Lushan

What are the most recommended things to do in Lushan?

Explore the UNESCO-listed Lushan Mountain, renowned for its breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural heritage. Recommended activities include:

  • Hiking to Wulao Peak for panoramic views
  • Visiting the Three-Cascade Waterfall
  • Exploring the White Deer Grotto Academy
  • Strolling around Ruqin Lake
  • Taking a cable car ride for scenic vistas
  • Enjoying the serene atmosphere at Jinxiu Valley

Introducing Lushan

Mount Lu, also known as Kuang Lu, is located in Lushan District, Jiujiang City, in northern Jiangxi Province, south of Jiujiang County and west of Xingzi County. Known for its unique beauty, ruggedness, and grandeur, the mountain, river, and lake blend seamlessly into one, earning it the reputation of "Kuang Lu, the most picturesque mountain in the world."

Lushan, long known as the "Abode of the Immortals," boasts 12 scenic areas, 37 scenic spots, and 230 landscapes. Key attractions include Wulao Peak, Sandiequan, Hanpokou, Lulin Lake, and Donglin Temple. Lushan is a horst-block mountain, steep on the outside and beautiful on the inside. Its forest coverage rate reaches 76.6%.

Climate and best time to travel

You can enjoy beautiful scenery when traveling to Lushan all year round, but summer is the best time.

Spring (March-May): At this time, flowers are in full bloom and springs are gushing in Lushan. The winter jasmine in Guling Town, the magnolias in the former residences of famous people in Lushan (such as "Meilu", "Chengyuan", "Mutaozhai" or "Ailu"), the daphne in Jinxiu Valley and Wulao Peak, the daffodils in Sandiequan, and the azaleas in Lushan Botanical Garden are in full bloom.

Summer and Autumn (June-October): Lushan is as cool as spring in summer, and the waterfall under Sandiequan is very pleasant; from July to September, the weather landscape is ever-changing, such as sea of ​​clouds, waterfall mist, Buddha's light, etc.

Autumn and Winter (September - February): In autumn, the forest is covered with colorful leaves, while in winter, it is covered with snow. The beautiful cedar trees you can see create a completely different scene.



Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Wulao Peak of Lushan Mountain

Wulao Peak is located at the top of Lushan Scenic Area and is the most majestic and steep peak in Lushan.


Lushan Sandiequan

San Diequan, also known as the Three-Tier Spring or Water Curtain Spring, is located in Jiudie Valley in the southeast of Lushan Scenic Area. Known as the "First Wonder of Lushan," it's not actually a spring, but a waterfall. Water cascades from the northern cliffs of Wulao Peak, crashing into three tiers of rock to create a "three-fold" waterfall. The total drop is 155 meters, creating a truly magnificent spectacle. There's a saying: "If you haven't visited San Diequan, you haven't truly visited Lushan . "

The scenery of San Diequan varies with the seasons. Generally, the water volume is higher in late spring and early summer, when you can see the cascading waterfall, which is the best time to enjoy the San Diequan. Midsummer and winter, when there is less rain, offer a beautiful and graceful curtain of water.


Vale of Eternal Blossoms

From the overpass, follow the stone steps on the left to the Fairy Cave, which is a beautiful valley about 1.5 km long. This is the Jinxiu Valley of Lushan Mountain.

The valley is filled with cliffs, strange rocks, steep cliffs, and dangerous peaks, creating a breathtaking scenery that is like a splendid painting. The most famous scene is the Sky Bridge, where a legend about Zhu Yuanzhang has been left.


Recommended play time: about 2 days

Tickets

Tickets are 180 yuan per person (regardless of season), sightseeing bus tickets are 100 yuan per person


Attraction opening hours

All day


Most Popular FAQs for Lushan

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

Lushan Mountain, located in Jiangxi Province, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site recognized for its cultural landscape. It has been a center for Buddhist, Taoist, and Confucian teachings, influencing Chinese philosophy and art. The area is celebrated for its natural beauty, including waterfalls, peaks, and valleys, which have inspired poets and artists for centuries.

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

Lushan Mountain is situated in Jiujiang City, Jiangxi Province, China. To reach the mountain, visitors can take a bus from Jiujiang's Long-distance Bus Station or the tourism bus from Jiujiang Railway Station. The journey typically takes about 50 minutes.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The park is open year-round from 06:00 to 18:00. The best times to visit are during spring and autumn when the weather is mild, and the natural scenery is at its peak. However, visitors should be prepared for hot and humid conditions during summer months.

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

The entrance fee to Lushan National Park is CNY 160 per person. Additional costs include CNY 70 for the sightseeing bus and CNY 130 for a round-trip cable car ride. Tickets can be purchased online through platforms like Trip.com or at the entrance.

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

It is advisable to book tickets in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons, to ensure availability and avoid long queues. Booking a few days ahead is recommended.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

A visit to Lushan Mountain typically requires 1 to 3 days, depending on the number of attractions you wish to explore and your hiking preferences. A one-day tour can cover major highlights, while a longer stay allows for a more leisurely experience.

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

Key attractions include Wulao Peak, the Three-Cascade Waterfall, White Deer Grotto Academy, Ruqin Lake, Jinxiu Valley, and the scenic cable car ride offering panoramic views of the mountain.

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

Guided tours are available and can be arranged at the park entrance or through online booking platforms. These tours typically offer explanations in Chinese; however, some guides may provide services in English upon request.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

Notable photography spots include Wulao Peak for sweeping mountain vistas, the Three-Cascade Waterfall for dynamic water scenes, and the serene Ruqin Lake, especially during sunrise or sunset.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

A suggested itinerary starts with a cable car ride to the summit, followed by visits to Wulao Peak, the Three-Cascade Waterfall, and White Deer Grotto Academy. Conclude with a leisurely walk around Ruqin Lake and a visit to Jinxiu Valley.

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

The park operates during daylight hours only, from 06:00 to 18:00. There are no night visits or light shows; however, the park's natural beauty is best appreciated during the day.

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

The park can be crowded during weekends and public holidays. Visiting on weekdays, especially in the early morning, can help avoid large crowds. Spring and autumn are ideal seasons for a more tranquil experience.

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

The park is equipped with basic facilities, including toilets, rest areas, and food outlets. However, it's advisable to carry sufficient water and snacks, as some areas may be remote and lack amenities.

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

The park has made efforts to improve accessibility, with paved paths and shuttle buses available. However, some areas, especially hiking trails, may be challenging for elderly or disabled visitors. It's recommended to plan accordingly and consult with park staff for assistance.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Both cash and mobile payments (such as Alipay and WeChat Pay) are widely accepted within the park. It's advisable to carry some cash, especially when visiting remote areas where electronic payment options may be limited.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are several dining options within the park and in nearby Guling Town, offering local cuisine and refreshments. It's advisable to check operating hours in advance, as some establishments may close early.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

While vegetarian options are available, vegan and halal food choices may be limited. It's recommended to inquire at local restaurants or prepare accordingly if you have specific dietary requirements.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

There are various accommodations near Lushan Mountain, ranging from budget hotels to more luxurious resorts. Options include Guling Town hotels and resorts offering scenic views and easy access to the park.

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

Nearby attractions include Poyang Lake, China's largest freshwater lake, known for bird watching and natural beauty. Additionally, the ancient city of Jingdezhen, famous for its porcelain, is within a reasonable distance for a day trip.