Compared to Jingdezhen, I prefer this small town featured in National Geographic.
Shangrao | A hidden gem in Jiangxi, a fantastic four-day, three-night journey
Among the many provinces in China, Jiangxi is like a secluded hermit, low-key yet brimming with natural beauty. Shangrao, a place I've visited many times, is a shining pearl within this hermit's embrace. Compared to the renowned Jingdezhen, Shangrao's unique charm and customs have captivated me, making it worthy of spending several days leisurely savoring its essence.
🌅【A Dreamy Four-Day, Three-Night Journey in Shangrao】
Day1️⃣:
Taking the high-speed train, I arrived at Wuyuan Station with lightning speed. The moment I stepped out, I seemed to have already caught a whiff of Shangrao's unique atmosphere. My first stop was Wunuzhou, an ancient town seemingly reborn from the dust of history. Stepping into it felt like traveling back to the prosperous Tang Dynasty. The streets and alleys were bustling with activity, boats shuttled leisurely under the bridges, laughter and chatter echoed, creating a vibrant atmosphere. As night fell, the breathtaking fireworks display illuminated the night sky, creating a dreamlike spectacle. I stayed overnight in Wunuzhou, falling asleep amidst the lingering charm of the Tang Dynasty.
Day2️⃣:
In the morning, I strolled through Wunuzhou again, experiencing the interwoven beauty of its daytime vibrancy and tranquility. Afterward, I set off for Huangling, a village recognized by *National Geographic* as one of the most beautiful. The rich atmosphere of daily life was palpable. Every corner offered a picturesque view, each season with its unique charm. In autumn, Huangling's golden hues complement the ancient architecture. At dusk, the setting sun casts a golden glow over the entire village, creating a breathtakingly beautiful scene. I spent the night in Huangling, allowing my soul to rest in this paradise-like place.
Day3️⃣:
Waking up with the sunrise in Huangling, I bid farewell to this beautiful place and headed to Shangrao Station, then transferred to Wangxian Valley. My first impression of Wangxian Valley was of the scattered pavilions on the cliffs, the winding river, and the ancient streets filled with folk customs, as if I had stumbled into a magical world from a fantasy game. I recommend staying overnight here. When the dusk light gently envelops the valley, its stunning beauty is truly revealed, resembling a celestial wonderland.
Day4️⃣:
Rising amidst the morning mist of Wangxian Valley, I set off for Gexian Village. This is a fairy-tale village nestled among mountains, like a pure land untouched by the world. During the day, I took a boat ride on the lake, feeding the large schools of koi fish. Thousands of koi gathered, creating a spectacular and delightful scene. As night fell, hundreds of flower lanterns lit up simultaneously. Strolling through the village in ancient costumes felt like traversing time and space, as if traveling back thousands of years. At the end of my journey, I boarded the train back from Shangrao Station, my heart filled with fondness for Shangrao.
🌟【The Charms of Each Scenic Spot】
✅Wangxian Valley:
Architecture and nature blend seamlessly, with precarious pavilions on cliffs and a winding river flowing with vitality. Traditional folk shops line the ancient streets, offering everything from handicrafts to local snacks. At dusk, the setting sun drapes the valley in a golden veil. As the light shifts, the pavilions seem to float in mid-air, creating the ultimate fairy-tale atmosphere. Staying overnight allows for an immersive experience of this dreamlike wonderland.
✅Gexian Village:
Mountains act as natural barriers, guarding this tranquil village. During the day, the lake water is crystal clear, and feeding the koi is a delightful experience, with the fish leaping and interacting closely with people. At night, the flower lanterns illuminate the ancient buildings, and visitors in ancient costumes stroll through the village, their every move exuding ancient charm, as if they have traveled through time to a grand celebration of ancient times.
✅Huangling:
Famous for its unique "shaiqiu" (sun-drying) custom, in autumn, the rooftops of every household are covered with drying crops, red peppers, and yellow corn, forming a colorful palette. The village is built against the mountain, with stone paths connecting each house, turning everyday life into a scenic view. At dusk, the warm light gently outlines the buildings, creating a picturesque rural landscape.
✅Wunuzhou:
The magnificent Tang-style architecture and captivating street performances, including acrobatics and dances, recreate the splendor of the Tang Dynasty. When the fireworks bloom, they illuminate the night sky, reflecting beautifully in the water. Boats sway gently, and the lively atmosphere infects everyone, intensifying the feeling of traveling back to the Tang Dynasty.
📌Each scenic spot in Shangrao is like a treasure trove, vast and rich in content, basically requiring a full day to explore its beauty. Especially Wangxian Valley, Wunuzhou, and Huangling, which are at their most beautiful at dusk. Stay overnight, take your time to appreciate them, and avoid rushing through. This carefully planned four-day, three-night itinerary allows you to relax and enjoy the essence of Shangrao, embarking on a journey away from the hustle and bustle, returning to nature.