Encountering with Nanjing in Summer - Exploring Qinhuai River without Any Worries

(Photo: Qinhuai River; Source: 699pic.com)

In the 2500-year historical vicissitudes, some things are still here, but men are no more the same ones. Except for the old carved beams and painted rafters, only the ever-flowing Qinhuai River is still full of the gaily-painted pleasure boats, the sound of oars from time to time, and the bustling crowds.

Qinhuai River, as one of the origins of Jinling culture, has experienced the historical evolution and prosperity of the Six Dynasties and has been favored by men of literature and writing for thousands of years. Therefore, it is the top priority for everyone to visit Nanjing.

In ancient times, countless pubs prevailed on both sides of the Qinhuai River, whereas merchant ships kept shuttling across the river. Also, literati tended to gather here to seek inspiration, create poems, or engage in phrase-mongering to show their elegant demeanor. In contrast, on the gaily-painted pleasure boats, the ancient people who lingered here were in the continuous sound of oars and charming lights. Those girls are singing merrily and dancing gracefully, playing ethereal music that could be heard without end. The scenes of stories concerning gifted scholars and beautiful ladies added a touch of romance to Qinhuai River, which caused numerous people's sighs at all times and of all ages.

Although there are no numerous pubs in the Qinhuai River now, the classical small buildings built by the water and the teeth-like eaves are indistinguishable from the old ones. Those magnificent pavilions are still arranged in rows. Also, gaily-painted pleasure boats still shuttle on the Qinhuai River, like a spectacle that brings every spectator back to the old days.

The scenery of Qinhuai River is different in four seasons, showing their own unique charm. Only the Qinhuai River in summer reflects a more vivid jollification-oriented atmosphere. Unlike winter, which is trapped in the misty rain, the summer of Qinhuai River is more brilliant in the dense heat. Especially, with the fall of night, the dim lights formed by the colorfully decorated lantern will set off a classical and gorgeous picture of the antique buildings on both sides of the Qinhuai River. Countless beautiful elements, including overhanging eaves, ornamental perforated windows, carved beams, painted rafters, magnificent pavilions, drifting gaily-painted pleasure boats, the sound of paddles and light shadows, as well as the endless rowing boats, jointly form a dreamlike beautiful scenery, which will all flood into your field of vision with the cool summer breeze.

(Photo: Nightscape of Confucius Temple in Qinhuai Scenic Belt; Source: Nanjing Municipal Administration of Culture and Tourism)

The two dragons on the Qinhuai River are of great momentum, looking gorgeous and brilliant against the backdrop of bright lights. The dense wood on both sides of the Qinhuai River hides ordinary people who live in houses with green tiles and white walls. A myriad of gaily-painted pleasure boats engraved with exquisite patterns are floating and gliding slowly on the Qinhuai River. Everyone is capable of enjoying the beautiful scenery of the river on the shore or the beautiful scenery on both sides of the river on gaily-painted pleasure boats. They complement each other, and together, they present every visitor with incredible fairyland-like beauty.

Different from the hustle and bustle of the Confucius Temple scenic spot in Qinhuai River, Shui Street in Qinhuai River has a more quiet and secluded scenery with fewer tourists. This street is not long. There are some small buildings with Ming and Qing styles on the North Street, while the South Street is full of Chinese classical courtyards. In addition, it is surrounded by a river with a length of nearly 200 meters. At night, with the lights on, it becomes like a city that never sleeps, shining with beautiful lights. Rowing boats of the Qinhuai River shuttle through it, leading you to witness the blue bricks, white walls, glazed tiles, small bridges, flowing water, and gaily-painted pleasure boats. The perfect combination of lights with airy pavilions and pagodas gives people the illusion of being in ancient times.

(Photo: Nightscape of the Shui Street of Qinhuai River in Nanjing; Source: stock.tuchong.com)

Or, you can walk up the Nanjing City Wall of the Ming Dynasty. Walking on it, you will witness that this city wall, which has been guarding Nanjing for hundreds of years, is still meandering and spectacular. Assuredly, you can also stand on it and look out at the Jinling nightscape, commanding a fine view of the prosperity of Nanjing, such as nearby laughing pedestrians, distant dim lights, brightly lit tall buildings, heavy and solemn ancient buildings... The noise and tranquility of the city, the history and fashion of the city wall are tacitly integrated at this moment, shocking the soul of every witness.

(Photo: Nanjing City Wall of the Ming Dynasty; Source: stock.tuchong.com)

Moreover, the night light show staged in Terrace Citadel Scenic Spot of Jiefang Gate and Barbican Entrance Scenic Spot of Zhonghua Gate of the city wall will project various magic scenes on the city wall. The magic color of the city wall illuminated by gorgeous lights is quite amazing.

Simply put, if you happen to come to Nanjing in the summer, you might as well choose to take a walk on the ancient bluestone road on both sides of Qinhuai River on a beautiful night, and witness the beauty of Jinling in the experience of lingering prosperity. The romance of Qinhuai River is worth a try.