Yaoli Ancient Town

What are the most recommended things to do in Yaoli Ancient Town?

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.


Introducing Yaoli Ancient Town

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.

Climate and best time to travel

Suitable for all seasons

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

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.

Tickets

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.

Attraction opening hours

08:00-18:00 all year round (some attractions such as Wanghu Ecological Tourist Area may extend the opening hours to 17:30)


Most Popular FAQs for Yaoli Ancient Town

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

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.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

  • Location: Yaoli Town (瑶里镇), Fuliang County, Jingdezhen City, Jiangxi Province, China.
  • By bus: From Jingdezhen take a direct bus to Yaoli (approx 1-1.5 hours) from Licunduan Bus Station.
  • By car/taxi: Drive about 50-60 km from Jingdezhen (mountain roads) to reach the town.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

  • The town itself is open all day (public area). Some specific sites within may have hours.
  • Best time: Autumn (September-October) for mild weather and colours; spring is also good; summer can be hot and rainy.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

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).

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

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.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

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.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

  • The Ming & Qing Commercial Street with Hui-style architecture.
  • The Yao River and the stone bridges, riverside scenery.
  • Ancient ceramic kiln ruins and mining pits around the town – linking to Jingdezhen’s porcelain heritage.
  • Forest walks and waterfalls in surrounding mountain areas (e.g., Wanghu Forest).

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

There is limited specific information about official guided tours or audio guides in multiple languages. Independent travel and self-guided walking are common.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

  • From a bridge or riverside path capturing white walls, black tiles, and the river reflection.
  • Early morning mist over the town in the valley – a dreamlike scene.
  • Overlooking the hillside and forest above the town for a panorama.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

  • Arrive at the main ancient town area → explore the old street and riverside → visit a kiln or ceramic workshop → walk a short nature trail or riverside path → relax at a tea-house or riverside café → if staying overnight, enjoy evening ambience and morning mist.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

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.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

  • Weekdays and off-peak seasons are quieter.
  • Weekends, public holidays, and autumn may see more visitors; arriving early gives a more relaxed experience.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

  • Basic tourist facilities exist: guesthouses, cafés, shops selling local crafts/ceramics.
  • Rest areas and riverside benches are available; bring comfortable shoes as paths may be uneven.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

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.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

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.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

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.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

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.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

There are guesthouses and small hotels in Yaoli Ancient Town and riverside inns. One example: “Yaoli Ancient Town Hotel” near the town core.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

  • The ancient kiln and ceramic production heritage sites around Jingdezhen.
  • Forest trails and waterfalls in the surrounding mountains of Fuliang County.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Yes — souvenirs include ceramics and porcelain ware, small pottery pieces, local tea and bamboo crafts. Visitors are encouraged to compare prices when buying ceramics.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

  • Return by bus or taxi back to Jingdezhen city centre or the railway station.
  • If driving, you may continue on to other scenic spots in Jiangxi or move toward Anhui province mountain villages.