For the first time since 2019, the Nanjing Municipal Bureau of Culture and Tourism welcomed a group of U.S.-based travel professionals to experience the destination and provide insights on attracting North American audiences. The visit, which took place from July 4-6, showcased Nanjing's rich cultural heritage and vibrant attractions, highlighting its potential appeal to North American travelers.
Recognized as one of China's four great ancient capitals, Nanjing is home to significant historical sites and a center of education and culture. The itinerary included visits to UNESCO World Heritage sites like the Xiaoling Tomb of the Ming Dynasty and Dr. Sun Yat-sen's Mausoleum, among others. Participants engaged in immersive activities such as a calligraphy lesson and tea ceremony at the city's oldest tea house, and learned about traditional Yunjin Brocade craftsmanship at the Nanjing Brocade Museum.
The group also explored Nanjing's culinary heritage, sampling local delicacies like Nanjing salted duck and plum blossom cakes. "The history and culture were at the forefront, and each of the culinary experiences was fantastic," said Debra Brown, CEO of Smartbird World Travel. She emphasized the importance of having a knowledgeable tour guide to fully appreciate Nanjing's offerings.
Summer Li, Director of Foreign Exchange and Cooperation Division for the Nanjing Municipal Bureau of Culture and Tourism, expressed enthusiasm for hosting the group and showcasing Nanjing's attractions. She encouraged North American travelers to consider Nanjing for their bucket list trips to China.
About Nanjing
Nanjing, the capital of Jiangsu Province, is situated in the Yangtze River Delta, 190 miles northwest of Shanghai. As one of China's four great ancient capitals, Nanjing has served as the capital city for over 1,800 years. It is home to significant historical attractions such as the Xiaoling Tomb of the Ming Dynasty, Dr. Sun Yat-sen's Mausoleum, and The Presidential Palace. Nanjing is easily accessible via Shanghai Pudong International Airport and connected to major Chinese cities by three train stations.