Tale of two cities

The lake in the middle of the city's urban center has a rich history. [Photos by gao erqiang/shanghai star]

During the Song Dynasty (960–1279), the lake was made a "forbidden land" for naval exercises.

The best starting point for a jog is Xuanwu Gate. Hardcore joggers can turn left at the gate and go for a 15 km mini-marathon around the lake.

Make sure you climb up the 20-meter-tall city wall. With bricks infused with the 500 year history of Nanjing at your feet, a modern neon-light dotted city landscape to your left and the serene view of the lake to your right, your mind will be too busy taking in the past and present, modern and primitive to feel any pain in your legs.

Different from the ancient city walls in Beijing and Xi'an, which accentuate equilibrium and symmetry, Zhu Yuanzhang (1328-1398), the first emperor of the Ming Dynasty, adopted a winding, free style for the city wall in Nanjing based on the city’s complicated topography.

You can walk right up to the gate. Stretch out and warm up along the 500-meter lane into the lake and take a left turn upon reaching the Ying Islet for an 8-km run.

Quitters may turn right at the junction and opt for a leisurely 3-km walk, with the option to chill out on the lake-side benches or jump into a pedal boat at the pier and cruise on the lake.

The 8-km route covers the three islands that cut right through the middle of the lake.