A buddha at the Linyin Temple. [Photo provided to China Daily]

Nearby are scenic spots around Zhongshan Mountain, also called Purple Mountain. One of the attractions is the Ming Xiaoling Mausoleum, the tomb of Zhu Yuanzhang, the founder of the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644) and his wife. It took more than 30 years to build.

It represents not only the heyday of the traditional architecture of the early Ming Dynasty and stone-carving techniques, but also became a model for royal tombs all over the country. It focuses on the symmetry of beauty, with ancient pavilions, memorial archways and tablets.

Another attraction here is the Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum, which combines both traditional Chinese and modern architecture styles.

The last stop on this day excursion was the Confucian Temple downtown to admire the great philosopher. In the evening, I boarded a cruise ship on the Qinhuai River to enjoy not only the city lights but also performers in traditional costumes singing and dancing on the banks.