NANJING · FAMILY TRAVEL
Nanjing with kids
Nanjing has a range of family attractions including interactive science museums, the city wall cycling circuit, and child-friendly river landscapes. Its historical sites are genuinely impressive but some (particularly the Massacre Memorial) require careful preparation for younger visitors.
Nanjing City Wall Cycling
Ages 6–16Bike hire on the Ming city wall allows children (with adult supervision) to cycle along sections of the 600-year-old fortification; the South Gate section has the best views.
Getting there: Metro Line 1, Zhonghua Gate station
Nanjing Museum (Jiangsu Museum)
Ages 6–16One of China's largest provincial museums with interactive digital galleries and a recreation of a 1930s Nanjing street scene that children find engaging.
Getting there: Metro Line 2, Minjian Palace station
Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum (Zhongshan Ling)
Ages 5–16The climb of 392 steps to the mausoleum is a manageable physical challenge; the forested Purple Mountain setting is good for picnics.
Getting there: Metro Line 2, Minjian Palace then scenic area bus
Nanjing Zoo
Ages 2–12A well-maintained zoo with giant pandas, giraffes, and a children's section with domestic animals; popular with local families.
Getting there: Metro Line 1, Wangjiadawan station
Happy Valley Nanjing
Ages 4–16Large theme park with water section (open summer), rollercoasters, and a dedicated small-children zone; rides sized by height.
Getting there: Metro Line 3, then shuttle bus
Confucius Temple (Fuzimiao) area
Ages 4–14The surrounding Qinhuai River scenic area has boat rides, lantern displays, and street snack vendors; evening illuminations are popular with children.
Getting there: Metro Line 1, Sanshan Street station
Purple Mountain Scenic Area (metro: Minjian Palace) is a large forested hill with cycling paths and open meadows — very good for picnics and outdoor activity. Xuanwu Lake Park in the city centre has paddle boats, a small zoo, and open lawns popular with local families on weekends. Nanjing Olympic Sports Center Park has running tracks and outdoor exercise areas open to the public.
The Laomendong historic block has several family-friendly restaurants with picture menus and outdoor seating. Shopping malls in Xinjiekou (metro: Xinjiekou) have comprehensive food courts with diverse options. International-style burger and pizza restaurants are available in the Hexi new district near the Nanjing Olympics centre. The Nanjing No.1 Restaurant chain serves local food at accessible prices with child seating.