What to Buy in Nanjing (南京)
The old capital of six dynasties is known for Yunjin brocade — the 'cloud brocade' once reserved for emperors.
6 must-buy souvenirs
Yunjin brocade 云锦
The 'cloud brocade' woven with gold thread — a UNESCO-listed craft once made only for the imperial court.
📍 Nanjing Yunjin Museum
Yuhua stones 雨花石
Colorful banded pebbles found in the Yuhuatai area — natural art in your pocket.
📍 Yuhuatai stone markets
Saltwater duck 盐水鸭
Nanjing's iconic brined duck — delicate, fragrant and sold vacuum-packed.
📍 Laozihao food shops
Jinling folding fans 金陵折扇
Folding fans made in the old Jinling tradition — elegant and traditional.
📍 Confucius Temple area
Osmanthus duck & snacks 桂花鸭
Osmanthus-scented duck and packed Nanjing snacks from the Confucius Temple food street.
📍 Confucius Temple (Fuzimiao)
Nanjing Yunjin scarves 云锦围巾
Modern scarves woven with traditional cloud-brocade patterns — wearable heritage.
📍 Yunjin Museum shop
Shopping Tips
- ·The Nanjing Yunjin Museum is the only place for authentic cloud brocade.
- ·Saltwater duck (yanshuiya) is the edible classic — vacuum packs fly well.
- ·Yuhua stones make cheap, pretty and light gifts.