Where to go on the weekend: Complete Guide to Touring Lushan

📍Location

Lushan is located in Jiujiang City, Jiangxi Province. It is a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site and a national 5A-level scenic area, famous for its "majestic, unique, steep, and beautiful" features, known as "Kuanglu, the most magnificent and beautiful under heaven."

🚗 Transportation Guide

1. External Transportation
- 🚂 High-speed train: After arriving at "Jiujiang Station," take a taxi to Jiujiang South Bus Station (about 10 RMB), then take a minibus directly to Guling Town, Lushan (about 15 RMB, 1 hour).
- ✈️ Airplane: From Nanchang Changbei Airport or Jiujiang Lushan Airport, transfer by bus or high-speed train to Jiujiang city center, then head up the mountain.
- 🚗 Self-driving: You can drive up the mountain (a vehicle toll of 45 RMB is required). The mountain road is steep, so cautious driving is recommended.
2. Internal Transportation
- Scenic area shuttle bus: 80 RMB per person (valid for 7 days, a must-buy! The distances between attractions are long, relying on the shuttle bus for connection).

🌟 Must-visit Attractions & ⏰ Opening Hours

1. Hanpoukou 🌅
- Highlights: The best spot to watch the sunrise and view Poyang Lake. The morning sea of clouds is incredibly stunning!
- Hours: Open all day (sunrise recommended between 4:30-5:30, varies slightly by season).
2. Wulao Peak 🗻
- Highlights: Five peaks resembling old men. Climb to the top for panoramic views of the mountains and Poyang Lake.
- Hours: Open all day (allow 2-3 hours, hiking required).
3. Sandiequan Waterfall 🌊
- Highlights: "Not visiting Sandiequan is not a true Lushan visitor." A three-tier waterfall with a 155-meter drop, majestic and powerful.
- Hours: 7:00-18:00 (over 1,400 steps down, about 2 hours round trip; cable car available for those with less stamina).
4. Ruqin Lake 🎻
- Highlights: The lake is shaped like a violin, surrounded by green trees, perfect for walking and photography. The evening light is breathtaking.
- Hours: Open all day.
5. Jinxiu Valley 🌈
- Highlights: A 1.5 km long canyon with jagged rocks, featuring sky bridges and steep peaks. Filming location of "Lushan Love."
- Hours: 7:00-18:00 (about 1.5 hours walking, relatively flat terrain).
6. Meilu Villa 🏡
- Highlights: Former residence of modern celebrities, blending Chinese and Western architectural styles, offering insight into Lushan’s history.
- Hours: 9:00-17:00 (last entry at 16:30).

💰 Ticket Information

- Lushan Scenic Area General Admission: 160 RMB per person (peak season April-October), 135 RMB per person (off-season November-March), valid for 3 days.
- Sandiequan Cable Car: 50 RMB one way, 80 RMB round trip (optional).
- Meilu Villa: 25 RMB per person; Lushan Conference Site: 50 RMB per person (tickets can be purchased separately or as a combo).

💡 Tips

- The weather on the mountain changes frequently; bring rain gear and a light jacket (it can be cool even in summer).
- Guling Town is the living area on the mountain with convenient dining and accommodation options; consider staying here.
- Avoid peak holiday periods for a better experience!

Hope you have a great time at Lushan and enjoy the beautiful scenery to the fullest! 🌲✨