The cradle of the modern Chinese revolution and all that followed, Jiangxi is a land which has shaped history. Augmenting its more contemporary importance, Jiangxi is also the birthplace of Taoism. This is a region blessed with a rich agricultural and trading history (which continues to this day): colourful harvest illuminate the fertile pastures and ceramic artistry flourishes here. So trek off the beaten path and discover one of China’s more unexplored sides.
Nanchang
The provincial capital of Jiangxi, Nanchang is more of a low-key capital. An important location in China’s modern history, contemporary Nanchang and her many lakes and rivers still shelters some hidden gems. Tengwang Pavilion is the landmark of the city. Anyi Village, once a bustling hub of mercantile business, is a well-preserved collection of ancient buildings and streets. Nearby Meiling Lion Peak is a popular nature escape for city residents.
Shangrao
This land of “fish and rice” is an agricultural stronghold. Wuyuan Huangling may seem like a typical mountain village, but the famed crop drying techniques used here (a bamboo sieve drying technique) and the magnificently colourful harvests attract photographers from all over China. Pay a visit during spring to witness vibrant yellow rape flowers illuminating the valleys below.
For spectacular natural scenery, Sanqingshan Scenic Area is a hikers heaven, whilst Wuyuan Scenic Area with its fields of golden canola and ancient villages is a photographers dream.
Ji’an
Located in the centre of the province, Ji’an is known as the cradle of modern China’s revolution: Mao Zedong established China’s first rural revolutionary base at Jinggang Mountain. Jinggang Mountain, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is doted with dozens of well-preserved revolutionary buildings. Furthermore, the area is endowed with mountain peaks, boulders, karst caves and hot springs.
Yingtan
Situated in the northerly reaches of the province, Yingtan is the birthplace of Taoism. Mount Longhu Scenic Area is where it all started for Taoism: this is where the Taoist founder Zhang Daoling practiced and attained “The Way”. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Mount Longhu is worthy of any modern day pilgrimage. On a slightly different note (but most definitely worth a mention), the cliff-side-hanging coffins of the ancient Yue people found on Mount Longhu are mind-blowing.
Pingxiang
Situated in the west of Jiangxi province, Pingxiang has a long history that dates back over 1,700 years. Modern history buffs will be occupied for days (the area was an important physical and ideological battleground for modern China), but our pick of the area is the Pingxiang Wugong Mountain Scenic Area. The high mountain meadows and hiking paths on offer here are just too good to pass by. Sunrise on the mountains peak is a fantastic time to whip the camera out.
Jiujiang
The northern gateway of the province, Jiujiang is an area rich in history and nature. The Mount Lu Scenic Area is a UNESCO World Heritage Site doted with historical relics from Buddhism, Taoism, Islam and Confucianism (marking it as a truly cultural marvel). The scenic area is a fascinating blend of natural springs, dramatic rock formations, shrines and stone inscriptions. Be sure to visit the Sandie Waterfall within the Mount Lu Scenic Area.
Zhelin Lake Scenic Area is also a great site. From above the towering viewing platform gaze across the hundreds of islands scattered across the lake.
Jingdezhen
Jingdezhen is a world-famous porcelain city: the city has been producing porcelain wares for over 2,000 years. Jingdezhen houses some of the world’s most impressive collections of Chinese ceramic art and artefacts, with truly masterful designs of beauty and shape housed throughout the many porcelain shops and museums within the city. The Ancient Kiln Folk Customs Museum is a fantastic exhibition of ceramics, and the workshops here give visitors the chance to create their own ceramic art. For a more in-depth exploration, stop by the Ceramic History Museum, Porcelain Street and China Porcelain Garden.
The Yaoli Tourist Destination is a collection of old Huizhou style buildings and is a great place to appreciate village ceramic life.
