Qin Huai River, southwest of the city and extending 110 kilometers long, is a branch of Yangtze River. It was called Huai River originally. Legend says in the Qin dynasty(221-207B.C.) under the reign of Emperor Qin Shi Huang, Mount Fangshan was chiseled through to lead the water into the city, so that it was renamed into Qin Huai River.

Since ancient times, the river has fostered numerous beautiful sights and sounds, poems and stories in southern China. It was well known for its picturesque scenery in ancient times with houses and halls on both sides of the river, green windows and red doors reflected in the moonlit rippled water. 

The Qinhuai River runs through Nanjing and divided the city into the Inner River and the Outer River. The inner river of the river used to be the most flourishing place of Nanjing since it was the red-light district famous throughout the nation. Painted boats shuttled to and fro and music sounded all night. On a street beside the river, visitors may see a famous lady's former residence to feel the history. Painted boats on the river were extraordinarily famous. Large or small, all were decorated with colorful lanterns. Sitting on a stool in a boat, flowing with water and recollecting history is a fascinating experience. 

In ancient times, the river is lined with tea houses, restaurants, brothels and stores; crowded with boats, bright lanterns in the evenings, music and laughter. Now it has become the most unique cultural area with distinctive local characteristics combining commerce, tourism and folklore. Major sights are the Confucius Temple, Tribute Courtyard, East and West Markets, and Folklore Museum.