Nanjing Six Dynasties Capital Duck City

N/L Sound Swap: Locals pronounce Nanjing as "Lanjing" due to dialect quirk - initial N becomes L in speech, "grandmother (nǎinai)" becomes "lǎilai". Duck Obsession Rivals Pandas: Every neighborhood has 3+ duck shops, locals debate which shop makes best salted duck with religious fervor, duck consumption higher per capita than anywhere in China. Eating in Metro Banned: You can carry food but absolutely cannot eat or drink on subway - fines enforced, locals give death stares to violators. Shared E-Scooters Vanished: Unlike other Chinese cities, Nanjing removed shared electric scooters, locals still bitter about it. Sweet Buns Philosophy: Nanjing baozi and dumplings are sweet not spicy - complete opposite of Sichuan, locals judge your character by whether you prefer sweet or savory. City Wall Walking Tradition: Climbing city wall on 16th day of first lunar month to "tread peace" and ward off illness - centuries-old custom still practiced.

Qinhuai Lantern Festival (February/March): Hundreds of thousands of red lanterns illuminate Confucius Temple area along Qinhuai River - locals pray for family happiness and good harvest, tradition dating to Tang Dynasty. Plum Blossom Festival (February): 35,000 plum trees bloom on Purple Mountain in purples, pinks, oranges - locals celebrate city flower with traditional music and dance, entire families picnic under blossoms. Tomb Sweeping Day (April 4-6): Families visit ancestors' graves, clean tombstones, leave offerings - locals fly kites and have spring picnics in parks after cemetery visits. Dragon Boat Festival (June): Locals eat zongzi rice dumplings, watch dragon boat races on Xuanwu Lake, commemorate ancient poet Qu Yuan. Mid-Autumn Festival (September): Moon viewing parties everywhere, locals gather at Xuanwu Lake and city wall for best views, mooncake debates intense. Gucheng Lake Hairy Crab Festival (September-November): Fall celebration of buttery hairy crabs from Gaochun County - locals travel to villages for authentic crab feasts, peak season obsession.

Chinese New Year (Spring Festival) - January/February: 15-day celebration with family reunions, temple fairs at Fuzimiao, fireworks displays, locals travel home from across China. Qinhuai Lantern Festival - Late February: Massive lantern displays along Qinhuai River, locals solve riddles on lanterns, eat tangyuan sweet dumplings for family unity. International Plum Blossom Festival - Late February/March: Purple Mountain comes alive with 35,000 plum trees blooming, locals have elaborate picnics, traditional music performances throughout park. Gucheng Lake Hairy Crab Festival - September-October: Fall obsession with buttery hairy crabs, locals drive to Gaochun County villages for authentic feasts paired with yellow wine. Rain Flower Stone Festival - September: Celebration of Nanjing's unique sedimentary stones, exhibitions and stone-picking tours, locals debate best specimens. National Day Golden Week - October 1-7: Major holiday week, locals either travel domestically or avoid tourist sites completely due to crowds.

Nanjing Salted Duck at Neighborhood Shops: Locals avoid supermarket duck near attractions - old neighborhood building shops have fresher, tastier, cheaper duck (¥35-50 whole duck). True Nanjing specialty predates Peking Duck historically. Duck Blood Vermicelli Soup: Silky vermicelli noodles in rich broth with duck blood, duck liver, tofu - locals eat for breakfast without shame, street stalls ¥12-20, Fuzimiao area has hundreds of variations. Pan-Fried Beef Dumplings (Guotie): City's most beloved snack after duck, crispy bottom and juicy filling - locals line up at LiJi Qing Zhen Guan, never call them potstickers. Nanjing Impressions Restaurant: Multiple branches throughout city where locals take visiting relatives - seasonal menus feature authentic Jinling cuisine, ¥60-120 per person. Plum Garden at Jinling Hotel: 40+ year institution for Nanjing's finest salted duck - locals save this for special occasions, ¥150-300 per person. Soup Dumplings (Xiaolongbao): Nanjing-style are sweeter than Shanghai's famous version - locals debate authenticity endlessly, eat with black vinegar and ginger. Pig Trtle Noodles Local Secret: Locals eat them with sugarcane juice and grilled - combination sounds bizarre but traditional pairing.

Ancient Capital Pride: Six dynasties made Nanjing capital over 1,800 years - locals consider themselves more cultured than Beijing, historically superior to Shanghai. Face Culture (Mianzi): Social reputation crucial but less intense than Beijing, locals navigate gift-giving and respect protocols with more flexibility than northern cities, similar to Chengdu's slow-living philosophy. Educational Superiority Complex: Multiple top universities including Nanjing University - locals proud of intellectual heritage, students dominate certain neighborhoods like Xianlin. Memory and Memorialization: 1937 Nanjing Massacre shapes collective consciousness - locals approach history with solemn respect, December 13 marked with city-wide sirens and moment of silence. Jiangsu Provincial Capital Status: Locals aware they're overshadowed by Shanghai economically but maintain cultural superiority attitude. Slower Than Shanghai, Faster Than Chengdu: Moderate pace of life - not rushed like Beijing/Shanghai but more business-oriented than Chengdu teahouse culture.

Mandarin Basics:

• "Nǐ hǎo" (nee how) = hello
• "Xièxie" (syeh-syeh) = thank you
• "Duìbuqǐ" (dway-boo-chee) = excuse me/sorry
• "Duōshao qián?" (dwoh-shao chyen) = how much?
• "Tài guì le" (tie gway luh) = too expensive
• "Zàijiàn" (zai-jyen) = goodbye

Nanjing Dialect Peculiarities:

• "Lǎnjīn" (lan-jin) = Nanjing (locals say L not N)
• "Nóng" (nung) = you (like Shanghai dialect)
• "Fàn xián" (fan syan) = troublesome
• "Xiǎo gǎnzi" (syao gan-zih) = young lad
• "Pān xī" (pan shee) = young girl
• "Tǐng shī" (ting shir) = sleep (literally "lying corpse")

Food Essentials:

• "Yā" (yah) = duck (you'll hear this constantly)
• "Yán shuǐ yā" (yen shway yah) = salted duck
• "Hǎo chī" (how chir) = delicious
• "Bú là" (boo lah) = not spicy
• "Shuǐ" (shway) = water
• "Píjiǔ" (pee-jyoh) = beer

Nanjing Metro System:

• Distance-based pricing ¥2-15, most trips within city ¥2-6
• Lines 1-2 connect major areas, trains every 3-5 minutes rush hour
• New passes since April 2025: 1-day ¥20, 3-day ¥45 unlimited rides
• Eating/drinking strictly prohibited, locals give harsh looks to violators

City Buses:

• ¥1 regular buses, ¥2 air-conditioned buses, exact change or Alipay/WeChat Pay
• Extensive network covers all areas, locals use for areas without metro
• Jinlingtong transportation card offers 20% bus discount, 5% metro discount

Shared Bikes Only (No E-Scooters):

• Very few shared electric scooters compared to other Chinese cities - locals still complain
• Shared bikes everywhere, Hellobike and Meituan most common
• ¥1.50-2 per 30 minutes, locals use for last-mile connections

Taxi and Ride-Hailing:

• Didi ride-hailing app standard, locals never use street taxis
• Starting fare ¥9-11, short trips ¥15-30
• Drivers may not speak English, have destination in Chinese characters

High-Speed Rail Hub:

• Nanjing South Station connects to Shanghai (1 hour), Beijing (3.5 hours)
• Locals use for weekend trips, tickets ¥135-200 to Shanghai
• Book via 12306 app or Trip.com, arrive 30 minutes early

Food & Drinks:

• Street food: ¥8-25 per item (duck blood soup ¥12-20, pan-fried dumplings ¥10-18)
• Local restaurant: ¥40-80 per person for filling meal
• Nanjing Impressions: ¥60-120 per person with drinks
• Coffee: ¥15-35, tea: ¥10-25, local beer: ¥8-20
• Whole salted duck: ¥35-50 at neighborhood shops, ¥60-90 at fancy places
• Soup dumplings: ¥8-15 per basket

Groceries (Local Markets):

• Weekly shop for two: ¥250-600
• Fresh vegetables: ¥3-12 per bunch
• Pork: ¥25-50/kg, duck: ¥30-60/kg
• Rice: ¥4-10/kg
• Local seasonal fruits: ¥5-20/kg

Activities & Transport:

• Museum entry: ¥30-80 (many free with ID)
• Metro: ¥2-6 per journey, 1-day pass ¥20
• Bus: ¥1-2 per journey
• City wall entry: ¥30-50 (some sections free)
• Boat ride Qinhuai River: ¥60-100
• Purple Mountain cable car: ¥60-80
• Bike rental: ¥1.50-2 per 30 minutes

Accommodation:

• Budget hostel: ¥80-200/night
• Mid-range hotel: ¥300-600/night
• Luxury hotel: ¥800-2000+/night
• Locals recommend Xinjiekou area for convenience, Fuzimiao for atmosphere

Year-Round Basics:

• Humid subtropical climate, four distinct seasons, pack layers essential
• Sun protection year-round, UV strong in summer
• Comfortable walking shoes for exploring city wall and mountains
• Locals dress modestly, avoid overly revealing clothing

Seasonal Guide:

Spring (Mar-May): 12-25°C

• Beautiful weather for outdoor activities, plum blossoms in February-March
• Locals wear light layers, sweaters and light jackets
• Occasional rain showers, pack compact umbrella
• Peak tourist season, book accommodations early
• Perfect for city wall walks and Purple Mountain hikes

Summer (Jun-Sep): 25-40°C

• One of China's "Three Furnace Cities" - extremely hot and humid
• Plum rain season late June-early July, heavy downpours
• Locals wear breathable cotton, seek air-conditioned spaces midday
• Sunscreen, sunglasses, hat essential - UV intense
• Early morning and evening activities preferred, avoid noon-3 PM
• Many locals escape to mountains or stay indoors

Autumn (Oct-Nov): 15-25°C

• Best time to visit - comfortable, dry weather
• Osmanthus flowers bloom throughout city, sweet scent everywhere
• Locals wear light sweaters, thin jackets for evening
• Perfect weather for all outdoor activities and walking
• Peak hairy crab season, food culture at its best

Winter (Dec-Feb): 0-10°C

• Cold and damp despite being southern city, occasional snow
• Locals wear warm layers, down jackets essential
• Indoor heating less common than north, buildings feel colder inside
• Fewer tourists, locals enjoy hot soup and indoor attractions
• Plum blossoms start blooming late January-February

Evening Social Scene:

• Language Exchange at Various Cafes: Tuesday/Thursday evenings, mixed Chinese/English, free just buy drinks
• Philosophy Corner at Bluesky Bar: Sunday 7 PM, informal debates, expats and locals mix
• Live Music at 1912 District: Traditional Sichuan opera and modern bands, locals attend regularly
• Ellen's Bar Free Beer Thursdays: Young expat and student scene, Shanghai Lu location

Sports & Recreation:

• Su-per League Football Matches: Grassroots league games at Olympic Sports Centre, locals treat as community events
• Beach Volleyball Pickup Games: Not applicable (inland city), but basketball courts in every neighborhood
• Morning Tai Chi Groups: Xuanwu Lake and Purple Mountain 6 AM, anyone welcome to join
• University Sports Clubs: Nanjing University area, students welcome participants

Cultural Activities:

• Yunjin Brocade Weaving Classes: Museum offers workshops, locals learn traditional crafts
• Calligraphy at Lao Cui Teahouse: Combined with tea ceremony, ¥150-200 per person
• Chinese Opera at Nanjing Museum: Daily 2 PM performances, ¥10 includes tea
• Traditional Cooking Classes: Local families teach Jinling cuisine, ¥200-300 per session

Volunteer Opportunities:

• English Teaching: Many locals seek language exchange partners
• Community Projects: Neighborhood improvement initiatives in older districts
• Cultural Exchange: Help at international student centers
• Environmental Conservation: Purple Mountain cleanup events occasionally organized

Qinhuai River Night Cruise: Boat ride along historic river when buildings light up at night - locals recommend 7-9 PM for magical atmosphere, ¥60-100 per person, purchase tickets at Fuzimiao dock. Nanjing City Wall Sunset Walk: Climb 600-year-old Ming Dynasty wall at Xuanwu Gate - locals walk at sunset for stunning lake views, each brick stamped with maker's name, free entry to many sections. Chinese Opera at Nanjing Museum: Traditional performances daily at 2 PM - locals pay ¥10 for tea and enjoy authentic opera, museum itself free with ID reservation. Yunjin Brocade Museum Weaving Demonstration: Watch artisans using 1,600-year-old techniques on ancient looms - recognized as UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage, locals appreciate this living tradition, free entry, ¥80-500 for authentic brocade pieces. Traditional Tea Ceremony at Lao Cui Teahouse: Built into city wall, includes calligraphy class - locals recommend for authentic cultural experience, ¥150-200 per person. Purple Mountain Cable Car to Zijin Observatory: Morning ride up mountain where you'll find the UNESCO World Heritage Ming Xiaoling Mausoleum among other historical treasures, locals visit at 6-7 AM to avoid crowds and catch sunrise, combined ticket ¥60-80. Xuanwu Lake Dawn Exercise: Join locals at 6 AM for tai chi, singing, dancing, kite flying - completely free, authentic local life experience. Philosophy Corner at Bluesky Bar: Sunday evening informal discussions - expats and locals debate philosophy over drinks, Shanghai Lu location, free entry just buy drinks.

Fuzimiao (Confucius Temple) Area:

• Historic market area along Qinhuai River - locals shop for traditional crafts, souvenirs, street food
• Best after 6 PM when lanterns light up, avoid middle of day crowds
• "Yunjin Jiadi" for authentic brocade, locals verify authenticity here
• Street vendors negotiable, shop prices fixed - know the difference

Chaotiangong Antique Market:

• Weekends only 8 AM-5 PM - locals hunt for jade, antiques, traditional crafts
• Serious bargaining required, start at 30-40% asking price
• Locals bring expert friends to verify authenticity
• Morning 8-10 AM best selection before picked over

Xinjiekou Shopping District:

• "China's No. 1 Business Circle" - massive malls, locals shop for fashion and electronics
• Deji Plaza for luxury brands (locals window shop), Central Mall for mid-range
• Suning Plaza for electronics and streetwear, locals compare prices between stores
• Less authentic than markets but air-conditioned comfort in summer

Neighborhood Morning Markets:

• Various locations throughout residential areas 6-9 AM
• Locals shop for freshest vegetables, meat, duck at family-run stalls
• Prices better than supermarkets, relationship building with vendors important
• Cash more common than digital payment at small stalls

Supermarket Tips:

• Carrefour and Hema Fresh popular with younger locals
• Local brands much cheaper than imported goods
• Evening 6-8 PM discounts on prepared foods and fresh items
• Reusable bags appreciated, locals always bring their own

Xuanwu Lake Dawn to Dusk:

• Locals walk/jog around 10km loop at dawn, tai chi groups practice at 6 AM, families paddle boat at sunset
• Free entry, rent bikes ¥20/hour, paddle boats ¥30-50/hour
• Locals fly kites, sing opera, play traditional instruments - authentic daily life scene

Purple Mountain Forest Escape:

• Locals hike various trails avoiding main tourist routes, best in early morning before 8 AM
• Autumn osmanthus flower season most popular, sweet scent fills mountain paths
• Free hiking, locals know hidden trails and quiet temple spots

Qinhuai River Evening Strolls:

• Locals walk along river after dinner when lanterns illuminate traditional buildings
• Avoid tourist boat rides, walk the banks for free atmosphere
• Small vendors sell local snacks, elderly locals practice calligraphy on pavement

City Wall Sections for Quiet Walks:

• Locals prefer less-visited sections like Zhonghua Gate over Xuanwu Gate
• Sunset walks most popular, couples meet for dates, photographers capture golden hour
• Some sections free, others ¥30-50, locals buy annual pass ¥100

Mochou Lake Park Weekend Gatherings:

• Tranquil alternative to Xuanwu Lake, locals have picnics and rent paddle boats
• Various entertainment options for children, families spend entire Sundays here
• Early morning most peaceful, locals practice instruments and meditation

Kuanzhai Alley Morning Peace:

• Before tourist crowds arrive at 9 AM, locals walk through historic hutongs
• Street vendors sell breakfast, elderly locals practice tai chi in small squares
• Authentic neighborhood life before commercial day begins

Traditional Teahouses (Cháguan):

• Lao Cui Teahouse built into city wall - locals conduct business over endless jasmine tea
• Different from Chengdu bamboo chair culture, more focused on conversation than games
• Afternoon tea culture for older generation, younger locals prefer coffee shops

Duck Specialty Shops (Yā Diàn):

• Every neighborhood has family-run duck shops with decades of tradition
• Locals have fierce loyalty to their neighborhood shop, never buy at supermarkets
• Early morning purchase ritual - best duck sold out by 10 AM

Night Market Food Streets:

• Fuzimiao area transforms at night, plastic stools and shared tables
• Locals eat street snacks standing up, no pretense atmosphere
• Duck blood soup, pan-fried dumplings, grilled skewers under string lights

Expat Bars (Shanghai Lu Area):

• Bluesky Bar (Australian-style), Ellen's Bar (young expat central)
• Locals mix with international community, language exchange hub
• "Free Beer Thursdays" at Ellen's legendary among university crowd

1912 District Venues:

• Historic area with mix of Chinese restaurants, western pubs, dance clubs
• Locals go for special occasions and dates, more upscale than street culture
• Named after founding year of Republic of China, nostalgic architecture

Shanghai Rivalry Jokes:

• Nanjing locals joke Shanghai people only care about money, no culture
• "Shanghai has buildings, Nanjing has history" - said with pride
• Friendly rivalry over which city is true Jiangsu representative

Duck Pride and Annoyance:

• Locals simultaneously proud of duck tradition and tired of duck questions
• "We eat other things too" - common response to tourists
• Duck shop density becomes running joke among younger generation

Pronunciation Trolling:

• Locals know their N/L dialect confusion amuses outsiders
• Deliberately say "Lanjing" to foreign friends to see confusion
• Some locals switch back to proper N pronunciation around outsiders for fun

Capital Complex Humor:

• "We were capital when Beijing was frontier town" - historical one-upmanship
• Jokes about being real cultural center versus Beijing's political power
• Self-deprecating humor about not being current capital

University Student Invasion:

• Older locals joke about students taking over entire neighborhoods
• "Xianlin more college campus than city" - mixed pride and complaint
• Students bring energy but also noise and bike chaos

Sun Yat-sen (1866-1925):

• Father of Modern China, established national government in Nanjing, his mausoleum on Purple Mountain pilgrimage site for locals
• Every Nanjing resident knows his significance, statue symbolizes city
• Locals visit tomb on national holidays and his birthday

Hongwu Emperor (1328-1398):

• Founded Ming Dynasty, made Nanjing capital, his mausoleum at Purple Mountain
• Locals credit him with city's golden age and architectural heritage
• City wall he built still surrounds old city, source of local pride

Lu Xun (1881-1936):

• Modern writer who studied in Nanjing, locals recognize his critical social commentary
• Represents intellectual tradition Nanjing locals value

Pearl S. Buck (1892-1973):

• American author who lived in Nanjing, won Nobel Prize for Literature
• Locals remember her as bridge between Chinese and Western culture
• Her novels about China still read by educated Nanjing residents

Cultural Heritage Icons:

• "Jasmine Flower" folk song originated in Nanjing - locals recognize as regional anthem
• Jinling Qin School (guqin music) - World Intangible Cultural Heritage from Nanjing
• "Dream of Red Mansions" novel connected to Nanjing (called Jinling in book) - locals proud of literary legacy

Su-per League Football Passion:

• Nanjing team nicknamed after city's salted duck, relocated matches from Wutaishan to Olympic Sports Centre for growing crowds
• Grassroots football league where players are ordinary locals not hired professionals, fans treat games like family reunions
• City offers direct high-speed trains for away fans, discounts at 30 attractions and 80 restaurants with match ticket
• Locals say "players are not hired with high salaries but ordinary people around us - relatives, friends, citizens"

University Basketball Culture:

• Nanjing University has high-level men's and women's basketball teams, locals follow collegiate competitions intensely
• 2019 FIBA Basketball World Cup hosted here, strong sports infrastructure and fan culture
• Evening pickup games at university courts, students and young professionals play until 10 PM

Table Tennis Everywhere:

• Community courts in every neighborhood, locals play before and after work
• China's national sport, everyone knows how to play, evening competitions under street lights
• Cross-generational activity, grandparents teach grandchildren proper technique

Morning Exercise Culture:

• Xuanwu Lake and People's Park filled with synchronized tai chi at 6 AM, anyone can join
• Locals practice traditional dance, martial arts, Chinese chess in public spaces
• Social bonding through physical activity, older generation leads younger participants

Pig Trtle Noodles with Sugarcane Juice:

• Traditional pairing locals swear by - sweet juice balances rich pork flavor
• Outsiders find combination bizarre, Nanjing locals defend it passionately

Sweet Soup Dumplings (Xiaolongbao):

• Nanjing version sweeter than Shanghai style - northerners expect savory, get surprise
• Locals consider this authentic, Shanghai version the aberration
• Sugar content in filling shocks first-time visitors

Duck with Osmanthus Flowers:

• Seasonal combination when osmanthus blooms in autumn
• Fragrant flowers infused with duck preparation, sweet-savory balance
• Locals eat this during Mid-Autumn Festival tradition

Salted Duck with Sweet Rice Wine:

• Cold salty duck paired with warm sweet fermented rice drink
• Temperature and flavor contrast locals crave
• Late-night street food stands serve this combination

Cold Noodles with Sesame Paste in Winter:

• Most cities eat hot noodles in winter, Nanjing locals prefer cold
• Rich sesame paste makes dish filling despite temperature
• Street vendors sell year-round regardless of weather

Buddhist Temple Visits: Jiming Temple on hillside offers incense burning and prayer - locals visit for family health and business success, beautiful sunrise views over Xuanwu Lake. Linggu Temple at Purple Mountain: Active Buddhist site where locals attend ceremonies and festivals, vegetarian restaurant popular for authentic temple food. China Christian Study Center Hub: Nanjing serves as national Protestant hub with major seminaries - religious diversity more visible than many Chinese cities. Hui Muslim Community: Geda Miaope sect has strong presence - locals respect halal restaurants throughout city, Lvliuju Restaurant famous for 100+ year halal tradition. Ancestor Worship Blended: Many locals blend Buddhist, Taoist, and Confucian beliefs without contradiction - family altars at home with incense and food offerings for deceased relatives. Confucius Temple (Fuzimiao): More cultural than religious now but locals still recognize Confucian values of education and respect for elders permeating society.

Payment Methods:

• WeChat Pay and Alipay universal - locals use phones for 99% of purchases
• Cash accepted but increasingly rare, vendors give annoyed looks
• Credit cards accepted at major malls and hotels only
• Link foreign card to WeChat/Alipay before arrival essential
• ATMs available but locals never use them

Bargaining Culture:

• Fixed prices in shops and restaurants - no bargaining
• Fuzimiao markets have some flexibility, start at 40-50% of asking price
• Locals walk away if price too high, vendors often call back
• Yunjin brocade - verify authenticity at museum shop, street vendors sell fakes
• Antique market bargaining expected, locals start negotiations at 30%

Shopping Hours:

• 9:30 AM - 9:00 PM standard for most shops
• Many stores open until 10 PM in shopping districts like Xinjiekou
• No siesta culture like south Europe, locals shop throughout afternoon
• Weekend crowds intense at Fuzimiao, locals prefer weekday evenings
• Markets busiest 10 AM-2 PM and 6-8 PM

Tax & Receipts:

• Tax included in all displayed prices
• Tax refund available for foreign tourists at designated stores, show passport
• Keep receipts for expensive purchases, locals always request fapiao
• Major malls offer multi-language staff during peak tourist seasons

Absolute Essentials:

• "Nǐ hǎo" (nee how) = hello
• "Xièxie" (syeh-syeh) = thank you
• "Duìbuqǐ" (dway-boo-chee) = excuse me/sorry
• "Duōshao qián?" (dwoh-shao chyen) = how much?
• "Tài guì le" (tie gway luh) = too expensive
• "Zàijiàn" (zai-jyen) = goodbye
• "Bù" (boo) = no
• "Shì" (shih) = yes
• "Wǒ bù míngbai" (woh boo ming-bai) = I don't understand
• "Nǐ huì shuō Yīngyǔ ma?" (nee hway shwoh ying-yoo mah) = Do you speak English?

Daily Greetings:

• "Nǐ hǎo ma?" (nee how mah) = how are you?
• "Wǒ hěn hǎo" (woh hun how) = I'm fine
• "Zǎoshang hǎo" (zao-shang how) = good morning
• "Wǎnshang hǎo" (wan-shang how) = good evening
• "Xièxie nǐ" (syeh-syeh nee) = thank you (formal)

Numbers & Practical:

• "Yī, èr, sān" (ee, err, sahn) = one, two, three
• "Sì, wǔ, liù" (sih, woo, lee-oh) = four, five, six
• "Qī, bā, jiǔ, shí" (chee, bah, jyoh, shih) = seven, eight, nine, ten
• "Zài nǎr?" (zai nar) = where is it?
• "Duō yuǎn?" (dwoh ywan) = how far?
• "Cèsuǒ zài nǎr?" (tsuh-swoh zai nar) = where is the toilet?

Food & Dining:

• "Yā" (yah) = duck
• "Yán shuǐ yā" (yen shway yah) = salted duck
• "Hǎo chī" (how chir) = delicious
• "Shuǐ" (shway) = water
• "Píjiǔ" (pee-jyoh) = beer
• "Chá" (chah) = tea
• "Mǎidān" (my-dan) = check please
• "Bú là" (boo lah) = not spicy

Authentic Local Products:

• Yunjin Brocade: UNESCO heritage cloud brocade with 1,600-year history - ¥80-500 for small pieces, ¥1000+ for garments, buy only at Nanjing Yunjin Brocade Museum or vetted "Yunjin Jiadi" at Fuzimiao, street vendors sell synthetic fakes
• Rain Flower Stones (Yuhua Pebbles): Natural agate in gorgeous colors - ¥20-200 depending on quality, locals make into jewelry, symbol of Nanjing
• Jinling Gold Leaf: Ultra-thin gold sheets (less than 0.1 micrometers) - ¥40-300 for decorative items, unique craftsmanship
• Nanjing Salted Duck (Vacuum-Packed): Shelf-stable version ¥30-60, airport shops acceptable quality

Handcrafted Items:

• Nanjing Bamboo Carvings: Intricate detail work - ¥60-400, locals buy from artisan shops not tourist stalls
• Paper Cutting Art: UNESCO Intangible Heritage - ¥15-150 depending on complexity
• Traditional Ceramics: Local workshops near Fuzimiao - ¥50-300
• Yuhua Stone Carvings: Landscapes and nature scenes - ¥80-500 from skilled artisans

Edible Souvenirs:

• Salted Duck (Vacuum-Packed): Authentic taste, 7-day shelf life refrigerated - ¥30-60
• Local Tea Varieties: Jasmine and green tea - ¥40-200 per 100g
• Osmanthus Products: Honey, wine, dried flowers - ¥25-120
• Traditional Pastries: Local sweet shops near Fuzimiao - ¥20-80 per box

Where Locals Actually Shop:

• Nanjing Yunjin Brocade Museum: Only place for authentic brocade, government-certified
• Fuzimiao "Yunjin Jiadi": Vetted for authenticity, locals trust this shop
• Chaotiangong Antique Market: Weekends for traditional items, bring expert friend
• Xinjiekou Department Stores: Fixed prices, no bargaining but quality guaranteed
• Avoid Street Vendors: "Cheap Yunjin" is synthetic, locals warn against tourist trap vendors

Family-Friendliness Rating: 8/10 - Very family-friendly with excellent facilities and welcoming culture toward children

Local Family Cultural Context:

• Multi-generational households common - grandparents heavily involved in childcare while parents work, children raised with traditional values and Confucian respect for elders
• Educational pressure intense - Nanjing families prioritize education given city's university reputation, children's schedules packed with after-school tutoring
• Public space family culture - parks like Xuanwu Lake filled with families on weekends, three generations spending entire days together
• Historical education emphasis - local families regularly visit museums and memorial sites to teach children about history and culture

Nanjing-Specific Family Traditions:

• Purple Mountain Family Hikes: Sunday tradition where families climb together, children learn about Sun Yat-sen and historical significance
• City Wall Walking Legacy: Families walk sections of ancient wall together, children learn about Ming Dynasty history while exercising
• Duck Culture Introduction: Children learn to appreciate salted duck from young age, families debate favorite neighborhood shops
• Qinhuai Lantern Festival Participation: Multi-generational family outings where children learn lantern riddles and cultural traditions

Practical Family Travel Info:

• Stroller Accessibility: Most major areas stroller-friendly but old city cobblestones challenging, locals use lightweight umbrella strollers for tight spaces
• Baby Facilities: Changing rooms in all major malls (Deji Plaza, Central Mall), high chairs standard at restaurants, baby food widely available at supermarkets
• Family Activities: Hongshan Forest Zoo (¥40 adults, free for children under 1.2m), Nanjing Underwater World (dolphin shows), Xuanwu Lake paddle boats (¥30-50/hour)
• Transportation: Not all metro stations have elevators, locals master escalators with strollers, taxis more convenient for families
• Safety: Very safe for children, locals let kids play independently in parks, police presence strong, family-friendly public transport
• Dining: Most restaurants welcome children enthusiastically, provide special seats and kids' portions, duck blood soup surprisingly popular with local children