Nanjing was the capital of China for centuries and it thus occupies a special place in the annals of Chinese history.  Nanjing is the tale of two cities, the old city surrounded by an enormous wall –  and the vibrant and growing new city which is challenging Beijing, Shanghai and Hong Kong for status as a “top tier” Chinese cultural and commercial center.   Inside the wall, however, visitors will find many beautiful and peaceful places like the one above where the aura of ancient Chinese culture is still palpable.