Escape the hustle and bustle and enjoy the gifts of nature
🚩Yiyang, Shangrao, Jiangxi: An Underrated Tourist Destination
Yiyang is a place in Shangrao, Jiangxi, that is not well-known but has stunning scenery and a rich cultural heritage. It is home to the Guifeng World Geopark, the world's largest reclining Buddha, the Yiyang Opera, and Nanyan Temple, among other attractions. It is no less impressive than other popular tourist cities.
🚌Transportation and Location
Yiyang is conveniently located and easily accessible. If you take the train, it is only a 5-minute drive from Yiyang Station to the county town, about 15 minutes to Guifeng, and about 10 minutes to the Reclining Buddha.
🚩Itinerary Recommendations
Day 1: Cultural Tour of Yiyang County
First, visit the Fang Zhimin Memorial Hall. This place carries a heavy history. Walking into the memorial hall is like going back to a Chinese class, where the heroic deeds and noble spirit of Fang Zhimin are vividly displayed. Through pictures, objects, and detailed text, you can learn about the life of this great revolutionary, feel his dedication to his ideals and beliefs, and receive a profound patriotic education and spiritual baptism.
Next, visit Dieshan Academy. This is an ancient academy with a Jiangnan flavor, with ancient buildings such as Wangjiang Tower and Dieshan Tower. Stepping into the academy, the tranquil atmosphere instantly takes you away from the hustle and bustle, as if time has turned back. Stroll through the academy, admire the exquisite architecture, feel the traces of time, and savor the tranquility and elegance of the Jiangnan garden.
In the afternoon, visit the awe-inspiring Reclining Buddha Scenic Area. This Reclining Buddha is not only a mountain but also a lifelike giant reclining Buddha. From the viewing platform opposite, the majestic sight is breathtaking. Walk along the steps to get closer to the Reclining Buddha, admire its details, and take photos to capture this amazing sight. From the air, the full view of the Reclining Buddha is even more impressive, a testament to the wonders of nature.
In the evening, return to Yiyang County, stroll the streets, and feel the local atmosphere. Try local snacks such as taro dumplings, Yiyang rice cakes, and fried cakes. Taro dumplings are soft and glutinous with a delicious filling; Yiyang rice cakes are chewy and can be boiled or fried; fried cakes are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, with a fragrant aroma. While enjoying the food, talk to the locals, learn about their lives, and feel the warmth and friendliness of this small town.
Day 2: Natural Adventure in Guifeng
In the morning, head to Guifeng Scenic Area for a day of natural adventure.
Guifeng, a World Natural Heritage site, has 36 peaks and unique Danxia landforms that even Xu Xiake was captivated by. The peaks are of various shapes, some like turtles, some like fairies, making one marvel at the wonders of nature.
🚩There are several routes to choose from in Guifeng.
The Turtle Route takes about 3 hours and is 5 km long. Starting from the Osmanthus Garden, pass by the General's Tower and the Hero's Slope, and finally reach the Crape Myrtle Garden. The scenery along the way is beautiful, especially the Hero's Slope, where you can take photos with the majestic mountains in the background.
The Xiake Route takes about 3-4 hours and is 8 km long. Starting from the Turtle Welcome, pass by the Hundred-Year Road, the Heavenly Maiden Scattering Flowers, the General's Tower, and the Hero's Slope, and finally reach the Crape Myrtle Garden. Along the way, you can admire various strange mountain shapes and beautiful natural scenery.
For those with good stamina, the Full Route is a good challenge, taking about 4-5 hours and covering 10 km. Starting from the Osmanthus Garden, pass by the General's Tower, the Three Gates, the Southern Sky Pillar, and the Camel Peak, and finally reach the Clear Water Pond. On this route, you will have a more comprehensive view of the magnificent scenery of Guifeng.
During the tour, there are a few tips to keep in mind. First, the mountain roads in Guifeng are not difficult to climb, but the Hero's Slope is a great place for photos, so be sure to capture the moment. Second, there is a hidden rocking horse on the Golden Bell Peak, which is somewhat abstract in shape and requires careful searching, adding a touch of fun when you find it.
If you want to enjoy Guifeng at a leisurely pace, you can stay at the Kaiyuan Manju Hotel in Shangrao Guifeng. The hotel is only 50 meters from Guifeng, so you don't have to rush to climb the mountain the next day. In the new year, climb the mountain and enjoy the view, experience a new way of celebrating the new year outdoors, and inject energy and courage into the new year.
🍜Food and Accommodation
In Yiyang, in addition to the snacks mentioned above, there are many other delicacies worth trying.
For example, Yiyang oil-drizzled fish, with tender fish and a special sauce, is spicy and delicious; Yiyang braised pork, with a rich flavor, melts in your mouth.
For accommodation, if you like lively and convenient places, you can choose a hotel in Yiyang County; if you prefer tranquility and nature, a homestay near Guifeng is a good choice, where you can wake up in the morning and feel the beauty of nature.