As it faces the mounting pressure of the United States, China seems to be on the brink of reevaluating its currency. Experts believe that the Chinese Yuan is undervalued by as much as 40%. The exchange rate is currently 8.02 CNY = 1 USD. Therefore, with goods and services so cheap, there is no better time to experience the cultural wonders of China. Though you may be tempted to rush to the bustling and more well-known cities such as Shanghai or China’s capital, Beijing, take a moment to consider another fascinating Chinese city, Nanjing.

Located in eastern China by the Yangtze River, Nanjing is regarded as one of the most historic cities in the country. The former capital is home to a variety of cultural activities and boasts an exciting night life, sure to keep the adventurous traveler busy. Top attractions include Dr. Sun Yat-sen’s Mausoleum, Ming Xiaoling Mausoleum, Nanjing Massacre Memorial Hall, and Fuzi Miao.

For just CNY 45, or about $6, you can pay your respects to Sun Yat-sen, the Chinese revolutionary and political leader who was credited for overthrowing the Qing Dynasty. Just a short bus ride from the heart of the city, Sun Yat-sen’s mausoleum is situated at the foot of the second peak of Mount Zijin. To see his actual white marble tomb, you must hike 392 steps.

Another famous mausoleum to visit is Ming Xiaoling, or the Ming Tombs. It was built for the Hongwu Emperor of the Ming Dynasty in 1381 and was completed in 1405. It lies at the northern foot of the Purple Mountain. The calm surroundings allow visitors to reflect and honor China’s rich past. Admission is CNY 60, or about $7.50.

In more recent history, Nanjing is perhaps best known as the Chinese city that suffered over 300,000 deaths at the hands of Japanese soldiers in 1937. To pay tribute to the victims, a memorial hall was built at an original execution site. Exhibits include sculptures, relief carvings, documents, and remaining bones. Entrance is free.

On a lighter note, if you are looking to shop or eat great food such as smelly tofu and exotic meats, look no further than Fuzi Miao. With great surrounding restaurants and fun souvenir shops, any tourist is bound to have a good time. Fuzi Miao hosts a Confucius Temple and school where you can experience what it was like to study and take an exam in the Confucian era.

As for night life, Nanjing has many bars and Westernized nightclubs such as Scarlet. Drinks may be a little pricey for the relatively inexpensive city, but the crowd knows how to have a good time.
The best way to get around the city is taxis. Rides range from CNY 8 to CNY 20, or about $3. Buses are usually packed and destinations on the metro line are limited.

On average a three star hotel will cost about $70 a night. But hostels tend to be much cheaper.
As a summer traveler, it is imperative that you wear sunscreen as temperatures can reach as high as 100°F. The city is overall safe as there are few reported violent crimes and the locals are generally friendly. And it would also be a good idea to brush up on your Mandarin as few people speak other foreign languages. But all you really need to get by is a handy map and good sign language skills.