Nanjing

Nanjing XuanWuLake Purple and Mountain

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Pagoda at Qixia Temple Nanjing

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Nanjing Ming Xiaoling 2017.11.11 08-10-27

Nanjing WuchaoGate1

Nanjing (Simplified Chinese: 南京; Traditional Chinese: 南京; Pinyin: Nánjīng), the capital of Jiangsu Province in China, is a city with a rich heritage and a dynamic present. Situated in the eastern part of China, Nanjing has played a pivotal role in the country's history, serving as the capital of several Chinese dynasties, kingdoms, and republics, making it a significant cultural and historical center.

History

Nanjing's history dates back over 2,500 years, making it one of the four ancient capitals of China. It served as the capital for the Eastern Wu during the Three Kingdoms period, the Eastern Jin Dynasty, and more. Notably, it was the capital of the Ming Dynasty before the capital was relocated to Beijing. During the Second Sino-Japanese War, Nanjing was the site of the tragic Nanjing Massacre, a brutal event that has left a deep mark on the city's history and is commemorated by the Nanjing Massacre Memorial Hall.

Geography

Nanjing is located in the lower Yangtze River region, making it a crucial hub for transportation and commerce in eastern China. The city is surrounded by the Yangtze River to the west and the Qinhuai River flows through it, enhancing its scenic beauty and historical significance.

Economy

As a major center in China, Nanjing's economy is diverse, encompassing sectors such as electronics, car manufacturing, petrochemical, iron and steel, and power. It is also a significant educational hub, home to several of China's most prestigious universities, including Nanjing University.

Culture

Nanjing's cultural landscape is rich and varied, featuring landmarks such as the Confucius Temple (Fuzi Miao), the Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum, and the Ming Xiaoling Mausoleum. The city is also known for its traditional crafts, such as Nanjing brocade, and its vibrant cuisine, which is a key part of Jiangsu cuisine.

Transportation

The city boasts an extensive transportation network, including the Nanjing Metro, which facilitates local travel, and the Nanjing Lukou International Airport, connecting it to domestic and international destinations. Nanjing is also a major railway hub in eastern China, making it an accessible city for travelers.

Education

Nanjing is renowned for its educational institutions, with Nanjing University being one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in China. Other notable institutions include Southeast University and Nanjing Normal University, contributing to the city's reputation as a center for higher learning and research.

See Also

• History of China
• Yangtze River
• Jiangsu Province
• Chinese cities