Jingdezhen (景德镇), located in the northeastern part of Jiangxi Province, serves as a transitional zone between the Huangshan and Huaiyu Mountain ranges and the Poyang Lake Plain. Known as the “Porcelain Capital,” it is one of China’s four renowned pottery towns, alongside Foshan in Guangdong, Hankou in Hubei, and Zhuxian Town in Henan.
Though the streets of Jingdezhen may appear narrow and unremarkable at first glance, they are filled with an artistic atmosphere that permeates the town. It is often said that to understand Chinese porcelain, one must start in Jingdezhen. The town stands as a significant symbol of Jiangxi Province and China as a whole. Stepping into Jingdezhen, visitors are greeted by an aura of refinement; the essence of this thousand-year-old porcelain capital continues to flow throughout the area, embodying a unique charm that makes it a hub for the global ceramics industry.
As the birthplace of porcelain, Jingdezhen has been crafting ceramics since the Eastern Han Dynasty, with kiln workshops established long ago. The exquisite blue-and-white porcelain produced here was once exported to countries in Europe and beyond. Notable attractions, such as the Jingdezhen Ancient Kiln Folk Museum and the Yaoli Scenic Area, are closely tied to the town’s rich porcelain heritage, making them must-visit destinations for those exploring this unique cultural landscape.
Travel Information about Jingdezhen
Ticket Prices and Opening Hours
Ticket Prices:
- Yaoli Ancient Town: 110 RMB
- Ancient Kiln Folk Museum: 95 RMB
Opening Hours:
- Yaoli Ancint Town: 8:00 AM – 5:30 PM
- Ancient Kiln Folk Museum: 8:00 AM – 5:30 PM
Best Time to Visit
The best time to explore Jingdezhen is in the autumn when the weather is cool and pleasant. Each season offers its unique charm, making the town a year-round destination.
Getting to the Scenic Areas
Location:
Yaoli is situated in Caoketang, Yaoli Town, Fuliang County, Jingdezhen.
The Ancient Kiln Folk Museum is located at No. 1, Ancient Kiln Road, Porcelain Capital Avenue, Jingdezhen.
Transportation:
High-speed trains are available from Huangshan to Jingdezhen.
Upon arrival in Jingdezhen, take bus No. 16 to Fuliang County, where buses to Yaoli can be found at the county bus station.
From Jingdezhen city center, you can take buses No. 2, 12, or 55 and get off at the Fengshushan Station to reach the Ancient Kiln Folk Museum.
Attraction Ratings
- Cultural Experience: ★★★★
- Distinctive Features: ★★★
- Leisure: ★★★
- Scenic Beauty: ★★★★
- Romantic Atmosphere: ★★
- Adventure: ★
Highlights of Jingdezhen
Ancient Kiln Folk Museum
The Ancient Kiln Folk Museum features over 50 main attractions, including ancient porcelain workshops, the Town Kiln, the Temple of the God of Pottery, a group of ancient kilns, the Temple of the Goddess of Heaven, and the Porcelain Monument Corridor. Here, visitors can gain a deep understanding of the thousand-year history of Chinese ceramic culture.
The museum also hosts performances, such as rituals honoring the kiln god, traditional performances by female ceramic musicians, and demonstrations of ancient porcelain-making processes like shaping and painting clay. This creates a rich artistic atmosphere.
The architecture within the museum is both ancient and elegant, with cleverly arranged old workshops and utilitarian kilns, making it a must-visit destination for ceramic enthusiasts. The ancient kiln display area showcases the craftsmanship of Jingdezhen’s hand-made porcelain from the Ming and Qing dynasties through attractions like the ancient porcelain workshops, the world’s oldest porcelain production line, the Qing Dynasty Town Kiln, and the Ming Dynasty Gourd Kiln.
Nestled in a city surrounded by green mountains and adorned with blooming flowers, the elegant and beautiful porcelain culture of Jingdezhen has undergone a transformation from its inception to its development and preservation. Throughout the centuries, while everything around has changed, the porcelain makers of Jingdezhen have remained true to their original intentions, diligently crafting exquisite artworks that bring beauty to China and the world.
Porcelain Music Performance
Within the Ancient Kiln Folk Museum, there is a unique ensemble known as the Porcelain Band, whose instruments are entirely made from Jingdezhen porcelain. In ancient times, it was quite popular in China to create musical instruments from porcelain, including porcelain cups, flutes, and bamboo pipes.
The Porcelain Band made its debut at the 1999 Kunming World Horticultural Expo, where it immediately captivated audiences. Since then, the band has performed multiple times in countries such as Japan, Russia, Armenia, and various Southeast Asian nations. Their performances beautifully blend the rich heritage of porcelain craftsmanship with the art of music, showcasing the cultural significance of Jingdezhen’s ceramics in a vibrant and engaging way.
Yao Li Ancient Town
Yao Li Town is renowned as the birthplace of ceramics in Jingdezhen, often referred to as the “Source of Porcelain, Land of Tea, and Sea of Forests.” With a history spanning over a thousand years, Yao Li is now recognized as a National Historical and Cultural Town.
The ancient town is characterized by villages built along the water, surrounded by majestic mountains and flowing streams, creating a picturesque atmosphere filled with the sounds of birds and the fragrance of flowers. This enchanting setting adds a vibrant charm to the lives of the local people in the porcelain capital.
Yao Li features five major scenic areas and dozens of attractions, categorized into natural landscapes and cultural sites. Key areas include the Wanghu Ecological Tour Area, the Porcelain Tea Ancient Town Area, the Meiling Leisure and Vacation Area, the Kaolin Mine Heritage Park, and the Ruanan Porcelain Theme Park.
The most beautiful sights can be found in the Wanghu Ecological Tour Area and the Meiling Leisure Area, where dense forests, babbling streams, and a wide variety of plant and animal life thrive. This region harmoniously combines mountains, water, rocks, and forests, offering breathtaking scenery that changes with the seasons—making it a fantastic destination for those seeking tranquility and adventure.
Yao Li’s river rafting is located next to the Meiling Scenic Area, in the Meiling Gorge. The clear and swift waters originate from the Wuhua Mountain range. The rafting course spans approximately 2.5 kilometers, winding through twisting riverbanks with thrilling rapids. This engaging blend of excitement and serenity makes it an ideal spot for modern urban dwellers seeking an exhilarating rafting experience.
Related Details:
- Yao Li cuisine is a unique folk culinary style that relies on local specialty products, gaining considerable recognition within Jiangxi Province. Famous dishes and snacks include dried pickled vegetable and pork (干腌菜窖肉), wet pickled vegetable and fish head (湿腌菜鱼头), jī tofu (黄备煮豆腐), wet pickled vegetable stir-fried gray soup cake (湿腌菜炒灰汤饼), stir-fried bamboo shoots with jī (冬笋炒黄备), bitter tofu (苦楮豆腐), kangzi (康糍), pearl rice cake (珍珠米果), Qingming bao (清明包), youci (油糍), and rice cake (大米饼).
- Yao Li is an important tea-producing area in Fuliang County, with a long history of tea cultivation. It has traditionally been one of the primary sources of tribute tea for royal consumption. The tea produced here is characterized by its fragrant, lasting aroma and sweet, mellow taste. The leaves are slender and uniform, covered in fine white hairs, and exhibit a silvery sheen with a hint of green. Yao Li red tea is recognized as one of the world’s three top fragrant teas, making it a perfect gift or personal indulgence for visitors. Tourists can purchase this locally produced red tea to enjoy its unique flavor or give it as a thoughtful gift.
Complete 2-Day Itinerary for Jingdezhen
Day 1: Exploring Jingdezhen’s Ceramic Heritage and Culinary Delights
1. Ceramic Museum (陶瓷博物馆)
- Entrance Fee: Free
- Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Closed on Mondays)
- Tips: Book tickets 4-5 days in advance through the “Changyou Jingdezhen” WeChat mini-program for fast access. Head straight to the 6th floor to see the stunning “Silent Buddha” exhibit.
- Distance to Next Stop: 4.7 km (18 minutes by taxi)
The Jingdezhen Ceramic Museum is a must-visit for anyone interested in learning about the city’s rich ceramic history. Explore an impressive collection of porcelain artifacts and witness the evolution of ceramic production techniques through centuries.
2. Tao Yang Li Scenic Area & Imperial Kiln Museum (陶阳里景区 & 御窑博物馆)
- Entrance Fee: ¥53 per person
- Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 9:30 PM (Closed on Mondays)
- Tips: Purchase tickets for the Imperial Kiln Museum (御窑博物馆) in advance via the “Changyou Jingdezhen 畅游景德镇” app. After 8:30 PM, entry to the museum is free.
- Distance to Next Stop: 300 meters (5 minutes on foot)
The Tao Yang Li Scenic Area is home to ancient kilns and beautiful traditional architecture. The Imperial Kiln Museum inside is a highlight, offering an in-depth look at the region’s imperial porcelain production. This area gives you a firsthand glimpse into the heritage of porcelain craftsmanship that has made Jingdezhen famous worldwide.
3. Fuzhou Alley (抚州弄)
- Entrance Fee: Free
- Opening Hours: Open all day
- Tips: This bustling food street is famous for its local snacks. Don’t miss the You Tiao (fried dough), Fan Shi Beef Bone Soup (樊氏牛骨粉), and other popular eateries like Hui Jia Chi Fan (回家吃饭) and Xun Wei San Bao (寻味三宝). Choose a place with a shorter wait to save time.
- Distance to Next Stop: 5 km (20 minutes by taxi)
For a taste of Jingdezhen’s vibrant food culture, Fuzhou Alley is the place to be. From savory street food to traditional local dishes, this food street will leave you satisfied. Make sure to try local specialties for an authentic culinary experience.
4. Tao Yang New Village Night Market (陶阳新村夜市)
- Entrance Fee: Free
- Opening Hours: 6:00 PM – 11:00 PM
- Tips: The night market is large, with stalls selling porcelain trinkets, handmade jewelry, and souvenirs. Start shopping before 10:00 PM to avoid crowds, and don’t forget to bargain at less busy stalls to get the best deals.
The Tao Yang New Village Night Market is a great spot to end your day in Jingdezhen. It’s not only a place to buy porcelain and local crafts but also a lively hub for food lovers and souvenir hunters.
Day 2: Discover More Ceramic Art and Explore Local Villages
1. Sculpture Porcelain Factory (雕塑瓷厂)
- Entrance Fee: Free
- Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Tips: The Sculpture Porcelain Factory is filled with many art studios and unique galleries. Be sure to check out places like Mei Yan Suo (每盐所) and Lan Wu Café (蓝兀咖啡), and enjoy the picturesque surroundings perfect for photography.
- Distance to Next Stop: 3.4 km (15 minutes by taxi)
The Sculpture Porcelain Factory showcases the creativity of modern ceramic artists. If you love photography, this spot is filled with inspiring scenes of sculptures, murals, and avant-garde porcelain designs.
2. San Bao Village (三宝村)
- Entrance Fee: Free
- Opening Hours: Open all day
- Route Suggestion:
- 9494 Aesthetic Space (for an iconic bakery experience)
- Xun Wei San Bao (famous for its must-try local dishes)
- San Bao Ceramic Valley Art Museum (featuring a unique art café and outdoor courtyard for photos)
- Jingdezhen Wall (perfect for a quick photo session while waiting in line)
- San Bao Art Village (with its serene coffee shops and beautiful courtyards for picture-perfect moments)
San Bao Village is a delightful, artistic community within Jingdezhen that offers a mix of culture, food, and creativity. Renting an electric scooter for ¥30 is a great way to navigate the large village more easily, especially in the early morning when crowds are thinner.
Tips: Arrive early (around 7:00-8:00 AM) to avoid heavy traffic and long queues. The village offers a variety of unique art galleries, charming cafés, and exquisite ceramic art pieces that reflect the city’s modern creative scene.
Travel Information about Jingdezhen
Food Options
The local cuisine of Jingdezhen belongs to Jiangxi cuisine, characterized by its rich flavors, heavy oil, and a preference for chili peppers. The city offers a variety of snacks, particularly in the form of noodles, with different preparation methods. Some famous snacks include alkaline rice cakes (碱水粑), deep-fried wontons (油炸馄饨), steamed pork with rice flour (粉蒸肉), porcelain clay chicken (瓷泥煨鸡), Jingdezhen-style chicken (景德板鸡), whale fish with bean sprouts (鲸鱼煮豆冲), cold noodles (冷粉), chili cakes (辣椒粑), dumpling tarts (饺子耙), and bitter bamboo tofu (苦楮豆腐).
Specialty snack shops like Mao Zai (毛仔) serve cold noodles, alkaline rice cakes, and fried wontons, while Lao Ba Soup Shop (老八汤店) is known for its alkaline rice cakes. Additionally, the Little Yellow Fish shop (小黄鱼店) offers steamed pork and spicy dishes, all representing authentic Jingdezhen cuisine.
Shopping and Souvenirs
Jingdezhen is known for its specialty products, including tea and ceramic items, which can be found in the ancient streets and the China Ceramic City. The ancient street, located in the Zhushan District of Jingdezhen, features traditional architecture and is a great place for leisure and shopping.
China Ceramic City is situated in the Changjiang District of Jingdezhen and is the largest professional ceramic market in the country, showcasing exquisite ceramic products from various regions. The Sculpture Porcelain Factory Creative Market, located on Xinchang East Road, holds a market every Saturday morning, where visitors can explore unique ceramic shops like Lan Yin Zi (蓝印子) and Fei Niao Ji (飞鸟集) to find their favorite ceramic items.
Accommodation Options
City Center
- Overview: The city center is the most convenient area for tourists, offering easy access to transportation, shopping, and dining options.
- Nearby Attractions: Popular attractions such as People’s Square (人民广场) and the Imperial Kiln Factory (御窑厂) are located here, making it a prime spot for sightseeing.
- Recommended Hotels:
- Jinghan Hotel (景瀚大酒店): Known for its spacious and luxurious rooms with excellent service, this hotel offers breathtaking views of the city. The restaurant on the top floor features a rotating dining area with a 360-degree view of the Zhu Mountain (珠山), making it an ideal spot for enjoying a meal with a scenic backdrop.
Tao Xi Chuan Area
- Overview: The Tao Xi Chuan area is renowned for its vibrant artsy atmosphere, with many ceramic boutiques, specialty stores, and cozy coffee shops. It’s the perfect place for those looking to experience Jingdezhen’s creative side.
- Nearby Attractions: The Tao Xi Chuan Creative Park (陶溪川创意园区) and Sanbao Ceramic Village (三宝陶艺村) are nearby, both offering unique insights into the city’s ceramic heritage.
- Recommended Hotels:
- Tao Xi Chuan Guomao Hotel (陶溪川国贸饭店): This hotel preserves its industrial-style architecture while incorporating modern design elements. It offers high-quality dining services and versatile meeting facilities, making it ideal for both business and leisure stays.
- Vienna Hotel (Jingdezhen Tao Xi Chuan Branch) (维也纳酒店（景德镇陶溪川店）): Located in the heart of the area, this hotel offers convenient transportation links and a variety of room types. It also features a Chinese restaurant and a café to cater to all dining needs.
- Plaza Hotel Jingdezhen (Tao Xi Chuan Creative Plaza) (景德镇铂格酒店（陶溪川创意广场店）): With high ratings for breakfast and excellent front desk service, this hotel is a favorite among visitors seeking a comfortable and stylish stay.
Ancient Kiln Folk Museum / Ceramic Museum Area
- Overview: This area is perfect for ceramic culture enthusiasts, as it’s located close to the Ancient Kiln Folk Museum (古窑民俗博览区) and the Ceramic Museum (陶瓷博物馆).
- Recommended Hotels:
- Xishanhu Kailai Resort Hotel (西山湖凯莱度假酒店): This fully-equipped resort offers various leisure activities and is perfect for family vacations or business conferences. Its tranquil setting also makes it a relaxing getaway.
- Jingdezhen Changnan Hilton Garden Inn (景德镇昌南希尔顿惠庭酒店): Just a short distance from the city center, this hotel features great facilities and a warm welcome from the front desk staff, making it a popular choice for both business and leisure travelers.
- Marriott Yunsha Hotel (Jingdezhen Gufang Branch) (万豪云舍酒店（景德镇古窑店）): With excellent amenities and a friendly staff, this hotel is known for its comfortable rooms and soundproofed environments, providing a peaceful retreat.
Types of Accommodation in Jingdezhen
Luxury Hotels: Jingdezhen offers a variety of high-end hotels for those seeking comfort and luxury. The Jinghan Hotel (景瀚大酒店) and Tao Xi Chuan Guomao Hotel (陶溪川国贸饭店) provide top-tier facilities, elegant room designs, and exceptional service. These hotels cater to both leisure tourists and business travelers, offering modern amenities and a range of dining options.
Economy Hotels: For travelers on a budget, there are several affordable yet comfortable hotels in Jingdezhen. The Vienna Hotel (Jingdezhen People’s Square Branch) (维也纳酒店（景德镇人民广场店）) and Wenyuan Grand Hotel (文苑大酒店) are both great choices for those who want quality accommodations without breaking the bank. These hotels provide excellent value for money, with clean rooms, convenient locations, and affordable pricing.
Unique Guesthouses: For a more authentic and culturally immersive experience, you may want to consider staying in a guesthouse or boutique accommodation. Guesthouses like Longfengge Guesthouse (龙凤阁民宿) and Nature & Vessel Guesthouse (自然和器民宿) offer unique stays with rich cultural experiences. Located near scenic spots or rural areas, these accommodations provide a peaceful atmosphere surrounded by natural beauty, ideal for those who enjoy a rural escape and traditional village life.