Spring is the perfect season to embark on a self-driving adventure and explore the scenic beauty of Eastern China. With its diverse landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and mouth-watering cuisine, Eastern China offers an unforgettable experience for those who love to hit the road. From Nanchang to Poyang Lake, a self-driving tour in Eastern China promises to be an adventure of a lifetime.
This blog post will take you through the most breathtaking routes and must-visit destinations in Eastern China for an unforgettable self-driving experience this spring. So fasten your seat belts and get ready to explore the hidden gems of Eastern China.
Nanchang
Nanchang is the perfect place to start. This bustling city is the capital of Jiangxi province and is home to many historical and cultural attractions.
One of the must-see sites in Nanchang is the Tengwang Pavilion. This beautiful wooden structure dates back to the Tang Dynasty. This pavilion has been rebuilt and restored many times over the centuries. However, it still retains its original charm and elegance. You can enjoy stunning city and surrounding countryside views from the top of the pavilion.
Another popular attraction in Nanchang is the August 1st Nanchang Uprising Memorial Museum. This museum commemorates the 1927 uprising that began the Communist revolution in China. The museum features exhibits and artifacts that tell the story of this pivotal event in Chinese history.
To taste local culture, take advantage of the chance to try some of the regional cuisines; one of the most popular dishes is Nanchang Rice Noodles, a local specialty made from rice flour and served in a savory broth with various toppings. The city is also known for its spicy dishes, such as the Spicy Chicken and Spicy Fish Head, prepared with chili peppers and Sichuan peppercorns. Other famous local dishes include Fried Tofu Skin, Jiujiang Fried Rice, and Jiangxi-style Stewed Fish. With such diverse flavors and aromas, Nanchang’s culinary scene will surely please any food lover.
Driving tips: Nanchang City is about 313 kilometers from Jingdezhen City, driving time of about 6 hours and 20 minutes; from Nanchang to the southeast, take G320; over Yingtan to the north, take G206; over Leping can reach Jingdezhen.
Jingdezhen
In the northeastern part of Jiangxi province, Jingdezhen is known as the “Porcelain Capital” of China, and with good reason.
For centuries, Jingdezhen has been producing some of the finest ceramics in the world, using traditional techniques passed down from generation to generation. Today, the city is home to a thriving ceramic industry, with countless workshops, factories, and museums dedicated to the craft.
One of the best ways to explore Jingdezhen’s ceramic heritage is by visiting the Jingdezhen Ceramic History Museum. Here, you can learn about the city’s long history of ceramic production, see some stunning examples of porcelain artwork, and even try your hand at making your piece of pottery.
Another must-see attraction in Jingdezhen is the Ancient Kiln Folk Customs Museum. This museum is dedicated to the traditional art of kiln firing, an essential part of ceramic making. Here, you can see some of China’s oldest and most well-preserved kilns and learn about the various techniques used to fire pottery.
Of course, there’s more to Jingdezhen than just ceramics. The city is also home to some stunning natural scenery, including the picturesque Taohe River and the scenic Mount Luojia. And if you’re looking for a taste of local culture, check out the Jingdezhen International Pottery Festival, which takes place every October and features exhibitions, workshops, and cultural performances.
Driving tips: Jingdezhen City is about 87 kilometers from Wuyuan County, and driving time is about 1 hour and 30 minutes; from Jingdezhen, go east to G351, past Fuchun Town, and you can arrive at Wuyuan.
Wuyuan
Wuyuan is a picturesque county in Jiangxi province. It is known for its stunning natural scenery and ancient architecture, making it a must-visit destination for any traveler.
One of the highlights of Wuyuan is its collection of ancient villages, many of which date back to the Ming and Qing dynasties. These villages are characterized by their well-preserved traditional architecture, which includes delicate wood carvings, intricate stonework, and elaborate roofing styles. Some of the most popular towns include Likeng, Xiaoqi, and Jiangwan.
Another must-see attraction in Wuyuan is the sea of canola flowers that bloom every spring. These vibrant yellow flowers cover the countryside in a blanket of color, creating a stunning display that attracts visitors worldwide. The best time to see the canola flowers is between late March and early April, so plan your trip accordingly.
In addition to its cultural and natural attractions, Wuyuan is known for its delicious local cuisine. Must-try dishes include the Wuyuan tofu, made from locally grown soybeans and has a delicate, melt-in-your-mouth texture. The Wuyuan vinegar, made using a traditional fermentation process, has a sweet and sour flavor that pairs perfectly with stir-fried dishes.
Whether you’re an avid photographer, a culture enthusiast, or just looking for a peaceful getaway, Wuyuan will impress you.
Driving tips: Wuyuan County is about 100 kilometers away from Huangshan City, and the driving time is about 1 hour and 50 minutes; take G237 from Wuyuan to the northeast, cross Jiangwan and Sanxi, and arrive at Huangshan.
Huangshan
Huangshan, also known as Yellow Mountain, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of China’s most beautiful mountain ranges. The best time to visit Huangshan is in the spring when the blossoms are whole and the weather is pleasant.
The Huangshan self-driving route offers breathtaking mountain range views, lush greenery, and picturesque villages. The way is perfect for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and photographers. If you’re planning on taking this route, here are some of the must-visit places:
Yellow Mountain
The trip’s first stop starts with a visit to the Huangshan scenic area. You can take a cable car to the top of the mountain range and explore the various peaks, gorges, and waterfalls. You can also visit the famous Xihai Grand Canyon. This deep and narrow canyon offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
Hongcun
On the second stop of the trip, you can drive to Hongcun Village, a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in the Anhui Province. Hongcun Village is known for its traditional architecture, beautiful waterways, and peaceful surroundings. You can spend the day exploring the village, visiting its ancient temples, and trying out the local cuisine.
Jiuhua Mountain
On the trip’s final stop, you can drive to Jiuhua Mountain, a sacred mountain in the Anhui Province. Jiuhua Mountain is known for its stunning temples, beautiful scenery, and serene atmosphere. You can take a cable car to the top of the mountain and explore the various temples and pagodas.
Driving tips: Huangshan City is about 338 kilometers away from Jiujiang City, and driving time is about 7 hours; from Huangshan Mountain to the west, take G237 over Qi Yun Mountain, Qimen, and take S480, S234 to Dongzhi, then from Dongzhi to the southwest take G530 and to Jiujiang.
Jiujiang
Jiujiang, located in the mountainous region of Jiangxi province, is a charming city with many scenic spots.
Start your journey by driving along the Yangtze River and taking in the stunning views of the water and the surrounding mountains. You can stop at the Yangtze River Bridge and admire the engineering marvel that connects Jiujiang with Huanggang city.
Next, head to Lushan Mountain National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of China’s most beautiful natural attractions. The park is known for its impressive peaks, lush forests, and stunning waterfalls. Take a cable car to the top of the mountain and enjoy a panoramic view of the surrounding landscape.
After exploring Lushan Mountain, drive to the famous Gantang Lake, known for its clear waters and picturesque scenery. You can rent a boat and paddle around the lake or relax on the shore and enjoy the serene atmosphere.
Finally, end your journey with a visit to the Jiujiang Yangtze River Bridge Scenic Area, where you can walk across the bridge and take in the breathtaking views of the river and the city.
Driving tips: Jiujiang City is about 139 kilometers from the southern off-road base, driving time of about 2 hours 30 minutes; from Jiujiang, take G105 and to Yongxiu, then take X219 over Wucheng and to the southern off-road base.
Conclusion
As you can see, eastern China is a great place to explore by self-driving. From the lush green mountains to the breathtaking waterfalls, this route offers an unforgettable experience. The way is also dotted with charming towns and villages, where one can taste the local culture and cuisine.
It’s important to note that the route can be challenging for those not accustomed to driving in the mountains, so it’s essential to take the necessary precautions and be prepared. However, with proper planning and a sense of adventure, the Eastern China Spring Self-Driving Route is an excellent way to explore this part of China’s natural beauty and cultural richness.