Shangrao: A Hidden Gem Beyond Jingdezhen

When people think of Jiangxi Province in China, Jingdezhen, the "Porcelain Capital," often comes to mind. However, tucked away in the same region is a lesser-known treasure: Shangrao. This charming city, recommended by National Geographic, offers breathtaking scenery, rich cultural heritage, and a tranquil atmosphere that feels worlds away from the bustling tourist hubs. If you’re seeking an authentic and immersive experience, Shangrao is the perfect destination for a leisurely exploration.

A Relaxed 4-Day Itinerary to Discover Shangrao

To truly appreciate the beauty of Shangrao, take your time with this thoughtfully planned four-day itinerary:

Day 1: Arrive at Wuyuan Station – Explore Wunüzhou – Stay Overnight in Wunüzhou

Begin your journey in Wunüzhou, a place that feels like a gateway to the Tang Dynasty. The vibrant streets, captivating fireworks displays, and boats gliding under the bridges create a lively and celebratory atmosphere. Spend the evening soaking in the festive spirit and stay overnight to experience the full magic of this ancient riverside town under the glow of twilight.

Day 2: Wunüzhou – Travel to Huangling – Stay Overnight in Huangling

On your second day, head to Huangling, often called "China’s Most Beautiful Village" by National Geographic. This picturesque village is famous for its seasonal landscapes and unique “晒秋” (sun-drying) tradition, where crops are artistically displayed on drying racks outside homes. The village's charm is at its peak in autumn, and the golden hour just before sunset offers breathtaking views. Stay overnight to immerse yourself in the serene village atmosphere.

Day 3: Huangling – Shangrao Station – Visit Wangxiangu – Stay Overnight in Wangxiangu

From Huangling, travel to Wangxiangu, a stunning valley that looks like it belongs in a fantasy world. With cliffside pavilions, winding rivers, and ancient streets steeped in folklore, this destination offers an unforgettable experience. The valley is especially enchanting at dusk when its beauty truly comes alive. A night spent here will leave you feeling as though you've stepped into a martial arts epic.

Day 4: Wangxiangu – Explore Gexian Village – Return via Shangrao Station

Your final day takes you to Gexian Village, a hidden “immortal village” surrounded by mountains. By day, you can enjoy a tranquil boat ride, feeding the colorful koi fish as they gather around your boat. At night, the village transforms into a fairytale-like setting, illuminated by hundreds of lanterns. For an extra magical touch, don traditional Chinese attire and wander the streets—it’s a surreal experience that feels like stepping into a different era.

✅Wangxian Valley

There are pavilions on the cliffs and a winding river. Folk flavor full of ancient streets, from afar like a game of fairy world, it is recommended to stay one night, dusk moment its beauty gradually show!

✅Katsushika Village

Surrounded by mountains, Ge Xian Village is a fairy village, where you can swim in the boat and feed the fish during the day, followed by a thousand koi carp, and a hundred lanterns are lit at night, so you can put on an ancient costume and walk around here, and have a feeling of traveling through the world.

✅ Huangling

National Geographic rated the most beautiful village, where the flavor of life is very strong, just a place are very good-looking! Every season is different, autumn is the most beautiful, dusk moment is also the most beautiful very beautiful!

✅Wuwuju

There is really a feeling of dreaming back to the great Tang Dynasty here! Amazing fireworks display, boats passing under the bridge ~ the streets and alleys are bustling with joyful atmosphere will render each other!

Highlights of Shangrao

Wunüzhou

This riverside area offers an energetic yet historic vibe. The nightly fireworks and the sight of boats weaving under ancient bridges create a lively but nostalgic ambiance. It’s a wonderful place to experience traditional Chinese festivities.

Huangling

A village that seamlessly blends tradition and nature, Huangling is a photographer's paradise. From the vibrant patterns of sun-dried crops to the timeless beauty of its architecture, every corner of this village is picture-perfect.

Wangxiangu

Wangxiangu feels like a mythical world come to life. The dramatic cliffs, ancient streets, and serene waterways make it one of Shangrao’s most iconic destinations. It’s best enjoyed at sunset, when the valley's golden hues are at their most striking.

Gexian Village

Known as the “Village of the Immortals,” Gexian Village combines natural beauty with cultural charm. Whether feeding koi fish during the day or strolling under lantern-lit skies at night, the village offers a sense of timeless wonder.

Shangrao

Every attraction in Shangrao is huge. Basically need a day, Wangxian Valley, wuwu zhou, Huangling are more beautiful at dusk moment, it is recommended to stay one night. Do not walk around the day to go to two attractions, this four-day, three-night strategy just easy and can play to the essence of the point.