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Nanjing: Echoes of Empires, Crucible of Modernity

A comprehensive exploration of China's historical capital, situated in the dynamic Yangtze River Delta.

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Nanjing: An Overview

Historical Significance

Nanjing, the capital of Jiangsu province in East China, stands as a testament to China's rich historical and cultural tapestry. Strategically located in the southwestern part of the province within the Yangtze River Delta, it has served as the capital for numerous Chinese dynasties, kingdoms, and republican governments since the 3rd century CE.9 This enduring legacy has cemented its status as a pivotal center for culture, education, research, politics, economy, and transportation.

Administrative Status

As one of China's fifteen sub-provincial cities, Nanjing possesses significant jurisdictional and economic autonomy, approaching that of a full province.89 It has been recognized with accolades such as the 2008 Habitat Scroll of Honor and the National Civilized City award, reflecting its development and urban planning.10 Furthermore, it is classified as a Beta (second-tier global) city by the Globalization and World Cities Research Network and is noted for its strong financial sector.1112

Academic Hub

Nanjing is a prominent center for higher education, hosting 68 institutions of learning as of 2021.1314 Among these are ten universities recognized under Project 211 and ten designated as 'Double First-Class' universities. Nanjing University, in particular, is globally recognized for its scientific research output, ranking among the top universities worldwide in fields like earth sciences, chemistry, and physical sciences.1618

A Journey Through Time

Ancient Roots

Evidence of human habitation dates back to the Paleolithic era with the discovery of "Nanjing Man," indicating the presence of Homo erectus around 600,000 years ago.35 Neolithic settlements flourished in the region by 5000 BC.37 The earliest cities, such as Tangyi (established 571 BC) and Jinlingyi (fortified 495 BC), mark the nascent stages of urban development in the area.39

Capital of Dynasties

Nanjing's prominence as a capital began in AD 220 with its designation as Jianye, the capital of Eastern Wu during the Three Kingdoms period. It subsequently served as the capital for the Eastern Jin and the four Southern Dynasties, becoming a major East Asian hub.43 During the Ming Dynasty (1368–1421), Nanjing was the imperial capital, featuring extensive construction, including its formidable city wall.56

Nanjing has been the capital city for the following dynasties and regimes:

  • Eastern Wu (229–280)
  • Eastern Jin (317–420)
  • Liu Song (420–479)
  • Southern Qi (479–502)
  • Liang (502–557)
  • Chen (557–589)
  • Southern Tang (937–976)
  • Ming Dynasty (1368–1421)
  • Republic of China (1912, 1927–1937, 1946–1949)
  • Taiping Heavenly Kingdom (1853–1864)
  • Reorganized National Government of China (1940–1945)

Turbulent Centuries

The city experienced periods of destruction and revival, notably being razed during the Sui Dynasty and later serving as the capital for the Southern Tang.50 During the Qing Dynasty, it was known as Jiangning but remained a significant administrative and economic center.83 The city was tragically impacted by the Taiping Rebellion, serving as its capital (Tianjing), and later suffered the atrocities of the Nanjing Massacre during the Second Sino-Japanese War (1937-1938), resulting in immense loss of life and destruction.89

Geographical Context

Location and Topography

Nanjing covers a total land area of approximately 6,598 km2 (2,548 sq mi). It is situated in the lower reaches of the Yangtze River, within the economically vital Yangtze River Delta region.d The Yangtze River borders the city to the west and north, while the Ningzheng Ridge surrounds its northern, eastern, and southern peripheries.d

Regional Connections

The city connects to the Grand Canal, linking the Huai River basin to the north and the Zhe River basin to the south.d Nanjing borders several prefecture-level cities in Anhui province to the west and is adjacent to Yangzhou, Zhenjiang, and Changzhou in Jiangsu province to the east and northeast.93 Its strategic location facilitates extensive transportation networks, including a deep-water channel project to accommodate large vessels from the East China Sea.99

Climate Profile

Seasonal Characteristics

Nanjing experiences a humid subtropical climate (Köppen Cfa), influenced by the East Asian monsoon. The city is known for its distinct seasons: hot, muggy summers; cold, damp winters; and moderate spring and autumn periods. It is often referred to as one of China's "Three Furnaces" due to its high summer temperatures.95 The period from mid-June to late July marks the "plum rain" season, characterized by persistent dampness and mild rainfall.95

Climate Data

The average annual temperature is approximately 16.4 °C (61.5 °F). January averages 3.1 °C (37.6 °F), while July averages 28.4 °C (83.1 °F). Extreme temperatures recorded range from -14.0 °C (6.8 °F) to 40.7 °C (105.3 °F).9697 Precipitation averages 1,144 mm (45.0 in) annually, distributed across approximately 113 days.96

Climate data for Nanjing, elevation 35 m (115 ft), (1991–2020 normals, extremes 1951–present)
Month Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Year
Record high °C (°F) 21.0
(69.8)
27.7
(81.9)
33.2
(91.8)
34.2
(93.6)
37.5
(99.5)
38.1
(100.6)
40.0
(104.0)
40.7
(105.3)
39.0
(102.2)
38.1
(100.6)
29.2
(84.6)
23.1
(73.6)
40.7
(105.3)
Mean daily maximum °C (°F) 7.4
(45.3)
10.1
(50.2)
15.1
(59.2)
21.4
(70.5)
26.6
(79.9)
29.2
(84.6)
32.4
(90.3)
31.9
(89.4)
27.9
(82.2)
22.8
(73.0)
16.6
(61.9)
10.0
(50.0)
21.0
(69.7)
Daily mean °C (°F) 3.1
(37.6)
5.6
(42.1)
10.1
(50.2)
16.2
(61.2)
21.5
(70.7)
25.0
(77.0)
28.4
(83.1)
27.9
(82.2)
23.7
(74.7)
18.0
(64.4)
11.5
(52.7)
5.4
(41.7)
16.4
(61.5)
Mean daily minimum °C (°F) 0.0
(32.0)
2.0
(35.6)
6.0
(42.8)
11.6
(52.9)
17.1
(62.8)
21.4
(70.5)
25.1
(77.2)
24.8
(76.6)
20.3
(68.5)
14.2
(57.6)
7.7
(45.9)
1.9
(35.4)
12.7
(54.8)
Record low °C (°F) −14.0
(6.8)
−13.0
(8.6)
−7.1
(19.2)
−0.2
(31.6)
5.0
(41.0)
11.8
(53.2)
16.8
(62.2)
16.9
(62.4)
7.7
(45.9)
0.2
(32.4)
−6.3
(20.7)
−13.1
(8.4)
−14.0
(6.8)
Average precipitation mm (inches) 50.2
(1.98)
53.5
(2.11)
79.7
(3.14)
82.4
(3.24)
83.8
(3.30)
193.4
(7.61)
226.8
(8.93)
158.5
(6.24)
72.9
(2.87)
55.5
(2.19)
52.3
(2.06)
35.0
(1.38)
1,144
(45.05)
Average precipitation days (≥ 0.1 mm) 9.2 8.9 10.9 9.6 9.9 10.6 11.7 12.1 7.8 7.3 7.7 7.2 112.9
Average snowy days 3.7 3.0 1.0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0.4 1.2 9.3
Average relative humidity (%) 73 71 69 68 69 76 78 79 76 73 71 73 73
Mean monthly sunshine hours 121.2 124.5 153.2 180.6 190.4 155.4 195.4 197.6 165.0 168.6 145.4 135.1 1,932.4
Average max. and min. temperatures in °C
Precipitation totals in mm
Source: CMA94

Cultural Heritage

Historical Landmarks

Nanjing boasts numerous significant historical sites, including the Presidential Palace, the Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum, and the Ming Xiaoling Mausoleum, a UNESCO World Heritage site.46 The city is renowned for its scenic mountains and waters, such as Fuzimiao (Confucius Temple) area along the Qinhuai River, Ming Palace ruins, Chaotian Palace, Drum Tower, Stone City, and Xuanwu Lake.46

Cultural Institutions

Key cultural facilities enhance Nanjing's vibrant atmosphere. These include the Nanjing Library, the Nanjing Museum, and the Jiangsu Art Museum, providing residents and visitors access to extensive collections and exhibitions.46 The city's cultural landscape is further enriched by its status as a major center for education and research.

Artistic Legacy

Nanjing's artistic heritage is evident in surviving structures like the spirit ways of Southern Dynasty mausoleums, particularly the ensemble at Xiao Xiu's tomb.4748 The city's history is also captured in famous artworks, such as Gu Hongzhong's 10th-century painting "Night Revels of Han Xizai," which depicts a banquet scene in the Yuhuatai District.49

Economic Powerhouse

GDP and Growth

Nanjing's economy is substantial, with a city GDP of approximately 1.850 trillion RMB (US$260 billion).2 The per capita GDP stands at around 198,046 RMB (US$27,809), reflecting its significant economic output and development.2 The city is recognized as a Beta (second-tier global) city and ranks highly in global financial centers.11

Industrial Base

Historically a center for the textile industry, Nanjing has diversified its economic base. It possesses rich mineral resources, including significant reserves of iron and sulfur.99 The city also benefits from abundant water resources from the Yangtze River and has notable natural hot springs.99

Governance Structure

Administrative Framework

Nanjing operates as a sub-provincial city within China's administrative framework.8 This status grants it considerable jurisdictional and economic autonomy. The city is governed by the Nanjing Municipal People's Congress, with key leadership roles including the Party Secretary, Congress Chairman, and Mayor.editeditediteditedit

Names and Nomenclature

Etymology

The name "Nanjing" (南京), meaning "Southern Capital," originated informally in the 6th century.29 It became formalized during the Ming Dynasty when the capital was established there, contrasting with Beijing ("Northern Capital").31 The city has held numerous names throughout its history, reflecting its changing political status and regional influences.

Historical Designations

Notable historical names include Jinling (金陵), Jianye (建業), Jiankang (建康), Moling (秣陵), and Tianjing (天京) during the Taiping Rebellion.30 The romanization "Nanking" was common in foreign sources for centuries, derived from the city's historical prestige dialect.3334

Nanjing
"Nanjing" in Chinese characters
Chinese南京
PostalNanking
Literal meaning"Southern Capital"
Transcriptions
Standard Mandarin
Hanyu PinyinNánjīng
Bopomofoㄋㄢˊㄐㄧㄥ
Wade–GilesNan2-ching1
Tongyong PinyinNánjīng
IPA[nǎn.t͡ɕiŋ]
Wu
Romanizationnoecin
Yue: Cantonese
Yale RomanizationNàhmgīng
Jyutpingnaam4 ging1
IPA[nam̚˥˩ kɪŋ˥˥]
Southern Min
Hokkien POJLâm-kiaⁿ (col.)
Lâm-king (lit.)
Tâi-lôLâm-kiann (col.)
Lâm-king (lit.)

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References

References

  1.  Liuchao Gudu Bowuguan (六朝古都博物館)
  2.  Jiangning Zhizao Bowuguan (江甯織造博物館)
  3.  Jinling Shufa Silao Jinianguan (金陵書法四老紀念館, 胡小石、林散之、蕭嫻、高二適)
  4.  è•­å­é¡¯ 《奉和昭明太子鐘山講解詩》: "崇嶽基舊宇, 盤嶺跨南京".
  5.  ã€Šå—都繁會圖》.
  6.  Pelissier, Roger. THE AWAKENING OF CHINA: 1793–1949. Edited and Translated by Martin Kieffer. New York: Putnam, 1967. p. 109
  7.  Dennerline 2002, p. 87 (which calls this edict "the most untimely promulgation of [Dorgon's] career."
  8.  Ho Ping-ti. STUDIES ON THE POPULATION OF CHINA, 1368–1953. Cambridge: Harvard University Press, 1959. p. 237
  9.  Levathes, Louise. When China Ruled The Seas: The Treasure Fleet of the Dragon Throne 1405–1433, p. 172. Oxford Univ. Press (New York), 1996.
A full list of references for this article are available at the Nanjing Wikipedia page

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