NanjingOutdoor Escape Game & Treasure Hunt
The ancient imperial capital of a thousand faces
What to do in Nanjing, one of China's four great ancient capitals? Immerse yourself in a city where every stone tells millennia of history, from Ming emperors to republics. Nanjing offers an exceptional heritage, with iconic sites such as the majestic Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum, the immense City Wall, and the lively Confucius Temple district along the Qinhuai River. For an unusual activity, our outdoor escape games invite you to explore these emblematic places in a unique way. Transform your stroll into a captivating scavenger hunt, an urban treasure hunt that will reveal the city's hidden secrets. Whether you're with family, friends, or as a couple, it's an opportunity to enjoy a fun and enriching experience. Discover our trail in Nanjing below:
Nanjing, December 1937 — Uncover the Hidden Testimonies
Decipher survivor accounts and excavated evidence to expose the truth of the 1937 massacre and honor those whose voices were silenced.
The Celestial Decree — Uncover Hongwu's Hidden Prophecy
Decipher a forbidden imperial prophecy sealed within the stone guardians of Hongwu's tomb. Solve the riddles of the Ming founder's final decree before the truth is lost forever.
Nanjing — Taiping Heavenly Secrets
Uncover the hidden codes of the Taiping Heavenly Kingdom. Decode the secrets of Tianjing's rise and fall, exposing the conspiracy that doomed its celestial dream amid a brutal civil war.
Unusual things to do in Nanjing
For an unusual activity in Nanjing, our outdoor escape games are an excellent option. Far from classic guided tours, you'll explore historical districts and iconic sites such as along the Nanjing City Wall or around the Confucius Temple, searching for clues and solving puzzles. It's an original outing that allows you to see the city from a new angle, discovering architectural details or historical anecdotes that are not always noticed. The trails above transform the city into a giant playground, offering a unique perspective on Nanjing's rich past.
Things to do in Nanjing with kids
What to do with the family in Nanjing? Our outdoor escape games are an ideal activity for children and teenagers to discover the city. Accessible from 8 years old, they transform the visit into a real adventure where everyone can participate. Younger children will love searching for clues scattered in the streets and parks, while teenagers and adults will rack their brains to solve the puzzles. It's a teen-friendly outing that differs from traditional museums and guarantees moments of sharing and laughter. The GPS guidance system ensures a safe and fun route for the whole family.
Nanjing for couples
Nanjing for couples offers a romantic setting with its classical gardens, the Qinhuai River banks lit up at night, and breathtaking views from the City Wall. Our outdoor trails are perfect for a couples' outing or a romantic getaway. Share an unexpected romantic activity by solving puzzles together, hand in hand, while exploring historical alleyways and iconic sites. It's an original way to create memorable memories, away from the crowds, discovering Nanjing's hidden charms and enjoying an interactive and enriching stroll for two.
What to do in Nanjing when it rains
What to do in Nanjing when it rains? Although our escape games are outdoor, the city of Nanjing, with its numerous covered passages, imposing City Wall gates, and traditional temples, offers natural shelters. Approximately 60% of the trail can be done under the arcades of the Confucius Temple district or through the passages of the city gates. It's a wet-weather activity that reveals another side of Nanjing, when the cobblestones shine in the rain and the atmosphere becomes more intimate. Bring an umbrella and let yourself be surprised!
Where is Nanjing, and where do the routes start?
Starting points of our routes and the places they pass through.
Route starting points
Places in Nanjing
- Nanjing Massacre Memorial Hall (exterior)
- Remnants of Jiangdong Gate
- Historic building of Nanjing Normal University (former Ginling Women's College)
- John Rabe House (exterior)
- Former site of the International Committee for the Nanjing Safety Zone (exterior)
- Gulou Hospital (exterior, historic facade)
- Nanjing University main campus (in front of a historic building)
- Xinjiekou Square
- Dajinmen Gate
- Sifangcheng Pavilion
- Spirit Way - Lions
- Spirit Way - Camels and Elephants
- Spirit Way - Qilin and Horses
- Spirit Way - Wengzhong Guardians
- Lingxing Gate
- Fangcheng Square and Baocheng (Treasure City)
- Presidential Palace (exterior, main entrance)
- Zhonghua Gate of Nanjing City Wall (exterior)
The history of Nanjing
From Ancient Capital to Imperial Powerhouse
Nanjing's history dates to 472 BCE, when the Yue state built a castle near Yuhuatai. The city gained importance during the Three Kingdoms period (220–280 CE) when Sun Quan, founder of the Eastern Wu dynasty, made it his capital in 229 CE. This decision transformed Nanjing, then known as Jianye, into a political and cultural center, increasing foreign trade and prosperity.
By the mid-sixth century, Nanjing had become China's most culturally and economically advanced city, attracting craftsmen and artists from the north amid political unrest. The city served as the capital for numerous dynasties and regimes over 1,800 years, including the Eastern Jin, Southern Tang, and Ming dynasties. In 1368, the Hongwu Emperor, Zhu Yuanzhang, established the Ming Dynasty and made Nanjing his capital, renaming it Yingtianfu. He began the construction of an imperial palace and the Nanjing City Wall. However, in 1421, his son, the Yongle Emperor, moved the capital to Beijing, and Nanjing became a subsidiary capital.
A Tumultuous 20th Century
The 20th century brought significant changes to Nanjing. In 1912, after the Chinese Revolution, Nanjing was declared the seat of the provisional government of the Republic of China. Later, in 1928, Chiang Kai-shek's Nationalist government again made Nanjing the capital, leading to infrastructure and industry advancements. This growth was interrupted in December 1937, when the Imperial Japanese Army captured the city during the Second Sino-Japanese War. The subsequent six weeks saw the Nanjing Massacre, where an estimated 100,000 to over 300,000 Chinese civilians and disarmed soldiers were killed, and a third of the city's buildings were destroyed by arson. After World War II, Nanjing briefly resumed its role as the capital of the Republic of China until 1949, when the People's Republic of China was established with Beijing as its capital.
What to see in Nanjing
- Nanjing City Wall — This defensive structure, started in 1366 by the Hongwu Emperor, is one of the longest surviving city walls in China. Walk along sections of its 35.3-kilometer length. Its irregular shape follows the terrain, unlike the square walls of other ancient capitals. Look for the inscribed bricks, a feature not found in other city walls.
- Ming Xiaoling Mausoleum — The tomb complex of the Hongwu Emperor, founder of the Ming Dynasty, and Empress Ma. This UNESCO World Heritage site includes the Spirit Way, an avenue with stone statues of mythical creatures and officials.
- Dr. Sun Yat-sen's Mausoleum — Dedicated to Sun Yat-sen, this mausoleum is an architectural landmark. The site features staircases and pavilions leading to the burial chamber, with views of the Purple Mountain (Zijinshan) area.
- Nanjing Massacre Memorial Hall — This museum commemorates the victims of the 1937-1938 Nanjing Massacre. The exterior has stark architecture. The interior houses exhibits, documents, and personal accounts of the event.
- Confucius Temple (Fuzimiao) and Qinhuai River — This area combines ancient culture with street life. The Confucius Temple dates to the Song Dynasty and is a center for Confucian studies. The Qinhuai River, which flows through the district, has illuminated boats and traditional houses, visible in the evenings.
- Presidential Palace — This complex served as the seat of government for various regimes, including the provisional government of the Republic of China and Chiang Kai-shek's Nationalist government. Its architecture reflects different historical periods, from Chinese gardens to Western-style administrative buildings.
When to visit Nanjing
The best times to visit Nanjing are spring (March to May) and autumn (October to November). Spring has temperatures between 15°C and 25°C, with cherry and plum blossoms on Purple Mountain. March can be chilly and humid with unpredictable temperatures. Autumn offers cool, dry weather, with average highs around 22°C in October and colorful foliage.
Avoid visiting in summer (June to September) if possible, as Nanjing experiences hot and humid weather, often reaching 37-40°C in July and August. June is the wettest month. Winters (December to February) are cold, with average January lows around 0°C and occasional snow.
Getting around Nanjing
Nanjing Lukou International Airport (NKG) is about 35 kilometers from the urban area. Shuttle buses run every 30 minutes to the city center, stopping at locations like Yuhua Square and Zhongyangmen Long-Distance Bus Station. A taxi from the airport to downtown costs approximately RMB 80-100. Nanjing Railway Station and Nanjing South Railway Station provide high-speed train connections to major Chinese cities.
Within the city, the Nanjing Metro is an efficient way to travel, with fares from ¥2 to ¥9. Nine metro lines operate, with Lines 1, 2, 3, and 10 accessing most major attractions. Taxis are available, but traffic can be heavy during rush hours. Taxi lamps lit red indicate availability. Dedicated tourist bus lines (Y1-Y5) connect to attractions like Sun Yat-sen's Mausoleum and Ming Xiaoling Mausoleum.
Things you probably do not know about Nanjing
Verified details most visitors walk straight past.
- Nanjing City Wall
- What secret do the bricks of Nanjing's ancient city wall hold? Each of the nearly 100 million bricks used in the construction of the Nanjing City Wall carries inscriptions. These characters record the brick's origin, the official responsible for its making, and sometimes even the names of the workers, a unique practice not found in other city walls.
- John Rabe House
- Who was the 'Oskar Schindler of Nanjing' during the 1937 massacre? John Rabe, a German businessman and Nazi Party member, is often called the 'Oskar Schindler of Nanjing.' During the Nanjing Massacre in 1937, he helped establish the Nanjing Safety Zone, providing refuge for over 200,000 Chinese civilians and documenting the atrocities in his diaries.
- Nanjing Normal University (former Ginling Women's College)
- How did an American women's college play a crucial role during the Nanjing Massacre? The historic campus of Ginling Women's College, now part of Nanjing Normal University, became a sanctuary during the Nanjing Massacre. Its American staff, led by Minnie Vautrin, opened the college gates to thousands of Chinese women and children, providing them protection within the Nanjing Safety Zone.
- Spirit Way (Ming Xiaoling Mausoleum)
- Why do some of the stone animals along the Spirit Way at the Ming Xiaoling Mausoleum appear in pairs, one standing and one reclining? The pairs of stone animals along the Spirit Way, such as lions, camels, and elephants, are intentionally sculpted in alternating poses—one standing and one reclining. This design was meant to symbolize the emperor's power over both the living and the spiritual realms, and to allow visitors to appreciate the sculptures from different perspectives.
- Gulou Hospital
- What hidden history lies behind the historic facade of Gulou Hospital? Gulou Hospital, one of Nanjing's oldest Western-style hospitals, has a history intertwined with foreign missionaries. It was originally founded in 1892 by Dr. William Edward Macklin, a Canadian missionary, and played a significant role in introducing modern medicine to the region.
- Nanjing University main campus
- What unique architectural feature connects Nanjing University to its past as a former imperial academy? The main campus of Nanjing University, with its historic buildings, stands on the former site of the Imperial University (Guozijian), which was founded in 258 CE during the Three Kingdoms period and later relocated in 1381 during the Ming Dynasty. While the original structures are gone, the layout and some traditional architectural elements subtly echo its imperial academic heritage.
Questions about visiting Nanjing
How many days should I spend in Nanjing?
To experience Nanjing's key historical and cultural sites, a stay of 2 to 3 days is generally recommended. This allows enough time to visit major attractions like the Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum, Ming Xiaoling Mausoleum, and the Confucius Temple area at a comfortable pace.
What are the best neighborhoods to stay in Nanjing?
For first-time visitors, the Xinjiekou area is a central and convenient choice, offering shopping, dining, and easy access to metro lines. The Confucius Temple (Fuzimiao) district is excellent for those seeking a lively atmosphere and cultural immersion along the Qinhuai River.
Is Nanjing a good destination for families with children?
Yes, Nanjing offers several family-friendly attractions. Xuanwu Lake provides boating and park activities, while the Nanjing City Wall offers an engaging historical walk. The Nanjing Museum also has exhibits that can appeal to younger visitors, making it a good destination for families.
What is the local currency and what is the typical budget for a day in Nanjing?
The local currency is the Chinese Yuan (CNY). A moderate daily budget for Nanjing, covering meals, local transportation, and entrance fees to a few attractions, could range from 300 to 600 CNY per person, excluding accommodation.
How can I travel from Nanjing to other major cities in China?
Nanjing is a major transportation hub. You can travel to other cities by high-speed train from Nanjing South Railway Station or Nanjing Railway Station, with frequent connections to Shanghai (around 1-1.5 hours), Hangzhou (2 hours), and Beijing. Nanjing Lukou International Airport also offers domestic flights.
What are the public transportation options in Nanjing?
Nanjing has an extensive and efficient public transportation system. The metro (subway) is the easiest and cheapest way to get around, with multiple lines serving the city. Buses are also widely available, and taxis can be found throughout the city, though they may be harder to hail during peak hours.
Frequently asked questions
How much does an outdoor escape game in Nanjing cost?
Our outdoor escape game in Nanjing starts at €12 per team (1 phone). For multiple players on the same trail, it's €19 for 2 phones and €25 for 3. The price is fixed per team, making it a very affordable activity for a group of friends or a family.
Is it suitable for children / families?
Yes, our escape game in Nanjing is designed to be accessible from 8 years old, making it an excellent family activity. The puzzles are varied and require observation and thought from everyone. Children love the treasure hunt aspect, and the secure GPS guidance allows parents to enjoy the experience stress-free, exploring the city together.
How long does an outdoor escape game in Nanjing last?
Expect between 1h30 and 2h30 to complete our trail in Nanjing, depending on your pace and the time you take to solve the puzzles. Our games are self-guided, meaning you can start whenever you want and take breaks if needed, ideal for fitting into your sightseeing schedule.
Do I need to book in advance?
Online booking is not mandatory but is recommended, especially if you plan to play on weekends or public holidays. You receive an activation code instantly by email after purchase, usable whenever you wish, with no expiry date. This offers you complete flexibility to organize your activity.
What is Nanjing famous for? / What to visit in Nanjing?
Nanjing is famous for its imperial and republican history. Must-sees include the Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum, the imposing Nanjing City Wall offering panoramic views, and the lively Confucius Temple district along the Qinhuai River, known for its night lights and local cuisine. Our escape game incorporates these iconic locations into its trail, allowing you to discover them interactively.
When is the best season to visit Nanjing?
Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are the best seasons to visit Nanjing. Temperatures are mild, the weather is pleasant for outdoor activities, and the landscapes are beautiful, especially with spring blossoms or autumn colors. Summer can be hot and humid, while winter is cool but offers a calmer atmosphere.
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Activities to discover nearby
Guided tours, skip-the-line tickets and local experiences to book in advance.
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