Have you often seen on TikTok an ancient village perched on a cliffside, lit up with thousands of lights, its buildings shrouded in mist like a fairyland? This is the sight of Wangxian Valley in Shangrao, which has recently gone viral on international social media. Once an abandoned mining area, it has now transformed into a "real-life Xianxia world," attracting global travelers' attention. China's Ministry of Foreign Affairs even promoted its dreamy night view to the world.
But Wangxian Valley is just a key to unlock Shangrao, a treasure trove of a city. Located in the northeastern part of Jiangxi Province, Shangrao boasts Mount Sanqing, a World Natural Heritage site, Wuyuan, "China's Most Beautiful Countryside," and many other natural and cultural wonders unknown to foreign visitors. While Beijing and Shanghai are undoubtedly bustling, Shangrao preserves the unique charm of Chinese rural and mountainous experiences.
Tired of monotonous skyscrapers? A trip to Shangrao might surprise you.
Shangrao Overview: Essential Information You Need to Know
Geographical Location: Shangrao is located in the northeast of Jiangxi Province, bordering Zhejiang, Anhui, and Fujian provinces. It's approximately a 2-hour high-speed train ride from Shanghai and just 1.5 hours from Hangzhou.
Best Travel Time:
- Spring (March-May): Highly recommended! Wuyuan's sea of rapeseed flowers reaches its peak in mid-to-late March, with golden terraced fields complementing the white-walled, black-tiled Huizhou-style villages. Mount Sanqing's rhododendrons also bloom from April to May. Temperatures are moderate (15-25°C), perfect for hiking and photography.
- Autumn (September-November): Equally spectacular. The "Shaiqiu" folk custom landscape in Huangling, Wuyuan, and the maple leaves in Shicheng are breathtaking. Mount Sanqing frequently features sea of clouds, sunrises, and morning mists. The weather is cool (18-25°C), ideal for mountaineering.
- Summer (June-August): The mountains are excellent summer resorts. Mount Sanqing and Lingshan offer much cooler temperatures than the cities.
- Winter (December-February): Fewer tourists, making it a good choice if you prefer tranquility or anticipate snowscapes. However, temperatures are cold (can drop to 0°C), so warm clothing is essential.
Suggested Travel Duration: 5 days and 4 nights is ideal for a deep exploration of Shangrao, covering major attractions without being rushed. If time is tight, allow at least 3 days and 2 nights.
Recommended 5-Day 4-Night Itinerary
This itinerary will take you on a deep exploration of Shangrao's essence, balancing natural scenery, cultural experiences, and a relaxed pace.
Day 1: Arrive in Shangrao + Wangxian Valley
- Morning: Arrive at Shangrao Station (high-speed rail) or Sanqingshan Airport, check into your city hotel.
- Afternoon: Take a bus or taxi to Wangxian Valley (approx. 1 hour drive).
- Evening: Enjoy the dreamy light show in Wangxian Valley (recommended entry after 18:00, light show lasts until 22:00), experiencing the night charm of a "Xianxia world."
Day 2: Mount Sanqing Day Trip
- Early Morning: Depart from the city, take a high-speed train to Yushan South Station (approx. 15 minutes), then transfer to a tourist bus to Mount Sanqing Scenic Area.
- Morning-Afternoon: Take the cable car up the mountain and visit classic attractions such as Nanqingyuan, Oriental Goddess, Giant Python Exiting the Mountain, and West Coast Plank Road (5-6 hours).
- Evening: Return to the city or stay at the foot of Mount Sanqing (if you wish to see the sunrise, staying overnight on the mountain is recommended).
Day 3: Wuyuan East Route (Jiangling + Likeng)
- Morning: Take a high-speed train from Shangrao Station to Wuyuan Station (approx. 25 minutes), then rent a car or charter one to Jiangling Terraced Fields (best for rapeseed flowers in spring).
- Noon: Enjoy local farmhouse dishes in Jiangling Village.
- Afternoon: Visit Likeng Ancient Village (small bridges, flowing water, and local homes).
- Evening: Stay overnight in Wuyuan County town.
Day 4: Wuyuan Huangling + Sixi Yan Village
- Morning: Head to Huangling Scenic Area, take the cable car up the mountain to admire the terraced flower fields and the "Shaiqiu" landscape (best in autumn).
- Noon: Savor local specialties in Huangling. Visit Sixi Yan Village (ancient Huizhou architectural complex).
- Evening: Return to Shangrao city or stay one more night in Wuyuan.
Day 5: Guifeng / Lingshan (Choose One) + Departure
- Morning: Depending on your departure flight time, you can choose to visit Guifeng (Danxia landform, 2-3 hours) or Lingshan (Sky Mirror influencer spot, 3-4 hours).
- Noon: Enjoy a final local meal in Shangrao city.
- Afternoon: Head to the high-speed rail station or airport, concluding your pleasant Shangrao journey.
Wangxian Valley: A Xianxia World on the Cliff
Why is it worth visiting?
This was once an abandoned quarry, now transformed into an astonishing work of art. The biggest highlight is the cluster of Gan-style guesthouses built on hundred-meter cliffs – with yellow walls and black tiles, staggered exquisitely, like a "village hanging in the sky." As night falls, the entire valley lights up, from traditional lanterns to modern light shows, adorning the cliffs, ancient buildings, plank roads, and streams like a dream. This seems to perfectly match the Xianxia drama aesthetic popular with foreign visitors.
Ticket Price:
- Adult ticket: Approximately 120 RMB/person (online purchase about 100 RMB) Buy Tickets Online
- Children/Students/Seniors: Enjoy discounts or free admission.
- Package ticket: Including rafting and handicraft experience, approximately 268 RMB.
Opening Hours:
- Weekdays: 09:30 - 22:00
- Weekends/Holidays: 09:30 - 22:30
- Light show time: Starts around 18:00, continues until night.
How to Get There:
- From Shangrao Station to Wangxian Valley: Take the Wangxian Valley scenic area direct bus (approx. 30 RMB, 1 hour) or a taxi (approx. 100-300 RMB).
- Self-driving: Navigate to "Wangxian Valley Visitor Center Parking Lot," free parking.
Suggested Duration: 3-4 hours (recommended to arrive in the late afternoon to experience both day and night views).
Best Season: Suitable year-round, but spring and autumn offer the most comfortable weather. Misty weather makes the scenery even more ethereal.
Visitor Tips:
- During holidays, advance reservation is required via the WeChat official account "Jiuniu Wenlv."
- If you plan to take photos, bring your tripod – night photography requires long exposure.
- The valley can be cool at night, so it's advisable to bring a light jacket.
- The scenic area offers activities like rafting and grass dyeing; if interested, you can purchase an additional package ticket.
Mount Sanqing: The Grandeur of a World Natural Heritage Site
Why is it worth visiting?
Mount Sanqing is a UNESCO World Natural Heritage site and a China 5A-rated scenic area. It is renowned for its unique granite peak forest geomorphology – strangely shaped rock peaks rise from a sea of clouds, each resembling a natural sculpture. The two most famous peaks are the "Giant Python Exiting the Mountain" and the "Oriental Goddess" – the former like a massive serpent emerging from the mountain, the latter like a graceful female figure standing tall.
Beyond its peculiar landforms, Mount Sanqing is also a famous Taoist mountain, with a profound spiritual and cultural heritage. The West Coast and Sunshine Coast skywalks on the mountain are also unmissable experiences – walking on a cliffside at an altitude of 3000 meters, you can enjoy a 360-degree panoramic view of the valley and sea of clouds.
Ticket Price:
- Scenic area ticket: Approximately 120 RMB/person.
- Round-trip cable car ticket: Approximately 125 RMB/person (70 RMB for ascent, 55 RMB for descent).
- Ticket + cable car package: Approximately 245 RMB.
- Discounts: Seniors over 65 and students enjoy discounts or free admission.
Opening Hours:
- Weekdays: 08:00 - 17:30
- Weekends: 07:30 - 17:30
- Cable car operating hours are synchronized with the scenic area.
How to Get There:
- From Shangrao Station, take a high-speed train to Yushan South Station (approx. 15 minutes, about 25 RMB), then take a tourist bus or taxi to Mount Sanqing Scenic Area.
- Alternatively, take a direct bus from Shangrao Daihu Road Bus Station to Mount Sanqing (approx. 26 RMB, 90 minutes).
Suggested Duration:
- One-day trip: 5-6 hours (classic route).
- Two-day trip: Stay overnight on the mountain to watch the sunrise and sea of clouds, exploring more comprehensively.
Classic Tour Route (One-day trip):
Jinsha Cableway (up) → Giant Python Exiting the Mountain → Penguin Presenting Peach → Oriental Goddess → Rhododendron Valley → Yutai → Yixiantian (A Thread of Sky) → West Coast Scenic Area (Skywalk) → Sunshine Coast Scenic Area → Zhanhuang Peak → Jinsha Cableway (down).
Best Season:
- Spring (April-June): Rhododendron season, mountains covered in blossoms.
- Autumn (September-November): Best time to admire the sea of clouds, sunrise, and evening mist; cool and refreshing weather.
- Summer: Cool on the mountain, suitable for escaping the heat.
Visitor Tips:
- Wear sports shoes or hiking boots, as the mountain paths are long.
- Mountain weather changes quickly; bring rain gear and warm clothing.
- Food prices on the mountain are high; it's advisable to bring your own snacks and water.
- If you want to see the sunrise, you need to stay overnight on the mountain (there are several hotels and guesthouses).
- Special note: The cable car undergoes regular maintenance; please confirm its operating status before your trip.
- For visitors with acrophobia, the West Coast Skywalk might be challenging, but the views are superb.
Wuyuan: The Four Seasons of China's Most Beautiful Countryside
Why is it worth visiting?
Wuyuan is known as "China's Most Beautiful Countryside," preserving a large number of well-preserved Huizhou-style ancient villages. White walls, black tiles, horse-head walls, stone slab paths – this is the essence of Jiangnan water town style. What's most enchanting about Wuyuan are its seasonal landscapes:
Best Season:
- Spring (March-April): Ten thousand acres of rapeseed flowers bloom on the terraced fields, creating a classic Chinese pastoral scene with golden flowers and white-walled, black-tiled villages. Jiangling is the most famous viewing spot.
- Autumn (October-November): The "Shaiqiu" folk custom in Huangling Village is stunning – locals dry red chili peppers, golden corn, and various agricultural products on rooftops, creating a vibrant and spectacular display. The maple leaves in Shicheng also dye the village red.
- Wuyuan's attractions are divided into East, North, and West routes. For visitors with limited time, the East Route (Jiangling, Likeng, Wangkou) and Huangling are highly recommended.
Ticket Price:
- 5-day pass: 180-210 RMB/person (includes Jiangling, Likeng, Wangkou, Sixi Yan Village, and 10+ other attractions, not including Huangling).
- Huangling Scenic Area independent ticket + cable car: Peak season (March 8 - April 6) 170 RMB, off-peak season 145 RMB.
- Single attraction: 55-60 RMB.
Opening Hours:
Most scenic areas: 07:00-18:00 (specifics vary by attraction).
How to Get There:
- From Shangrao Station, take a high-speed train to Wuyuan Station (approx. 25 minutes, about 35 RMB).
- Wuyuan's internal attractions are scattered; it is recommended to rent a car, charter a car, or share a ride.
Suggested Duration: 2-3 days (0.5-2 hours per village).
Main Attraction Recommendations:
East Route (best for spring rapeseed flowers)
- Jiangling: Known as "one of China's four largest rapeseed flower seas," with magnificent terraced landscapes, a photographer's paradise.
- Likeng: Small bridges, flowing water, and local homes, a typical Jiangnan water town style.
- Wangkou: An ancient commercial village with exquisite wood carving art.
Independent Scenic Area
Huangling: 5A-rated scenic area, famous for "Shaiqiu" and terraced flower fields, with cable car access for panoramic views.
North Route (cultural villages)
Sixi Yan Village: Ancient Huizhou architectural complex, tranquil and beautiful.
- Rainbow Bridge: Ancient covered bridge, a masterpiece of architectural art.
Best Season:
- Spring (mid-March - April): Rapeseed flower seas in full bloom, the most popular period.
- Autumn (October-November): Shaiqiu landscape and maple leaves, equally spectacular.
- Fewer tourists in summer and winter, but you can experience a more serene rural life.
Visitor Tips:
- If you plan to visit multiple attractions covered by the pass, buying the pass is more cost-effective.
- Rapeseed flower season and Shaiqiu season are peak travel times; book accommodation in advance.
- Wuyuan is large and attractions are spread out; it's recommended to stay for 2-3 nights for a leisurely trip.
- The best time for photos is early morning and dusk, when the light is soft.
- For photography enthusiasts, staying near Jiangling or Huangling is recommended to easily capture morning and evening light.
Other Worthwhile Attractions
Guifeng: A Spectacle of Danxia Landforms
Guifeng is famous for its unique Danxia landforms and is a World Natural Heritage site and a 5A-rated scenic area. The most famous landscape is the "Elderly Peak" – shaped strikingly like an meditating elder. The scenic area also has Qinglong Lake, where you can take a boat trip and admire the magnificent "Water-Reflecting Danxia" scenery.
- Ticket: All-inclusive ticket (admission + sightseeing bus + boat) 160 RMB.
- Suggested Duration: 2.5-4 hours.
- How to Get There: From Shangrao Station, take a high-speed train to Yiyang Station, then transfer to a bus or taxi.
Lingshan: Sky Mirror Influencer Spot
Lingshan, known as the "Sleeping Beauty," is a famous Taoist mountain. The biggest highlight is the "Sky Mirror" influencer spot, offering panoramic views of Shangrao. The mountain also features the "Chinese Dragon Ridge" plank road and a glass skywalk, suitable for visitors who enjoy thrilling experiences.
- Ticket: 130 RMB (includes shuttle bus), ticket + round-trip cable car 175-195 RMB.
- Suggested Duration: 3-5.5 hours.
- How to Get There: There are dedicated bus lines from Shangrao Station directly to the scenic area.
- Special Note: The cable car will be undergoing maintenance from December 22, 2025, to January 15, 2026, and will be suspended during this period.
Other Niche Attractions
- Ehu Academy: A famous ancient academy with a rich cultural heritage.
- Qianshan Hekou Ancient Town: A well-preserved Ming and Qing dynasty ancient town, offering traditional Qianshan Tangfen (clear soup) and other delicacies.
Shangrao Delicacies: The Taste of Raobang Cuisine
Shangrao's "Raobang Cuisine" is an important branch of Jiangxi cuisine, blending mountain and plain flavors, featuring both freshness and spiciness. The food here is authentic and unpretentious; if you want to experience real Chinese local flavors, don't miss these specialties.
Shangrao Chicken Drumstick
This is Shangrao's most famous snack, originating from train platforms in the 1980s. Local chicken drumsticks are marinated with secret spices, stewed, and then baked. The skin is golden and crispy, the meat tender and juicy, savory and delicious. It has made many outsiders remember Shangrao. You can now find it in streets and alleys throughout the city.
Qianshan Hot Rice Noodles
This is Shangrao's most representative breakfast. High-quality rice noodles are quickly blanched in boiling water, then topped with a delicious broth made from pork or beef bones, garnished with shredded meat, chopped green onions, pickled vegetables, and other ingredients. Its characteristics are slippery and elastic rice noodles, savory broth, combining freshness, aroma, spiciness, and smoothness. You can taste the most authentic version in Qianshan Hekou Ancient Town.
Dexing Steamed Pork with Rice Flour
This is a hearty dish in Raobang cuisine. Fatty and lean pork belly is coated with rice flour ground from local high-quality rice mixed with spices like star anise and cinnamon, then steamed for a long time. The meat becomes tender and meltingly soft, dissolving in the mouth, while the rice flour fully absorbs the rich oil and aroma of the meat, resulting in a mellow taste.
Recommended Dining Spots
- Shangrao City: Many local restaurants can be found near the train station and around Wanda Plaza.
- Wuyuan: Farmhouse restaurants in various villages offer authentic Huizhou-style farmhouse dishes.
- Qianshan Hekou Ancient Town: Taste the most authentic Qianshan Hot Rice Noodles and Danbao Qingtang (egg drop clear soup). Wuyuan: Farmhouse restaurants in various villages offer authentic Huizhou-style farmhouse dishes.
Tips for Foreign Visitors:
- Shangrao cuisine is primarily spicy; if you don't eat spicy food, you can say "bù yào là" (no spicy) when ordering.
- Most restaurants do not provide English menus; you can use translation tools like ReadMenuAi.
- Prices are relatively inexpensive; a hearty meal costs about 30-80 RMB per person.
How to Get There and Local Transportation
Getting to Shangrao
High-Speed Rail (Recommended)
Shangrao Station is an important railway hub, with multiple high-speed rail lines converging here.
- From Shanghai: Numerous daily services, fastest approx. 2 hours 10 minutes, second-class seat 236-275 RMB.
- From Hangzhou: Over 70 daily services, fastest approx. 1 hour 20 minutes, second-class seat 157-196 RMB.
- From Beijing: Journey approx. 8 hours.
Flight
Shangrao Sanqingshan Airport (SQD) operates several domestic routes, connecting Beijing, Shenzhen, Qingdao, Chengdu, and other cities.
- Airport to city center: Take K001 express bus to Shangrao city center (approx. 90 minutes).
- Airport to Mount Sanqing: First take a bus to the city bus station, then transfer to a shuttle bus (total approx. 2.5-3 hours).
Local Transportation
Public Bus: Shangrao city has 29 bus routes, with a starting fare of 1 RMB.
Taxi: Daytime starting fare 6 RMB/2 km, then 1.9 RMB per km.
Shared E-bikes: Shared e-bike services are available in the city center for short-distance travel.
Car Rental: Chain companies like Shenzhou Car Rental and eHi Car Services offer rentals, with daily rates around 300 RMB.
Transportation Between Attractions
- Shangrao → Wuyuan: High-speed rail approx. 25 minutes, 34.5 RMB.
- Shangrao → Mount Sanqing: High-speed rail to Yushan South Station approx. 15 minutes, 24.5 RMB, then transfer to a shuttle bus or taxi.
- Shangrao → Wangxian Valley: Scenic area direct bus approx. 30 RMB (one hour) or taxi 100-300 RMB. Shangrao → Wuyuan: High-speed rail approx. 25 minutes, approx. 35 RMB. Shangrao → Mount Sanqing: High-speed rail to Yushan South Station approx. 15 minutes, approx. 25 RMB, then transfer to a shuttle bus or taxi.
Suggestions for Foreign Visitors:
- It is recommended to download "Baidu Maps" or "AutoNavi" (Gaode Maps), which can be set to an English interface.
- Ride-hailing apps: Baidu Dache, Gaode Dache, can be linked to international credit cards.
- If you don't speak Chinese, it's advisable to book a car charter service or join a local day tour.
Shangrao is vast with scattered attractions, making the choice of accommodation crucial. Your accommodation choice should depend on your core itinerary.
Shangrao City (Xinzhou District)
Suitable for: Arriving by high-speed rail, planning to visit multiple counties, or as a transitional stay for the first/last night of your trip.
Advantages: Convenient transportation, serving as a hub connecting Wuyuan, Mount Sanqing, and other areas. Rich dining options in the city.
Recommended Hotels:
- Economy: Chain hotels like Hanting, Atour (around the high-speed rail station), 200-350 RMB/night.
- Comfort: Hotels near Wanda Plaza or in the city center, 400-600 RMB/night.
Mount Sanqing Accommodation
Suitable for: Those coming specifically for Mount Sanqing, wishing to have ample time for hiking and watching the sunrise and sea of clouds.
Staying at the foot of the mountain:
- Jinsha Service Area (Eastern cable car): Newer hotels, such as Hilton Sanqingshan Resort.
- Waishuangxi Service Area (Southern cable car): More developed amenities, with many farmhouse guesthouses (150-300 RMB/night).
- Boutique Guesthouses: "Wang Sanqing" Art Cluster, 300-500 RMB/night.
Staying on the mountain: If you want to see the sunrise, you need to stay on the mountain, but prices are higher and facilities are simpler.
Wuyuan Accommodation
Staying in the county town (Xicheng Street):
- Advantages: Convenient for dining, shopping, and transportation to various attractions. More hotel options and better value for money.
- Recommended: Chain hotels like Hanting Wuyuan Culture Plaza Hotel, 200-400 RMB/night.
Staying within the scenic area (e.g., on Huangling Mountain):
- Advantages: Enjoy the exclusive morning and evening light, experience local customs.
- Suitable for: Photography enthusiasts, visitors wishing to capture morning and evening scenery.
- Price: 300-800 RMB/night.
Booking Advice
- Peak seasons (spring rapeseed flower season, March-April) and autumn (October-November) require booking accommodation 1-2 weeks in advance.
- Booking platforms: Trip.com, Booking.com both have English interfaces and allow booking hotels in Shangrao.
- Guesthouses: If you wish to experience local life, you can choose village guesthouses, but need to book in advance via WeChat or phone.
Practical Travel Tips
Cultural Etiquette
- Temple etiquette: When visiting Buddhist or Taoist temples, dress appropriately and avoid loud noises.
- Photography: Photography may be prohibited inside temples and some museums; please pay attention to signs.
- Tipping: Tipping is not mandatory in China, but high-end restaurants and hotels may include a service charge.
Best Travel Experience Tips
- Slow down: Shangrao is not a place to rush through attractions; allow ample time for each place.
- Wake up early: The most beautiful light is in the early morning and dusk; waking up early allows you to avoid crowds and take great photos.
- Try local life: Visit local morning markets, try street food, and chat with villagers; you'll discover a more authentic China.
- Respect nature: Mount Sanqing and Wuyuan are ecologically sensitive areas; please do not litter and protect these beautiful places.
For more useful tips on Chinese culture and tourism, you can check out the China Travel Guide, a must-read for first-time visitors to China.
Conclusion
Shangrao is a severely underestimated city in China. It lacks the modern prosperity of Shanghai or the historical depth of Beijing, but it possesses a purer beauty of Chinese landscapes and rural life. From the mist-shrouded peaks of Mount Sanqing to the Huizhou-style villages amidst golden rapeseed flower fields, and the brilliantly lit Wangxian Valley on the cliff – these are Shangrao's unique charms.
If you yearn to escape the tourist crowds and explore a more authentic, tranquil China, then Shangrao is the place for you. Take this guide and begin your journey to Shangrao!