Ji'an Voyage Tips and guide

Ji'an (集安 Jí'ān) is in Jilin province in north east China.

Large city on the North Korean border, and historical second capitol of the Korean Goguryeo kingdom.

Ji'an, this millennium-old ancient city located in central Jiangxi, not only bears the red memories of Jinggangshan, the cradle of China's revolution, but also embodies the refined literary elegance of Tang and Song dynasties, making it a severely undervalued treasure.

The red gene is thick.

Ji'an is a revolutionary base in Jinggangshan, known as the "Red Museum without walls," with over nine hundred red sites. Visiting Huangyangjie and Zhiping Mao Zedong's former residence exudes the tense atmosphere of the past; visiting Qingyuan Mountain Jingju Temple also allows one to experience a tranquil "red power."

millennium-old cultural heritage

Ji'an, known as Luling, was a cultural hub of the Tang and Song dynasties. Wen Tianxiang, Ouyang Xiu, and Yang Wanli all emerged from here, with nearly 3,000 scholar-officials in history. The Bai Lu Zhou Academy, Diaoyuan Ancient Village, and Meipi Ancient Village all convey the city's profound cultural atmosphere.

The mountains and waters are also very impressive.

Besides Jinggangshan, the surrounding areas of Ji'an also feature Wu Gong Mountain's "cloud meadow," the Zen scenery of Qingyuan Mountain, and even lesser-known treasure sites like the summit of Suichuan.

The most convenient option is to take the high-speed rail to Ji'anxi Station, where modern accommodations are available, with bus and taxi connections right after exit, making it easy to get to the city center.

• Ji'an West Station. It is a major stop along the Changgan High-Speed Railway, with numerous services that can directly connect to cities such as Nanchang and Ganzhou. (updated Dec 2025)

Tip: Check train schedules and pick up your ticket/scan code in advance on the ticketing app. Upon arrival of the high-speed rail, see the stop sign for a taxi or bus transfer.

Driving is great for those who want to flexibly arrange their itinerary. Ji'an is located in the central part of Jiangxi, with a well-developed road network. Nearby attractions are typically within a short drive—such as about half an hour from Diaoyuan Ancient Village to the city center (depending on road conditions). Importing the attraction address into the navigation and checking parking information before departure will be more hassle-free.

41°7′59″N 126°10′59″E

Map of Ji'an

How do I choose city transportation?

• Public transportation: Buses within the city can reach major attractions, with bus stops near Bai Lu Zhou Academy. Common routes directly connect to the surrounding areas of the scenic spots. Make sure to check the names of the boarding and alighting stations before getting in.

• Ride-hailing / ride-hailing: the most hassle-free way, especially to locations with fewer buses and more hassle-free transfers (such as night tours or remote scenic areas). The prices are reasonable for short trips, so it's recommended to call a taxi in advance during peak hours.

• Shared Bicycles / Cycling: Suitable for short trips around the city center, offering flexibility and a more down-to-earth feel. Don't forget to wear a helmet when you go out and pay attention to traffic.

Practical Tips

1. If you're only staying for one day, prioritizing high-speed rail to Gianxi and then taking a taxi for two or three stops would be more efficient.

2. High-speed rail fares and schedules fluctuate with the seasons/holidays, so please book your tickets in advance for holidays.

3. After arriving at the station, if you need to go to Bai Lu Zhou Academy, you can confirm the nearest bus route at the information desk or hail a ride directly to save time.

• 41.1656126.15861 Wandu Mountain City (丸都山城, 환도산성). Ruins of the second capitol city of the Korean Goguryeo Kingdom (updated Feb 2016)

• 41.156944126.1872222 Capital Cities and Tombs of the Ancient Koguryo Kingdom. 40 tombs from the Korean Goguryeo kingdom period (updated Feb 2016)

• 41.125126.0533 Tomb of the General (将军冢, 장군총). Although disputed, this large pyramid is considered to be the royal tomb of either King Gwanggaeto or his son King Jangsu of the Goguryeo kingdom. (updated Sep 2019)
• Jinggangshan： is not only the "cradle of China's revolution," but also a picturesque ecological haven. Here, you'll find both rich red history and stunning natural scenery, making it perfect for a journey of physical and mental cleansing. Source of the Red Spirit: In 1927, Mao Zedong led the Autumn Harvest Uprising forces to Jinggangshan, establishing China's first rural revolutionary base and opening up a revolutionary path of "surrounding cities and seizing power with arms," fostering the spirit of Jinggangshan. Huangyangjie: one of the most classic red landmarks. Standing at the control point and watching the mountain wind blowing, it seems that you can feel the tense atmosphere of that year. Ziping Mao Zedong's former residence: It is very original and simple, so that people can feel the living conditions in those years more intuitively.

  

  •Wuzhifeng Scenic Area: the best part of the natural scenery. If the weather is good, you can see the spectacular sea of clouds.

  

  •The former site of the Red Army Hospital and the Revolutionary Museum: suitable for those who want to learn more about the history of Jinggang Mountain.Jinggangshan

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  Bai Luzhou ：Academy is a millennium-old institution located in the heart of the Gan River in Ji'an City, Jiangxi Province, and is known alongside Bai Lu Cave, Goose Lake, and Yuzhang as one of the "Four Great Academies of Jiangxi," symbolizing Luling culture. The name of the academy derives from the verse by Tang Dynasty poet Li Bai, "Three mountains and half-settling blue sky, two waters divide Bai Lu Zhou." It is located on Bai Lu Zhou, a shuttle-shaped oasis formed by river water accumulation, surrounded by water on all sides, resembling a heron. The continent is lush with forests and herds of herons. 1. Lecture Hall and Study: These are the core areas of the academy, showcasing the rigor and attention to detail of ancient "scholars." 2. Lakefront Path: The water surface next to the academy is very open, creating a lively atmosphere in the early morning or late afternoon.

  

  3. Stele Carvings and Couplets: Many are associated with celebrities like Ouyang Xiu and Yang Wanli, and those who enjoy literature will feel very immersive.
• Ji'an Wugong Mountain is a truly undervalued treasure mountain in Jiangxi. It shares the same mountain range as Pingxiang, but Ji'an's entrance is more niche and the route is more friendly, making it perfect for those who want to see the big scenery without getting too tired from walking. The greatest charm here lies in that majestic high mountain meadow, complemented by clouds, sunrise, and windmills, truly making one feel like they've stepped into a fairyland. Must-visit highlights 1. Golden Summit Cloud Sea (You really should go up the mountain to see it once) The most "heart-stopping" scenery of Wugong Mountain is at the Golden Summit. In the early morning, the cloud sea rises slowly from the valley, submerging the entire golden meadow in a layer of light mist. The windmill appeared and disappeared among the clouds, sunlight filtered through the fog, and in an instant, the entire summit lit up—far more shocking than the photos showed. 2. Highland meadow (100,000 acres of soft "green sea") This meadow is truly healing. With the wind blowing, the grass surface rises and falls like waves, and the air is filled with a clean scent. Wandering down any path, it looks great; the lighting and shadows on the grass have a particularly "Japanese movie" feel, and every shot is a blockbuster. 3. Starlight Campground (Even More Stunning at Night on Wu Gong Mountain) If the weather is nice, it is strongly recommended to spend the night at the tent campsite on the mountain top. At night, looking up, the sky is filled with stars, the Milky Way is visible to the naked eye, and the sound of the wind blowing over the tent is also very pleasant. Waking up in the morning to watch the sunrise is a kind of beauty that silences people.

  

  Ticket information: During the peak season (April-October), tickets cost approximately 90 yuan, during the off-season, 70 yuan, plus a 30 yuan scenic area transportation ticket, making the total price around 100 yuan. Holders of Guangdong, Hong Kong, and Macao ID cards can enjoy free admission and only need to pay 30 yuan for scenic views. Accommodation Options: There are multiple tent campsites available for booking at the summit, making it an excellent choice for watching sunrise and starry skies, but note that the summit is windy and humid. There are also many homestays at the foot of the mountain, priced at around 120 yuan per night. Equipment Recommendation: There is a significant temperature difference at the summit, so it's important to have a windproof and warm jacket or thin down jacket ready even in summer. Wearing a pair of comfortable anti-slip hiking shoes is important and can effectively prevent foot rubbing. Bringing high-calorie snacks and water, the prices on the mountain are relatively high.

  

  Best time: April-May when rhododendrons bloom, autumn colors are most beautiful from October to November, summer is cool to avoid the heat, and winter offers opportunities to observe rime. Make sure to check the weather forecast before you depart to avoid strong winds and heavy rain.

At the intersection of Jizhou District's Book Street, there hides a well-known "Changshu Lao Clear Soup Store". Coming here, there are two signature dishes you shouldn't miss.

One is clear broth, priced at ten yuan per bowl. The skin is as thin as a cloud veil, smooth to the touch; the meat filling is fragrant and aromatic, and after eating it, one loses interest in ordinary clouds. The only distinctive feature is the slightly rich pepper flavor, which has become a memorable point.

Another option is stir-fried meat powder, which costs ten yuan as well. Upon entering the store, I noticed that almost every table had a plate, so I ordered one along with it. The rice noodles are stir-fried until they are crispy and dry, with a slight chewiness. The meat threads and bean sprouts blend together—seemingly ordinary, yet incredibly flavorful, leaving one unable to stop eating them one at a time.

Here there is no fancy decor; only the genuine aroma and freshness of the pot. If you visit Ji'an and want to try the taste of the small shops that locals love, this place is definitely worth a visit.

📍 Address: Ji'an Changshu Lao Clear Soup Store (Book Street Mouth Branch)

In the town of Zhiping on Jinggangshan Mountain, there is a particularly renowned café called "People's Café." Opened in a revolutionary holy site, yet conveyed through coffee, it exudes a relaxed and everyday atmosphere.

I recommend trying the "Wealth God Milk Coffee." Not only does the name convey good meanings, but the details are also full of ingenuity: the cup noodles are not just ordinary embroidery, but edible glutinous rice paper prints; when heated, the cup case slowly reveals words, exuding a strong sense of ritual. Although the milk flavor is slightly stronger and the bean aroma is slightly lighter, the deep burnt aroma is still clear, and the foam is thick and dense. As a influencer store next to a scenic area, this cup of coffee is a genuine work.

The two floors of the store are spacious with ample seating, offering minimal noise and congestion from influencer shops, making it perfect for sitting down and slowly sipping coffee to relax. Before you leave, why not grab a 9-yuan strawberry ice cream — the porcelain cup is adorable and can also be taken as a memento?

If you're visiting Jinggangshan looking for a place to rest without being too touristy, this might be the perfect spot.

📍 Address: No. 20 Nanshan Road, Zhiping Town, Jinggangshan City, Jiangxi Province, E-13-A

Giangrain Cloud Sky International Hotel

· Positioning: Luxury Edition | Opened in 2022

· Highlights: Top 1 on Ji'an Hotel's popular list · Fully equipped with an indoor pool, gym, business conference room, and children's meals and robot services · Just a 6-minute drive from Ji'an West Station, convenient for shopping and dining nearby

· Suitable for travelers seeking a comfortable experience, business trips, or family vacations.

Vienna Hotel (Ji'an Jinggangshan Branch)

· Positioning: Premium | Opened in 2019

· Highlights: Top-rated hotel in Jinggangshan City · Strategically located, "Tianjie as soon as you step out," right next to Jinggangshan Scenic Area · Rated 4.8, with excellent reviews

· Price reference: Group-buying package starting at approximately 279 yuan (for deluxe twin rooms)

· Suitable for visitors to Jinggangshan who focus on location and value for money

Vienna Hotel (Ji'an People's Square Branch)

· Positioning: Premium | Opened in 2016

· Highlights: Located in People's Square in Ji'an city, it's right next to the food street, offering convenient living. It's about a 12-minute drive from Ji'an Railway Station. Group buying prices are more affordable (starting at approximately 219 yuan).

· Rating: 4.3 points, fully equipped with all necessary facilities, suitable for short stops or city sightseeing.

· Suitable for: budget-conscious travelers who enjoy shopping and dining and need convenient transportation