Southern Jiangxi

Introducing Gannan

Gannan is the geographical abbreviation for the southern region of Jiangxi Province (Jiangxi Province is abbreviated as "Gan"), which mainly consists of three districts, 14 counties and one county-level city under the jurisdiction of the prefecture-level city of Ganzhou. [1] Gannan accounts for about a quarter of the total area of ​​Jiangxi Province and about one-fifth of the total population of Jiangxi Province.

Gannan has a long history of administrative division. In the fifth year of Wu Jiahe in the Three Kingdoms period (236), an administrative agency equivalent to the city level, the Southern Luling Commandery, was established. During the Song Dynasty, two administrative divisions, Nan'an and Ganzhou, were established, referred to as "Nan Gan". Because it is located in the upper reaches of the Gan River and southern Jiangxi, the Gannan Circuit and Gannan Circuit were established during the reign of Emperor Kangxi of the Qing Dynasty and the early Republic of China, respectively, and it is also commonly known as "Gannan".

Southern Jiangxi, known as the "Cradle of the Hakka People" and the "Hakka Homeland," is considered the Hakka stronghold of the Fujian-Guangdong-Jiangxi border region, along with western Fujian and eastern Guangdong. It is one of the three largest Hakka concentrations in China and one of the four Hakka provinces. The region boasts a rich Hakka culture, with a Hakka Cultural City and Hakka Museum. The primary language of the local population is Hakka (divided into the Ninglong and Yugui dialects, collectively known as Southern Jiangxi Hakka). On January 6, 2013, the Ministry of Culture officially approved the establishment of the national "Hakka Culture (Southern Jiangxi) Ecological Protection Experimental Zone" in Ganzhou City, Jiangxi Province.

Climate and best time to travel

Subtropical monsoon humid climate; Southern Jiangxi belongs to the southern edge of the mid-subtropics, with a mild climate, abundant heat, plentiful rainfall, a long frost-free period, and an average annual temperature of 18.9℃, making it suitable for travel in all seasons.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Tongtian Rock, Yugu Terrace, Bajing Terrace, Hakka Cultural City, etc.

Recommended 1-2 days of play

Tickets

free

Attraction opening hours

All day

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Most Popular FAQs for Southern Jiangxi

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

Southern Jiangxi, particularly Ganzhou, is rich in history with ancient towns, Hakka culture, and traditional architecture. It played a role in regional trade and military history, and its cultural heritage is preserved in temples, villages, and historical sites.

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

Located in southern Jiangxi Province, around Ganzhou city. Access is by train or bus to Ganzhou, followed by local buses or taxis to towns and scenic areas. Walking is common within villages and historic sites.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Most sites are open during daylight hours, approximately 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM. The best times to visit are spring and autumn for pleasant weather and scenic beauty.

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

Entrance fees vary by site, generally affordable. Tickets can be bought on-site or online through official tourism websites or travel platforms.

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

Advance booking is recommended for popular attractions or during festivals, ideally a few days in advance. Otherwise, tickets are usually available on-site.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

A full day to 2 days is recommended to explore key towns, scenic areas, and cultural sites.

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

• Ancient towns and Hakka villages
• Historic temples and ancestral halls
• Natural landscapes, mountains, rivers, and waterfalls
• Cultural performance areas and local markets

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

Guided tours are available in Chinese; English tours may be arranged with prior notice. Audio guides are limited.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• Riverside and waterfall areas
• Village streets and traditional Hakka architecture
• Temple courtyards and mountain overlooks
• Sunrise and sunset over scenic valleys

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

• Start at a historic town or village entrance
• Walk through streets, visit temples and cultural sites
• Stop at local markets and eateries
• Hike scenic trails and capture photography spots
• End at a major viewpoint or river for sunset

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

Night visits are limited. Special tours or performances may be arranged seasonally, particularly during local festivals.

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

Weekends and holidays attract more visitors. Weekday mornings are least crowded.

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

• Public toilets and rest areas
• Local restaurants, cafes, and snack stalls
• Shops selling handicrafts and souvenirs
• Drinking water points in some scenic areas

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

Partially accessible. Villages and scenic trails may have uneven paths, but main areas can be navigated by elderly and children with care.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is accepted, and mobile payments such as Alipay and WeChat Pay are commonly used.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

Local eateries serve Jiangxi cuisine, including Hakka dishes, snacks, and teas near towns and scenic areas.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian options are available. Vegan or halal options may be limited and should be confirmed in advance.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

Guesthouses, boutique hotels, and small inns are available near major towns and scenic areas for convenient stays.

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

• Ganzhou historic sites and temples
• Ancient Hakka villages
• Natural scenic areas like rivers, waterfalls, and mountains

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

• Handicrafts and traditional textiles
• Local snacks and teas
• Cultural artifacts related to Hakka and Jiangxi heritage

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

• Local buses or taxis to nearby attractions
• Private cars or guided tours for day trips
• Train or bus connections to other cities in Jiangxi