Nanjing – A Vital Hub in Eastern China

Located in the lower reaches of the Yangtze River near Shanghai, Nanjing thrives on the golden waterway of China’s longest river, flowing through its heart.

Nanjing, the capital of Jiangsu Province, is not only a city rich in history and culture but also a modern transportation powerhouse. Leveraging its strategic geographic location and ever-expanding transport network, Nanjing has risen as a key transportation hub for the Yangtze River Delta and the nation. From railways and highways to aviation and port logistics, Nanjing's connectivity has reached unparalleled heights.

A National Railway Nexus

Nanjing occupies a pivotal position in China’s railway network, serving as a core hub in eastern China. It acts as a crucial link connecting central, eastern and northern China, making it an indispensable node in the national rail system. Nanjing South Railway Station, one of Asia’s largest passenger stations, provides seamless high-speed train services connecting cities nationwide.

The city’s high-speed rail network radiates in a ‘star-shaped’ pattern, anchoring key routes such as the Beijing-Shanghai High-Speed Railway and the Yangtze River High-Speed Corridor. Within an hour, Nanjing connects with neighboring cities like Shanghai, Hangzhou, and Hefei. In just 3–5 hours, it links to major cities like Beijing, Tianjin and Jinan. This network has drastically shortened travel times and solidified Nanjing's role as a transportation hub.

Nanjing's railway infrastructure continues to expand. The upcoming Nanjing North Station will further elevate the city’s status. This station will integrate seamlessly with various transportation modes, including the new Liuhe Airport, creating a dynamic, multi-modal transportation hub that enhances interconnectivity with cities across China.

An Expanding Aviation Hub

Nanjing Lukou International Airport is the primary aviation gateway for Jiangsu Province and an essential air transport hub in eastern China. As one of China’s top ten airports, Lukou offers over 140 routes connecting 70 domestic cities and numerous international destinations, including Europe, Australia and the Americas. It also plays a critical role in international cargo transport, ranking as China’s fifth-largest international airfreight hub and fostering economic and cultural exchanges globally.

The ongoing third-phase expansion of Lukou Airport is set to boost its passenger capacity and operational efficiency, positioning Nanjing as a world-class aviation hub and strengthening its role in global air transportation networks.

A Waterborne Powerhouse

Nanjing’s transportation strength extends to its waterways. Situated along the lower Yangtze River, Nanjing boasts over 300 kilometres of golden riverbank, making it a key inland port city in China. Nanjing Port is among the largest inland ports in the country, with Longtan Port, Asia’s largest inland container terminal, capable of accommodating 100,000-ton vessels.

Through the Yangtze River’s golden waterway, Nanjing maintains close ties with other inland cities and connects directly to overseas markets, cementing its status as a vital port hub for the Yangtze River Delta and beyond.

A Thriving Road Network

Nanjing’s highway infrastructure is among the densest in China, with 16 expressways radiating from the city and connecting it to major regions across the nation, from northern and eastern China to the central and western provinces. Within the city, a comprehensive metro, bus, and taxi network ensures efficient urban mobility for residents and visitors alike.

Toward a Global Transportation Hub

Nanjing is fast-tracking the construction of large-scale transportation projects, including the third-phase expansion of Lukou Airport, the Nanjing North Station, and the North Yangtze High-Speed Railway. These initiatives will further enhance Nanjing’s prominence in global transportation, boosting economic exchange, cultural interaction and tourism.

With its unparalleled advantages in rail, air, water and road transportation, Nanjing has established itself as a key transportation hub in China and on the global stage. As infrastructure continues to improve, Nanjing’s influence will expand, solidifying its position as a gateway connecting China to the world and driving the next chapter of regional and international connectivity.