrant area that is home to a diverse array of shops, restaurants, and cultural sites, making it the perfect destination for tourists looking to experience the best of what the city has to offer.
Morning: Exploring the Markets
A great way to start off the day in Gulou is by visiting one of the many markets that can be found throughout the neighborhood. The most popular of these is the Gulou Street Market, which is known for its wide variety of goods, including traditional Chinese handicrafts, clothing, and snacks. Here, visitors can find everything from traditional Nanjing silk scarves to handmade pottery and even local specialties like Nanjing’s famous salted duck.
Lunch: Trying Local Cuisine
After exploring the markets, it’s time to grab a bite to eat and experience some of the delicious local cuisine that Gulou has to offer. One of the must-try dishes in the area is the Nanjing-style braised duck, which is slow-cooked in a savory broth and often served over rice. Visitors can also find a wide variety of other regional specialties, such as the famous “Zhaji” a kind of crispy fried dough sticks, and “Xiaolongbao” a type of steamed bun filled with meat or vegetables.
Afternoon: Visiting Cultural Sites
After lunch, visitors can spend their afternoon exploring some of the neighborhood’s many cultural sites. One of the most popular of these is the Confucius Temple, which is one of the oldest and best-preserved examples of its kind in China. This temple is dedicated to the famous Chinese philosopher and is home to many artifacts and educational displays that provide insight into his life and teachings.
Another must-see destination is the President’s Palace, which was once the residence of the President of the Republic of China. This grand and imposing building is a great example of traditional Chinese architecture and is surrounded by beautiful gardens and courtyards. Visitors can also take a tour of the palace and see the opulent rooms and halls that were once used by the country’s leaders.
Evening: Shopping and Entertainment
As the day comes to a close, visitors can take advantage of the many shopping and entertainment options that Gulou has to offer. The neighborhood is home to a wide variety of shops, from trendy boutiques to traditional Chinese emporiums, selling everything from clothing and accessories to home decor and gifts.
After shopping, visitors can head to one of the many theaters or performance venues in the area, to enjoy traditional Chinese opera or modern plays. The famous “Nanjing Drum Tower” is a popular destination for those looking to experience the city’s vibrant nightlife, with a variety of bars, clubs, and restaurants to choose from.
Ending the Night
As the night comes to a close, visitors can take a stroll along the streets of Gulou and take in the sights and sounds of the neighborhood. With its vibrant atmosphere, rich culture, and delicious cuisine, Gulou is a must-see destination for any tourist visiting Nanjing. Whether you’re looking to explore the markets, try local cuisine, visit cultural sites, or simply enjoy the nightlife, this neighborhood has something for everyone.
In conclusion, Nanjing’s Most Popular Neighborhood, Gulou is a perfect blend of history, culture, entertainment, and delicious local food. This neighborhood will definitely not disappoint a tourist visiting Nanjing.
