The Jiangxi Academy of Forestry Sciences is an excellent destination for nature enthusiasts and those interested in ecological research. Visitors can enjoy walking through the lush gardens, learning about local forestry conservation efforts, and visiting various research centers. It’s a great place for educational tours focused on environmental preservation and plant species research.

The Jiangxi Academy of Forestry is a deputy-department-level institution directly under the Jiangxi Provincial People's Government. The Academy primarily conducts basic research, applied research, and development and utilization research on key scientific and technological issues in ecological and environmental protection and forestry industry development, including research on tree genetics and breeding, forest resource cultivation, economic forestry research such as woody grains and oilseeds, and applied research on agricultural and forestry biotechnology.
According to the information on the institute's official website in March 2019, the Academy of Forestry has a land area of more than 4,340 mu (the main campus has a land area of 890 mu), 13 research institutes under the academy, 1 botanical garden, 1 children's school, and 445 employees.
According to the official website of the institute in March 2019, the Academy of Forestry has established a number of basic scientific research resource platforms, including the National Rare Tree Species Gene Bank (Nanchang), the National Camellia Germplasm Resource Gene Bank, the National Bamboo Germplasm Resource Bank, the Southern Woody Grain and Oil Plant Germplasm Resource Garden, the Osmanthus Gene Bank, and the Rare Medicinal Plant Resource Gene Bank. Since 2014, a total of 19,000 mu of germplasm resource preservation gardens, scientific research and experimental bases, etc. for camellia, bamboo, fir, pine, paulownia, and Chinese medicinal materials have been established.
It has a subtropical monsoon climate. As of February 2018, the total area of the gene bank is 58hm2, making it suitable for travel and viewing in all seasons.
It is divided into three areas: ex situ collection area, in situ preservation area and measurement forest. The ex situ collection is divided into 8 gardens: timber forest garden, magnolia garden, camphor garden, cupule garden, maple garden, azalea garden, rhododendron garden and bamboo garden, covering an area of 31 hectares, collecting 830 germplasm resources of 83 tree species; the in situ preservation area covers an area of 21 hectares, supplementing, improving and protecting 800 rare tree species originally collected and preserved; the measurement forest covers an area of 6 hectares, which is suitable for sightseeing.
It is recommended to play for about 2 hours.
free
Open all day
The Jiangxi Academy of Forestry Sciences plays a vital role in forestry research and environmental conservation in the region. It is dedicated to studying local plant life, forest management, and promoting sustainable practices in forestry. The academy is significant for its contributions to biodiversity preservation in Jiangxi and serves as an educational hub for those interested in ecology and environmental sciences.
The Jiangxi Academy of Forestry Sciences is located in Nanchang, Jiangxi Province. You can take a taxi or private car to reach the academy. Public buses also have routes that pass near the area, but it may be most convenient to use a taxi or ride-sharing service for direct access.
The academy is typically open from 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM, Monday through Friday. The best time to visit is during weekdays when the facility is less crowded. Early mornings or late afternoons are ideal to avoid peak visitor times.
The entrance is generally free for most visitors, especially if you are attending educational or research-related activities. However, certain special tours or events may have a nominal fee. Tickets, if required, are typically purchased on-site, though it’s advisable to check in advance for any specific events.
Booking tickets in advance is usually not required, especially if visiting during normal hours. However, for special events or guided tours, it’s recommended to book a few days in advance to secure a spot.
You can fully explore the academy in about 1.5 to 2 hours. This includes walking through the gardens, visiting research centers, and learning about forestry practices. For a more in-depth tour, including talks or specialized sessions, you may want to allow 3 hours.
The must-see areas include the research facilities showcasing ecological studies, the botanical gardens featuring a variety of plant species, and the educational centers offering insights into sustainable forestry practices.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and audio guides are also offered in Chinese. English-speaking tours may be available on request, but it’s advisable to check availability beforehand.
The best photography spots are in the botanical garden, where you can capture diverse plant species, and near the research centers for a more academic-focused perspective. The surrounding greenery also provides a picturesque backdrop for nature photography.
Start with the main entrance, where you can get an overview of the site. Follow the marked paths that lead you through the botanical gardens, before heading to the research facilities. Conclude your visit with a stop at the educational center to learn about local conservation efforts.
Night visits are not available, and there are no light shows. The best time to visit is during daylight hours, especially when the weather is pleasant and the botanical garden is fully accessible.
The academy is generally quiet during weekdays, especially in the morning. Weekends can be busier with local visitors, so it's best to visit on a weekday for a more relaxed experience.
Basic facilities such as toilets and rest areas are available. There are no large restaurants or shops on-site, but you will find water stations and small snack areas. For meals, visitors can head to nearby restaurants in Nanchang.
The main areas of the academy are accessible to elderly visitors and children, with paved paths and rest areas. However, some areas may involve a bit of walking, so those with mobility issues may want to plan accordingly.
Mobile payments such as Alipay and WeChat Pay are widely accepted, and cards can also be used. Cash may be needed for small purchases in the academy’s snack areas.
There are no large restaurants inside the academy, but there are plenty of dining options around Nanchang city, including Chinese restaurants, cafes, and fast food outlets. It’s easy to find a place to eat after your visit.
Vegetarian and vegan options are available in many of the restaurants around Nanchang, as well as some nearby cafes. Halal food is more commonly found in the city, with a few specialized eateries offering such options.
There are various hotels in Nanchang ranging from budget to luxury options. Many hotels are within a short drive of the academy, including those near the city center for added convenience.
Nearby attractions include the Nanchang Honggutan District, Tengwang Pavilion, and Nanchang Star of Nanchang. These can easily be combined in a day trip with a visit to the academy.
There are no major souvenir shops inside the academy. However, you can find local souvenirs in Nanchang city, such as traditional crafts, artwork, and locally made products.
After visiting the Jiangxi Academy of Forestry Sciences, taxis or ride-sharing services are the best options for continuing your trip. You can also take public transportation from nearby bus stops to other parts of Nanchang.