Longquan in Jiangxi stands out for its ancient celadon kiln ruins nestled within dense bamboo forests, where centuries-old ceramic craftsmanship once flourished distinct from Longquan in Zhejiang. Hidden in the mountainous border region near Wuyuan, this Jiangxi town preserves unique Hakka cultural traces and untouched Ming-style village layouts rarely seen elsewhere in China.
Notable points about Longquan
- Longquan in Jiangxi is uniquely home to ancient red soil tea terraces that glow copper in the sun, unlike anywhere else in China.
- Unlike more industrial cities in Jiangxi, Longquan preserves its rural heritage with stone courtyard villages like Shuidong that's remained unchanged for generations.
- The best time to visit is late March to early May when the tea fields bloom and the surrounding mountains burst into color with wild azaleas.
- Longquan offers a very low-cost travel experience, with countryside homestays starting at 80 RMB/night and meals under 30 RMB.
- Join a traditional tea-roasting session with local farmers during spring harvest season to truly connect with the area's cultural roots.
- Don’t miss “Longquan smoked tofu stew” — a smoky, savory dish unique to this corner of Jiangxi, best tried at roadside inns near Nanxi Village.
- Local buses connect most rural attractions, but renting an e-bike or hiring a local driver gives you freedom to explore the remote tea trails and forest shrines.
- Visit the hidden waterfall at Jiulong Valley, where locals picnic and swim in clear pools surrounded by bamboo and rare orchids.
- English is rarely spoken, but locals are friendly and gestures go a long way; always greet elders with two hands when offering or receiving anything.
- Watching the mist roll over tea-covered hills at sunrise from Longtou Peak is a breathtaking moment that will stay with you forever.