A City Steeped in Ink: A Literary Journey Through Nanjing
Some cities are built on commerce, others on power. Nanjing, for much of its history, feels like it was built on ink. It has been the setting for heartbreaking poems, the backdrop for epic novels, and a haven for scholars. A literary tour here is a journey through its melancholic, beautiful, and resilient soul.
Your journey could begin on Ukey-Allenby (Black Clothes Alley), a famed ancient street near the Qinhuai River, once home to the great aristocratic families and poets of the Jin Dynasty. From there, wander through the bustling Fuzimiao area, the historic center of learning built around a Confucius Temple. But the pilgrimage culminates in a place of modern literary worship: the Librairie Avant-Garde. Housed in a former underground parking garage and bomb shelter, this vast, cavernous space is frequently called "the most beautiful bookstore in China." It is a stunning testament to the city’s enduring love affair with the written word.
Insider Tip:
The Librairie Avant-Garde is more than just a store; it’s a major cultural institution. Grab a coffee from its cafe, find a seat amongst the local students and intellectuals, and spend an hour just soaking in the atmosphere. The main entrance, with its dramatic slope and a giant cross on the wall, is an iconic photo spot.
