Life in Nanjing: A Foreigner's Perspective

Nanjing is a fascinating city in eastern China with a rich history and culture. As both a long-time resident and recent expatriate can attest, it offers foreigners an affordable place to live with certain advantages and disadvantages compared to other major Chinese cities.

Adjusting to the Climate

One of the biggest adjustments for foreigners in Nanjing is dealing with the drastic temperature changes between summer and winter. Humid subtropical climate can make the heat overwhelming, with summer highs often exceeding 100°F. Evenings provide little relief without air conditioning. Lasting several days without working AC like during a power outage is a real struggle. Winters also see temperatures plummet well below freezing, though lack of central heating in homes means indoor and outdoor temperatures are nearly identical. Adaptive layers of warm clothing are essential during the colder months.

Appreciating the History

No visit to Nanjing is complete without exploring its historical significance. Once serving as the capital city for several imperial dynasties, architectural marvels like the Ming Xiaoling Mausoleum provide a glimpse into the region’s glorious past. The Nanjing Massacre Memorial Hall also somberly commemorates the atrocities of World War II to educate future generations. Strolling along the protective city walls offers scenic views and insight into Nanjing’s strategic importance through the ages. Its cultural treasures continue attracting domestic and international tourists alike.

Navigating Daily Life

Living in Nanjing provides relative affordability and convenience compared to other large Chinese metropolises. Housing, groceries, and transportation costs are low for residents. The metro, bus, and taxi systems form an integrated public transportation network for efficient mobility around the expanding city. While a smaller international community means fewer options for English-speaking social activities, local friendliness and curiosity about outside cultures create opportunities to immerse fully in Nanjing life. Learning basic Chinese phrases goes a long way in navigating daily errands from shopping to dining out.

Enjoying Local Cuisine

Nanjing boasts a distinctive culinary heritage with influences from surrounding regions. Dishes like braised bean curd served with rice remains a comfort food staple, while Nanjing salted duck satisfies both health-conscious palates and those with a taste for indulgence. Night markets burst with snacks perfect for sampling regional specialties, from sweet Tang yuan dumplings to savory scallion pancakes. Experimental younger restaurants also offer innovative East-meets-West fusion taking traditional recipes to new heights. Locals proudly share their tables, inviting foreigners deeper into the fabric of Nanjing lives over shared meals.

Appreciating Urban Green Spaces

Despite rapid development, Nanjing manages to maintain a high percentage of green spaces within city limits. Sprawling public parks like Zhongshan Park offer pedestrian-friendly trails, playgrounds, and scenic vistas for residents seeking respite from urban bustle. Less visited but equally inspiring are temple gardens like those at Linggu Temple , transporting visitors to an oasis of serenity. Even navigating between skyscrapers, London plane trees line avenues in loving memory of Nanjing’s past, planted by General Chiang Kai-shek for his wife Song Meiling. Their legacy nourishes the present with cool shade and vibrant fall foliage.

Making Memorable Day Trips

Nanjing’s convenient transportation also opens opportunities for vibrant day trips. Just an hour away, the historic water towns of Zijin and Xiagui come alive with narrow alleys, ancient architecture, and charming canal views. Further afield, relaxing hot springs beckon at Yangzhou alongside its famous Slender West Lake. Nature reserves like Gaochun National Forest Park offer hiking trails, camping, and glimpses of native plants and wildlife. Returning to the bustling Nanjing by evening, memories of countryside exploration enhance gratitude for the comforts of cosmpolitan living in this enchanting city.

Embracing Challenges of Integration

While cultural adjustments can prove demanding, embracing challenges enriches the expatriate experience. Learning Mandarin Chinese, however imperfectly, vastly improves daily experiences and forges new friendships. With openness and respect toward traditions, foreigners may be surprised how welcoming locals can be in sharing their tables, festivals, and daily lives. Patience and persistence typically yield rewards whether navigating bureaucratic systems or simply adjusting to the pace of local schedules. Overall, warm hospitality and charm of Nanjing’s people create a safe environment to firmly put down roots, however temporarily, in this historic yet forward-thinking Chinese city. In closing, Nanjing offers foreigners a vibrant mix of history, natural beauty, and modern amenities. With an open and adaptive mindset, even the steepest learning curves around language and climate prove surmountable. Rich cultural experiences and low cost of living enhance quality of life. For those seeking an authentic Chinese living and traveling experience outside of largest international hubs, Nanjing stands out as an excellent long or short-term home.