Wuyuan County, located in Jiangxi Province, is often referred to as “China’s Most Beautiful Countryside.” Known for its picturesque villages, stunning landscapes, and rich cultural heritage, Wuyuan is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts.
This “How to Get to Wuyuan” guide will help you navigate your journey to Wuyuan, highlighting the best routes, attractions, and accommodations. Whether you’re coming from Shanghai or elsewhere, we’ve got you covered with all the essential information.
1. Why Visit Wuyuan?
Wuyuan is famous for its well-preserved ancient villages, which offer a glimpse into traditional Chinese architecture and rural life. The region is particularly stunning during spring when the fields are filled with vibrant yellow rapeseed flowers.
In autumn, the scenery transforms with beautiful red maple leaves. Wuyuan’s scenic areas, including the Huangling Scenic Area, provide breathtaking views and unique cultural experiences.
2. Best Time to Visit Wuyuan
The best time to visit Wuyuan in China is during the spring season, particularly from late March to early April. This is when Wuyuan is known for its stunning display of blooming rapeseed flowers, creating a picturesque landscape. The fields of bright yellow flowers against the backdrop of traditional white-walled houses and ancient bridges offer a breathtaking sight.
In addition to the spring season, autumn (September to November) is another favorable time to visit Wuyuan. During this time, the weather is mild and pleasant, and the surrounding hills and forests turn into a vibrant palette of colors as the leaves change.
It’s worth noting that Wuyuan is a popular tourist destination, especially during the peak blooming periods in spring. If you prefer to avoid crowds, consider visiting during weekdays or early in the morning when fewer tourists gather.
3. Where is Wuyuan County?
Wuyuan County is located in the northeastern part of Jiangxi Province, China. It is part of the Shangrao administrative area. Wuyuan is strategically positioned near several prominent cities and regions, making it accessible from various directions.
To the northwest, it is close to Jingdezhen, famous for its porcelain. Nanchang, the capital city of Jiangxi Province, lies to the southwest. To the east, you will find Shangrao, another key city in the province.
Additionally, Wuyuan is near the picturesque Huangshan (Yellow Mountain) in Anhui Province, to the north. This central location makes Wuyuan a convenient destination for travelers exploring the rich cultural and natural heritage of the surrounding areas.
4. How to get to Wuyuan
To get to Wuyuan in China, you have several transportation options depending on your starting point. Here we suppose you start from Shanghai or other cities in China.
From Shanghai to Wuyuan
By Train
Taking a train from Shanghai to Wuyuan is one of the most convenient options. You can catch a high-speed train from Shanghai Hongqiao Railway Station to Wuyuan Railway Station. The journey takes approximately 3 to 4 hours. Tickets can be purchased online or at the station. It’s advisable to book your tickets in advance, especially during peak travel seasons.
By Bus
Alternatively, you can take a long-distance bus from Shanghai to Wuyuan. Buses are available from various bus stations in Shanghai, including Shanghai South Long-Distance Bus Station. The bus ride takes around 6 to 8 hours. While this option is longer than the train, it provides a scenic route through the countryside.
By Car
If you prefer driving, you can rent a car in Shanghai and drive to Wuyuan. The distance is approximately 450 kilometers, and the drive takes around 5 to 6 hours. This option gives you the flexibility to stop along the way and explore other attractions.
From Other Cities to Wuyuan
By Air
The nearest airport to Wuyuan is Jingdezhen Airport, located about 90 kilometers away. You can fly into Jingdezhen from major Chinese cities like Beijing, Shanghai, and Guangzhou. From Jingdezhen, you can take a taxi or bus to Wuyuan, which takes around 2 hours.
By Train
Wuyuan is well-connected by train to several major cities, including Beijing, Guangzhou, and Hangzhou. High-speed trains make it easy to reach Wuyuan from these cities. The travel times vary depending on the distance but are generally quite efficient.
5. Traveling Within Wuyuan County
Once you arrive in the downtown of Wuyuan County by train or bus, or self-drive , there are several ways to explore the area.
By Bus
Buses are available at the exit of Wuyuan Station and Wuyuan Old North Station, heading to various scenic spots and villages within Wuyuan County.
You can choose your bus based on your travel route. From Wuyuan Old North Station, you can take buses to all the scenic areas in Wuyuan. The first and last buses run from 07:30 to 17:30, so be mindful of the time. The east travel line bus to Huangling runs every 20 minutes and costs 18 RMB. The north travel line bus to Sixi Yancun runs every hour, so plan accordingly.
Chartered Car
Given the dispersed nature of Wuyuan’s scenic spots, it can be more convenient to hire a car, especially for larger groups.
Typically, one route is covered per day. During peak season, the east travel line costs around 450 RMB, and the north travel line costs around 550 RMB, but prices may vary. Different vehicle types also have different prices.
By Bicycle
Renting a bicycle is a popular choice for tourists who want to explore Wuyuan at their own pace. The countryside roads are relatively flat and safe for cycling. You can rent bicycles from various rental shops in the town.
By Taxi
Taxis are readily available in Wuyuan and can take you to most tourist attractions. It’s a comfortable and time-efficient way to travel, especially if you’re visiting multiple sites in a day.
6. Travel Routes and Duration
Wuyuan, renowned for its stunning landscapes and ancient villages, offers three main travel routes: the East Travel Route, the North Travel Route, and the West Travel Route. Each route presents unique attractions and scenic beauty, making Wuyuan a diverse and rich destination.
East Travel Route
The East Travel Route is the most popular among visitors. This route is famous for its picturesque villages and vibrant spring flowers. Key attractions include Likeng, Wangkou, Jiangwan, Xiaoqi, Huangling and Jiangling.
In spring, the fields are adorned with blooming rapeseed flowers, creating a breathtaking sea of yellow. This route is ideal for photographers and nature enthusiasts. It is recommended to spend 1-2 days exploring the East Travel Route.
North Travel Route
The North Travel Route is also highly popular, known for its historic architecture and serene landscapes. Major sites include Sixi Yancun, Rainbow Bridge, Wolong Valley, Lingyan Cave, and Sixi.
The autumn leaves transform this route into a colorful wonderland, making it a favorite during the fall season. The North Travel Route also requires 1-2 days to fully appreciate its beauty and heritage.
West Travel Route
The West Travel Route is less frequented but offers unique attractions like Yantian Ancient Camphor Tree and Wengong Mountain.
This route provides a quieter experience, perfect for those seeking tranquility. One day is typically sufficient to explore the West Travel Route.
Ideal Duration in Wuyuan
To fully enjoy Wuyuan, plan for a 3-4 day trip. This allows ample time to explore the popular East and North routes and take in the seasonal beauty of spring flowers and autumn leaves. Wuyuan’s diverse attractions ensure a memorable visit, whether you’re there for nature, culture, or photography.
7. Must-Visit Attractions in Wuyuan
Huangling Scenic Area
Huangling Scenic Area is one of the most famous attractions in Wuyuan. Known for its traditional Huizhou-style architecture and stunning terraced fields, Huangling offers a picturesque view year-round.
The best time to visit is in spring and autumn, when the scenery is particularly breathtaking. You can take a cable car to the top of the village for a panoramic view.
Likeng Village
Likeng Village is another must-visit spot in Wuyuan. This ancient village is over 900 years old and features well-preserved traditional houses and stone bridges.
The village is surrounded by lush greenery, making it a perfect place for leisurely walks and photography.
Sixi Yancun Village
Sixi Yancun Village is known for its beautiful ancient architecture and serene environment. The village is divided into two parts, Sixi and Yancun, each with its unique charm.
Walking through the narrow alleys, you’ll encounter traditional houses, ancestral halls, and charming courtyards.
Jiangling Terraced Fields
Jiangling Terraced Fields are a sight to behold, especially during the spring when the fields are covered with blooming rapeseed flowers.
The terraced fields create a stunning landscape that is perfect for photography. Early morning and late afternoon are the best times to visit for the best lighting.
Rainbow Bridge
The Rainbow Bridge is a historical wooden bridge built during the Song Dynasty. It is one of the most famous ancient bridges in Wuyuan and offers a picturesque view of the surrounding countryside.
The bridge is a great spot for a leisurely stroll and to capture beautiful photos.
8. Entrance Fees for Wuyuan Scenic Areas
Wuyuan has 12 major scenic spots that are widely dispersed. It is recommended to self-drive or hire a car for convenience. The 12 scenic spots are divided among three routes: north, east, and west. It is advisable to spend 1-2 days exploring the attractions on one route.
Huangling Scenic Area Ticket: Individual ticket: 145 RMB/person (includes Huangling adult ticket + cable car); B Ticket: 325 RMB (includes Wuyuan 12 Scenic Spots pass + Huangling adult ticket + cable car).
Wuyuan 12 Scenic Spots 5-Day Pass: Approximately 210 RMB/person, individual spot ticket: around 60 RMB/person. Includes:
- East Line: Likeng, Wangkou, Jiangwan, Xiaoqi, Jiangling.
- North Line: Sixi Yancun, Rainbow Bridge, Wolong Valley, Lingyan Cave, Sixi.
- West Line: Yantian Ancient Camphor Tree, Wengong Mountain.
Purchasing tickets online in advance costs only 180 RMB (must be purchased in advance). If you plan to visit more than three spots, it is more cost-effective to buy the pass!
Huangling + Shimenxia Combo Ticket: 160 RMB/person (with the combo ticket, Shimenxia only costs 15 RMB).
Purchase Methods: Tickets can be booked in advance on online platforms or purchased at the Wuyuan Tourist Service Center and ticket offices at various scenic spots.
9. Best Time for Rapeseed Flower Blossoms
The best time to view the rapeseed flowers in Wuyuan is from mid-March to mid-April. During this period, the rapeseed flowers are in full bloom, especially in higher-altitude areas like Jiangling, Qingyuan and Huangling, making it the ideal time for viewing.
In the blooming season, Wuyuan’s rapeseed flowers are most famous in the terraced fields of Jiangling and Huangling. Especially, Jiangling has four viewing platforms, allowing you to enjoy the spectacular terraced rapeseed fields and ancient villages from different angles.
Please note that the blooming time of the rapeseed flowers may be influenced by factors such as temperature. Therefore, the specific best viewing time might be slightly earlier or later than expected.
10. Best Time to View Autumn Colors in Wuyuan
Autumn in Wuyuan is like a painting, with stunning landscapes and vibrant fall colors. Here, you will find fiery red maple leaves, golden ginkgo trees, and snow-white reed flowers.
As the saying goes, “After visiting the Five Great Mountains, you won’t want to see any other mountains; after visiting Jiuzhaigou, you won’t want to see any other waters; after visiting Wuyuan, you won’t want to see any other villages.”
Harvest Drying: From mid-August to early December, colorful drying racks of chili peppers, corn, and yellow chrysanthemums create a splendid autumn scene.
Autumn Harvest: From mid-September to mid-October, the golden season showcases fields of golden rice paddies and blooming royal chrysanthemums.
Royal Chrysanthemums: From early October to mid-November, gardens full of chrysanthemums add rich colors to the ancient Huizhou architecture.
Persimmons: From mid-October to late December, bright red persimmons combined with Huizhou-style buildings create a picturesque scene.
Red Maples: From early November to early December, red maple leaves and tallow trees dye the rural villages red, with thousand-year-old fragrant maples covering the mountains and fields.
Ginkgo: From mid-November to early December, ginkgo leaves turn yellow, painting autumn with the beauty of golden leaves.
11. Accommodation Options
Wuyuan offers a range of accommodations to suit different budgets and preferences. Here are some recommended options:
Luxury Hotels
Wuyuan International Hotel
Located in the heart of Wuyuan downtown, this hotel offers luxurious rooms, modern amenities, and excellent service. It’s a great choice for travelers looking for comfort and convenience.
Huangling Resort
Situated near the Huangling Scenic Area, this resort provides stunning views of the terraced fields and traditional villages. The rooms are well-appointed, and the resort offers various facilities, including a spa and restaurant.
Mid-Range Hotels
Wuyuan Qiyun Hotel
This mid-range hotel offers comfortable rooms and is conveniently located near major attractions. The hotel provides good value for money and has a friendly staff to assist with your needs.
Likeng Village Guesthouse
For a more authentic experience, consider staying in a guesthouse in Likeng Village. These guesthouses offer cozy accommodations in traditional buildings, giving you a taste of local life.
Budget Accommodations
Wuyuan Youth Hostel
Perfect for budget travelers, this hostel offers clean and affordable dormitory rooms and private rooms. It’s a great place to meet other travelers and share travel tips.
Homestays
There are several homestays available in Wuyuan, offering budget-friendly accommodations with local families. Staying in a homestay provides a unique cultural experience and allows you to immerse yourself in the local lifestyle.
12. Local Cuisine in Wuyuan
Wuyuan doesn’t have a wide variety of representative dishes, but if you’re planning to visit Wuyuan, here are five must-try local specialties that you shouldn’t miss.
- Qigao (Steamed Rice Cake) – To energize your body in the morning, Qigao is the top choice for Wuyuan locals. Vegetables are sprinkled on rice batter, steamed over high heat, and finally topped with a layer of spicy sauce, instantly awakening your taste buds.
- Kuzhu Tofu (Bitter Chestnut Tofu) – This cooling tofu is sliced and cooked with chili and minced garlic over high heat. Its soft and glutinous texture combined with a slightly bitter taste and the spicy kick from the chili will refresh your spirit.
- Qingming Guo (Qingming Festival Cake) – Another iconic Wuyuan breakfast item, Qingming Guo is made using dumpling wrapping techniques. It comes with tofu and radish fillings, offering a delightful taste.
- Fen Zheng Rou (Steamed Pork with Rice Flour) – Made with the finest farmhouse pork and glutinous rice flour, this dish has a tender and fragrant taste. The pork is fatty but not greasy.
- Hongshao Liyu (Braised Carp) – Made with pouch red carp, this dish has a distinct flavor compared to regular carp. In addition to being nutritious, it also has significant medicinal value. The braised red carp is succulent, fragrant, and not fishy. You definitely shouldn’t miss it.
13. Tips for Traveling in Wuyuan
Language
While Mandarin is the official language, many locals speak the Wuyuan dialect. English is not widely spoken, so it’s helpful to learn some basic Mandarin phrases or use a translation app.
Currency
The local currency is the Chinese Yuan (CNY). Make sure to carry enough cash, as credit cards are not widely accepted in rural areas. ATMs are available in the town center.
Weather
Check the weather forecast before your trip. Spring and autumn offer the best weather for travel, but it’s always good to be prepared for rain, especially if you plan to explore the countryside.
Clothing
Wear comfortable clothing and shoes, especially if you plan to hike or walk around the villages. Layers are recommended, as the temperature can vary throughout the day.
Photography
Wuyuan is a photographer’s paradise. Bring a good camera and extra batteries. The best times for photography are early morning and late afternoon when the lighting is soft and golden.
Wuyuan is a hidden gem in Jiangxi Province, offering breathtaking landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and a glimpse into traditional Chinese rural life. Whether you’re visiting for the vibrant spring flowers or the colorful autumn leaves, Wuyuan promises an unforgettable experience. With this “How to Get to Wuyuan” guide, you’re well-equipped to plan your trip and explore the best of Wuyuan. Safe travels!
If you have any questions or queries, then please feel free to drop us a line.
