2025Nanjing Dolphin Watching|trip.com

Nanjing is the only city in the world where wild finless porpoises have a stable habitat in the Yangtze River section of the main urban area. The Yangtze finless porpoise, known as the "smiling elf", is a national first-class protected animal. Its population has increased from about 50 in 2017 to 65 in 2024, with remarkable protection results. The best viewing period is from September to March of the following year, when the finless porpoises are active, especially in the early morning from 6:00 to 9:00 and in the evening from 16:30 to 17:00. It is recommended to go to the Yangtze River Smile Station, Yuzui Wetland Park, Zhongshan Wharf and other observation points on the Gulou Riverside. You can take a boat or wait on the shore and use a telescope to capture the agile moments of the porpoises breathing and jumping into the water.