Renaissance Nanjing Olympic Center Hotel

The father of modern China, Dr. Sun Yat Sen played an integral role in the revolution that overthrew the Qing Dynasty. A charismatic personality, he was honored by a state monument after his passing. Climb the tiered steps bordered by fragrant cypress, pine, and gingko trees to reach the vault. Pass beneath the tri-arched gate carved from marble, and you'll see the pavilion with its 9-meter Kuomintang memorial and the hall flanked by decorative huabiao columns followed by the vault further up the steps. Step into the hall with its ceiling painted with the Flag of the Republic of China, statue of Sun Yat Sen, and the Three Principles of the People inscribed above the doorway. The hemispherical tomb is situated to the north of the hall, with an Italian marble statue lying atop the sarcophagus that holds the remains of one of the nation's great leaders.

Simple and dynamic, this series of food stalls under one roof positively buzzes with energy. Stone walls and tables under beamed wooden ceilings hung with paper lanterns infuse the space with rustic flair. On the menu is a variety of traditional Nanjing specialties, expertly prepared with time-honored techniques by an all-female culinary team. These include the shredded tofu in chicken broth, tangbao or steamed broth-filled dumplings, and pidu or pork skin noodles. The central stage hosts folk music every evening, making this a great place to soak in the cuisine and culture of this spirited city.

This space today little resembles its origins as a bunker and parking lot, except for its sunken entrance. The vast store seems more like a reading library than a bookshop, with communal tables, comfortable chairs, and aisles filled with books of every genre, though humanities and social sciences are the specialty. Students from the neighboring Nanjing University, book lovers, and tourists flock here for an afternoon of leisurely reading, research, or simply to explore this one-of-a-kind shop. A cultural landmark, this shop stands out for its indie vibe and unique decor highlighted by a checkout counter crafted from over a thousand old books, a replica of Rodin's "The Thinker," and a simple black cross mounted on a wall, a reflection of the owner's personal faith. You'll also find local art and exhibits here, as well as a cheery coffee shop. More than a bookstore, at Librairie Avant-Garde, reading is a religion, and a must-visit for every book savant.

While not as big as other bars, M Show Bar is a great place to have a few drinks with some friends.