The golden sunlight spills over the ancient city wall of Nanjing as the first ray of dawn breaks through the clouds. This is not just an ordinary morning; it is a wonderful day when the city’s past and present embrace each other warmly.
I start my day at the Qinhuai River. The river, like a silver ribbon, winds through the heart of the city. The stone bridges arch gently over the water, and the willow branches sway softly in the breeze, brushing the ripples that glisten in the sun. Elderly locals sit on the stone benches by the river, sipping tea and chatting in the dialect, their laughter mixing with the sound of birds chirping. A group of children chase each other along the bank, their kites dancing high in the sky—red, blue, and yellow, painting a vivid picture against the clear blue canvas.
As the morning sun climbs higher, I make my way to the Confucius Temple. The area is bustling with life, yet it retains a sense of tranquility that comes from centuries of history. The red walls and black tiles of the temple stand grandly, with carved beams and painted rafters telling stories of ancient scholars. Tourists from all over the world wander around, taking photos of the exquisite architecture and tasting local snacks—crispy duck blood vermicelli soup, sweet osmanthus cakes, and savory fried dumplings. The aroma of food lingers in the air, making every corner of the temple area feel warm and inviting.
In the afternoon, I head to the Nanjing Massacre Memorial Hall. The atmosphere here turns solemn, a reminder that the city’s wonderful present is built on the sacrifices of the past. The black marble walls are inscribed with the names of the victims, and the peaceful garden inside is a tribute to their memory. I stand in silence for a moment, feeling grateful for the peace we have today. This part of the day is not joyful, but it is meaningful—it makes me cherish the beauty of Nanjing even more.
As the sun sets, I go to the Xinjiekou Business District. The skyscrapers light up one by one, turning the city into a sea of neon lights. People walk along the streets, shopping, dining, and enjoying the vibrant nightlife. The contrast between the modern high-rises and the nearby ancient buildings is striking—Nanjing is a city that never forgets its roots while moving forward bravely.
I end my day sitting on a bench by the Xuanwu Lake, watching the moon rise slowly over the water. The lake is calm, and the distant city lights twinkle like stars. I think about all the things I’ve seen today—the ancient walls, the lively markets, the solemn memorial hall, and the modern skyline. They all come together to make Nanjing a city of charm and character.
This is truly a wonderful day for Nanjing—a day that shows the city’s beauty, history, and vitality all at once.
