Nanjing Purple Mountain Private Tour with Tangshan Hot Spring Spa Experience: A Balance of Culture and Relaxation
When exploring Nanjing, a city bursting with history and natural beauty, this private tour offers a thoughtful way to experience both the iconic sights and some well-deserved leisure. Designed for travelers who want flexibility, comfort, and a blend of cultural sights with relaxing hot springs, this tour combines some of the best elements Nanjing has to offer.
What makes this experience particularly appealing? First, it’s entirely private, meaning you can customize your pace and focus on what interests you most. Second, the tour includes not just sightseeing, but also the chance to unwind in Tangshan Hot Spring Spa — a rare treat after walking through scenic, historic sites. And third, the guide’s local knowledge helps bring the stories and history of the sites to life in a way that’s both engaging and informative.
However, one thing to consider is the overall duration — about 7 to 8 hours — so it’s best suited for those comfortable with a full day of activities. If you’re after a flexible, well-rounded experience that mixes culture with relaxation, this tour could be an excellent choice.
Who is this tour best suited for?
Travelers who appreciate personalized experiences, enjoy cultural sites with historical significance, and love ending the day with some leisure time in natural hot springs will find this tour particularly rewarding. It also suits those who want a seamless, guided outing that takes care of all the details.
- Key Points
- Exploring Nanjing’s Cultural Highlights
- Dr. Sun Yat-sen’s Mausoleum
- Xiaoling Tomb — Optional but Worth the Visit
- The Scenic Beauty of Purple Mountain
- The Highlight: Tangshan Hot Spring Spa
- Spa Experience Tips
- Food, Flexibility, and All-Inclusive Options
- Practical Details and Tips
- Why Choose This Tour?
- Who Should Book This Tour?
- FAQ
- More City Tours in Nanjing
- More Tours in Nanjing
- More Tour Reviews in Nanjing
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Key Points

- Private, flexible experience allowing you to choose your pace.
- Includes transportation and a knowledgeable guide to enrich your understanding of Nanjing’s history.
- Visit key sites like Dr. Sun Yat-sen’s Mausoleum and Xiaoling Tomb for cultural insights.
- Relax in Tangshan Hot Spring Spa with natural thermal waters and optional swimwear.
- All tickets included (hot springs, Xiaoling Tomb if opted for), with options for lunch.
- Ideal for those seeking a balanced day of sightseeing and relaxation in a private setting.
Exploring Nanjing’s Cultural Highlights

Our journey begins with a comfortable pickup from your hotel, railway station, or designated meeting point in Nanjing. The private driver and guide ensure a smooth ride up to Purple Mountain, officially known as Zijin Shan. It’s a scenic drive that sets the tone for the day — expect lush views especially if you visit during different seasons, as the gardens and natural surroundings change beautifully.
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Dr. Sun Yat-sen’s Mausoleum
The first stop, Dr. Sun Yat-sen’s Mausoleum, is a must-see for history buffs. It’s a site that’s both impressive and contemplative, with a gentle walk through the surrounding park. The guide will share stories about Sun Yat-sen’s role in modern Chinese history, making the visit more meaningful. The ticket here is free, which adds to the value.
According to one reviewer, the guide’s friendly manner made the visit enjoyable, and the ride to the site was comfortable. It’s a perfect introduction to Nanjing’s modern history, set against a backdrop of peaceful natural scenery.
Xiaoling Tomb — Optional but Worth the Visit
Next, visitors can choose to visit Xiaoling Tomb of the Ming Dynasty for an additional fee. This site, with its serene pathways guarded by mythical animals, offers a quiet walk through history. If you’re a fan of Ming Dynasty architecture or want a peaceful moment amid the gardens, this is a worthy addition.
One reviewer highlighted the “serenity of Ming tomb garden and monuments,” noting that walking there in different seasons offers various scenic sights that add layers of appreciation to the experience.
The Scenic Beauty of Purple Mountain

The main attraction here is Purple Mountain itself. The guide will escort you along peaceful paths, pointing out the different garden vistas that change with the seasons. You might encounter blooming flowers in spring, lush greenery in summer, or stunning leaf colors in autumn — all of which make for excellent photo opportunities.
Many guests appreciate the combination of natural beauty and the historical significance of sites like the mausoleum and tomb. The walk is leisurely, and the guide’s insights help turn a simple stroll into a memorable cultural experience.
The Highlight: Tangshan Hot Spring Spa

After a morning of sightseeing, it’s time for some well-earned relaxation at Tangshan Hot Spring. This hot spring is renowned among China’s top thermal centers, offering natural hot spring waters famed for their rejuvenating properties.
The spa experience spans about four hours, giving ample time to soak, unwind, and enjoy the natural mineral waters. Guests are advised to bring bathing suits, as swimming and soaking are the main activities here. The hot spring ticket is included, which simplifies the experience — no need to worry about additional costs or tickets.
One reviewer mentioned the difficulty in finding less crowded hot springs during busy weekends but appreciated that their guide’s local knowledge helped them locate a quieter spot, making the experience more relaxing.
Spa Experience Tips
Expect a tranquil environment with beautifully maintained pools. Many guests enjoy trying different temperatures and water types, while others simply prefer floating leisurely. The spa’s natural setting is complemented by the comfort of the private transportation, which takes you back to your hotel or preferred drop-off point.
Food, Flexibility, and All-Inclusive Options

You can opt for an all-inclusive package that includes a local, tasty lunch. This is a great way to try authentic Nanjing dishes, often described as flavorful and satisfying. If you prefer to explore local eateries on your own, you can skip this part.
The tour is flexible — you can spend more or less time at each site, tailoring the day to your interests. This personal approach is especially appreciated by travelers who don’t want to feel rushed or confined to a strict schedule.
Practical Details and Tips

- The tour operates rain or shine, so dress appropriately — comfortable shoes and weather-conscious clothing are recommended.
- Confirmations are quick, and booking 80 days in advance is typical, which indicates high demand for this experience.
- The tour is suitable for travelers with moderate physical fitness, as some walking is involved.
- Children are welcome, provided they are accompanied by an adult.
- For the hot springs, remember to bring your swimming suit and possibly a towel if you prefer.
Why Choose This Tour?

This private Nanjing tour offers a thoughtful mix of cultural exploration and relaxation, perfect for travelers who value comfort and flexibility. It’s a chance to learn about key historical sites without feeling rushed, plus the opportunity to unwind in natural hot springs — something not always included in city tours.
The guide’s knowledge and the well-organized itinerary ensure a seamless day, while the inclusion of all tickets and transportation means fewer surprises along the way. Plus, with the option of including lunch, you get a full, hassle-free experience.
Who Should Book This Tour?

- History enthusiasts eager to explore Nanjing’s cultural landmarks with expert insights.
- Relaxation seekers who want to combine sightseeing with a soothing hot spring experience.
- Travelers with limited time who prefer a curated, all-in-one day out.
- Groups or couples looking for a private, customizable experience that caters to their pace and interests.
FAQ

Is pickup and drop-off included? Yes, the guide and driver will pick you up at your hotel or designated location in Nanjing and drop you off afterward.
How long does the tour last? Approximately 7 to 8 hours, covering sightseeing and spa relaxation.
Can I visit Xiaoling Tomb? Yes, it’s available at an additional fee, and your guide can arrange this for you if interested.
What should I bring to the hot springs? Bring your bathing suit and possibly a towel; swimming wear is necessary for the pools.
Is lunch included? It depends on the package you choose. The all-inclusive option includes a local lunch, while other options do not.
Are tickets for the hot springs included? Yes, your hot spring entrance is included in the tour price.
Can I customize the time spent at each site? Yes, the tour is private and flexible, allowing you to decide how long to spend at each location.
What is the physical activity level? Moderate — expect some walking, mostly on flat paths, with opportunities to rest.
Is this tour suitable in all weather conditions? Yes, it operates in any weather, so dress accordingly.
Is it suitable for children? Yes, children can participate when accompanied by an adult.
To sum it up, this Nanjing private tour strikes a wonderful balance between cultural education and relaxation. It’s perfect for those who want a guided experience that feels personal, stress-free, and offers authentic moments — from strolling on peaceful paths to soaking in natural hot springs. Whether you’re interested in history, natural beauty, or simply a day of pampering, this tour has something to offer.
If you’re after a well-rounded day that combines sightseeing with leisure, it’s an experience worth considering — especially if you appreciate the comfort of private guides and all-inclusive planning.
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