China Travel Prep
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Jiangsu
Nanjing arrival guide
An easy rail-linked city if you choose between Xinjiekou convenience and scenic districts.
Use this guide, then check your own details
Prepare the hotel information you will need on arrival.
The arrival check creates a driver card only from Chinese details you confirm; otherwise it gives you a verification checklist.
Before you fly
Save these before arrival
- Check South Station vs main Nanjing Station for rail.
- Pick lodging near a metro line.
- Save hotel address in Chinese.
Arrival points
- Nanjing Lukou Airport (NKG)
- Nanjing South Railway Station
- Nanjing Railway Station
Stay zones
- Xinjiekou
- Confucius Temple / Qinhuai
- Near Nanjing South for rail
First movement
Airport or station to lodging
Metro is strong from rail stations; use a car from the airport with luggage.
First day anchor
Keep the first day simple
Qinhuai river area or a short Xinjiekou food stop.
Getting around
Local transport basics
- Metro is strong from both rail stations; use a car from the airport with luggage.
- Pay for the metro with an Alipay/WeChat transit QR or a single-journey ticket; both are easy once your wallet works.
- Pick lodging near a metro line for an easy first day.
Common mistakes
What first-timers get caught out by
- Not checking Nanjing South vs the main Nanjing station for rail.
- Booking lodging away from the metro.
- Use the official taxi queue or DiDi — never accept a ride from someone who approaches you inside the terminal.