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Located in southwestern Jiangsu Province, Jintan boasts a rich history, with inhabitants dating back to the Stone Age. During the Spring and Autumn Period, Jintan was part of the Wu region. During the Warring States Period, it was annexed by Yue and Chu. During the Qin and Han Dynasties, it was incorporated into Qu'a County, and during the Jin Dynasty, it became Jinshan Township in Yanling County. During the peasant uprising at the end of the Sui Dynasty, local residents established Jinshan County.
Here is Maoshan, a holy place of Taoism in China, where "peaks emerge from the clouds and smoke rises from the valley". It is covered with trees and mist, and has Taoist three palaces and five courtyards, caves, springs, pools and other natural landscapes, which make people feel that "flowers are flying for three thousand miles to the Buddhist land, and people are on the twelfth floor of Yao Peak"; there is also Tao Lake, where "the cool moon is like a hook hanging in the bay, and the scenery of Jiangnan is seen in the mirror", and the dense water network composed of numerous rivers and reed marshes, which make people appreciate the infinite charm and artistic conception of the "land of fish and rice".
Autumn is the best time to travel to Jintan. The climate is pleasant and the scenery is beautiful. You can also taste fresh and authentic Taohu velvet crabs (Changdanghu crabs).
Maoshan
Located at the junction of Jurong and Jintan cities in Jiangsu Province, Maoshan Mountain, formerly known as Juqu Mountain, is a renowned Taoist mountain in China. Taoists call it the "Eighth Cave Heaven, the First Blessed Land," and "the Residence of Immortals in the Qin and Han Dynasties, and the Home of Prime Ministers in the Liang and Tang Dynasties." It is the birthplace of the Shangqing School of Taoism. Ge Hong of the Eastern Jin Dynasty, Tao Hongjing of the Qi and Liang Dynasties, Wang Yuanzhi and Wu Yun of the Sui and Tang Dynasties, and Wang Qixia and Zhu Huaide of the Five Dynasties were all renowned Taoist masters, considered great masters of Chinese Taoism.
Recommended play time: 1-2 days
Jintan is a district of Changzhou in Jiangsu Province with a rich historical and cultural background. It has been known for traditional crafts, historical temples, and its scenic landscapes, making it a culturally significant area in southern Jiangsu.
Jintan is located in Changzhou, Jiangsu. Visitors can reach it by bus or taxi from Changzhou city center. Walking and local bike rentals are convenient for exploring scenic areas and town streets.
Most scenic and cultural sites are open year-round. Spring and autumn are the best times due to mild weather and beautiful landscapes.
Many public areas and town streets are free. Tickets for attractions like Tianmu Lake or cultural sites can be purchased onsite or online through official portals.
Advance booking is generally not required for regular visits but recommended for popular scenic spots or during festivals, ideally 1–3 days in advance.
A full day is recommended to explore Jintan’s main scenic spots, cultural sites, and local markets comfortably.
Guided tours are mainly available in Chinese; private English-speaking guides may be arranged upon request.
Start with Tianmu Lake for scenic views, proceed to local temples and heritage streets, and finish with markets and gardens near the town center.
Night activities are limited. Some festivals or seasonal events may offer evening tours or performances.
Jintan is moderately visited. Weekdays and non-holiday periods are the least crowded.
Facilities include public toilets, restaurants, small shops, rest areas, and visitor centers in scenic spots.
Main town areas and major scenic spots are mostly accessible, though some hilly areas may be challenging for mobility-impaired visitors.
Mobile payments are widely accepted; cash is useful for small vendors or rural areas.
Local restaurants and cafes offer Jiangsu cuisine, snacks, and tea houses in town and near scenic areas.
Vegetarian options are widely available; halal options may be limited but can be found in some eateries.
Jintan offers hotels, guesthouses, and inns near the town center and scenic areas. Larger hotels are in Changzhou city.
Souvenir shops are available near scenic areas. Common items include local crafts, specialty teas, and cultural handicrafts.
Taxi, bus, or private car services connect Jintan to Changzhou city and nearby towns. Train stations in Changzhou provide connections to other regions.
