Nanjing Toread Youth Hostel

The (new) owner of this hostel made my stay so enjoyable despite the language barrier between us. He is personable and kind and did everything he could to ensure I was comfortable and happy during my stay. When we needed to communicate but were lost for commonly understood words, out came the translation app! The hostel is located on the 21st floor smack dab in the middle of the city center and the views are absolutely amazing. Don't worry, though, there are two lifts to get you to the floor. The nice thing is all the dorms (and the bathrooms) have wide windows and incredible vistas so you can take in a lovely sunrise/sunset or just watch the hustle and bustle down below you. There are four or five different dorm rooms (no private rooms) with a variety of bunk bed configurations, all with plenty of outlets by each bed (that's such a nice touch!) and a big couch in the front room. There is 24/7 drinkable hot water and the showers were also toasty warm. The owner kept the hostel constantly clean, despite the large groups coming and going during my stay. Of course there was WIFI, which was temperamental, but when it was working it was quick enough. With only two bathrooms (and one is attached to one of the dorm rooms) and over 30 beds, when the hostel gets to max capacity, it could be a challenge to use the facilities when needed. I get the feeling not too many westerners stay there so one really gets chance to mix and mingle with the local Chinese travelers, making for wonderful cultural exchange. I highly recommend this hostel to anyone heading to Nanjing.