Stroll along the cobblestone lanes of Yaoli Ancient Town, admire the Ming- and Qing-era Hui-style architecture, explore the old kiln ruins and mining pits that helped give rise to the ceramic culture of Jingdezhen, walk by the clear Yao River under ancient bridges, try a hands-on pottery or ceramic-making experience, and enjoy nature by hiking nearby waterfalls and forest trails.

Yaoli Ancient Town, located in Fuliang County, Jingdezhen City, Jiangxi Province, was formerly known as "Yaoli," named for its prolific production of ceramics since the Tang Dynasty. As one of the birthplaces of Jingdezhen porcelain and the origin of kaolin, it is known as the "Source of Porcelain, Hometown of Tea, and Sea of Forests."
Nestled between mountains and water, the ancient town boasts well-preserved Hui-style architecture. Dotted throughout are historical relics such as Ming and Qing commercial streets, ancient kiln sites, and revolutionary sites. The town boasts a rich cultural heritage and pristine natural beauty. With its quaint folk customs, tranquil landscapes, and rich historical relics, Yaoli has become a tranquil haven, tucked away from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Suitable for all seasons
Must-see attractions
include the Ming and Qing Commercial Street, a microcosm of ancient Huizhou commerce, where bluestone pavements and buildings with raised eaves create a striking contrast.
Wanghu Ecological Tourist Area: a natural wonder of Nanshan Waterfall and primeval forest, perfect for hiking and photography.
Raonan Ancient Kiln Ruins: a testament to ancient porcelain production, with porcelain fragments and kiln tools revealing a thousand-year history.
Chen Yi's Former Residence: a symbol of revolutionary culture, where you can learn about the history of the New Fourth Army's Yaoli Reorganization.
Ticket prices:
Combo ticket: 150 yuan/person (includes five attractions: Wanghu Ecological Tourist Area, Raonan Ancient Kiln Ruins, and Kaolin Mine Ruins).
Discounts: Free admission for children under 1.1 meters, seniors over 70, active military personnel, and persons with disabilities; half-price admission for children 1.1-1.4 meters, seniors 60-69, and students with a voucher.
08:00-18:00 all year round (some attractions such as Wanghu Ecological Tourist Area may extend the opening hours to 17:30)
Yaoli Ancient Town, located in Fuliang County under Jingdezhen in Jiangxi Province, is considered one of the birthplaces of Jingdezhen’s porcelain industry because of its rich deposits of porcelain stone (kaolin) and ancient kiln sites. It contains well-preserved Ming and Qing architecture, old water-powered mills, mining pits and dragon kilns that reflect its ceramic heritage and mountain-water culture.
Entry to the ancient town area is free. However, some individual attractions (kiln sites, park areas) may charge combined ticket fees (e.g., ~110 RMB for several spots).
No general booking required for town entry. If you plan to visit specific paid sites or stay overnight in popular guesthouses at peak times, booking ahead is advisable.
A leisurely visit to explore the main street, riverbanks and a kiln site takes about 2-3 hours; a fuller experience including nature trails, nearby waterfalls, and staying overnight can take half a day to one day.
There is limited specific information about official guided tours or audio guides in multiple languages. Independent travel and self-guided walking are common.
While not heavily commercialised, staying overnight offers a peaceful evening and morning atmosphere. No widely noted large-scale night light shows were found in sources.
Most of the town is walkable and suitable for children and elderly visitors who can walk comfortably. Some terrain is uneven (cobblestones, steps) so those with mobility issues should plan accordingly.
In China, mobile payments (WeChat Pay, Alipay) and bank cards are widely accepted; still wise to carry small cash for smaller vendors or rural stays.
There are local eateries in the town offering regional Jiangxi dishes, tea-houses along the river, and guesthouse cafés. Visitors comment on local flavour such as clay-pot soups, bamboo shoots, and simple snacks.
While specific listings are limited, vegetarian dishes (e.g., tofu, vegetable stir-fries) are likely available; halal options may require checking in Jingdezhen or bigger towns.
There are guesthouses and small hotels in Yaoli Ancient Town and riverside inns. One example: “Yaoli Ancient Town Hotel” near the town core.
Yes — souvenirs include ceramics and porcelain ware, small pottery pieces, local tea and bamboo crafts. Visitors are encouraged to compare prices when buying ceramics.