Happy TravellerLocated in northwest Jiangxi Province, Jiujiang is a city steeped in history and culture. Its name literally means ‘nine rivers,’ as nine rivers converge in this region. Jiujiang is the second-largest prefecture-level city in Jiangxi province and is the only international trade port city in the province. It is also the gateway to the Yangtze River, the longest river in China. Here is a guide to help you discover the best of Jiujiang.
History
Jiujiang has a rich history that dates back to ancient times. During the Xia to the Shang dynasty, the capitals of several states were located in this area. In the Spring and Autumn period, Jiujiang bordered between the states of Wu and Chu. Tao Yuanming, a famous Chinese philosopher, once lived at the base of Mountain Lu, and in the 13th century, Zhu Xi was a Confucian philosopher who practiced at the White Deer Grotto Academy.
British Concession and European Settlement History
After Jiujiang became an open treaty port in 1862, it exported Jiangxi’s vast rice crop. Jiujiang was one of the three centers of the tea trade in China, along with Hankou and Fuzhou. The New York Methodist Mission Society’s superintendent, Virgil C. Hart, arrived in Kiukiang in 1866 and built the city’s first Methodist church and Western hospital. In 1927, the British surrendered their concession after being robbed, and Jiujiang’s export trade was siphoned off with the connecting of Nanchang to coastal rail lines built in 1936-37.
Things to Do
One of the most popular attractions in Jiujiang is Lushan Mountain, located in Lushan City. This scenic area is known for its breathtaking natural beauty and has served as a retreat for emperors, poets, and scholars throughout history. The mountain features more than 90 peaks, 18 scenic spots, and over 500 streams and waterfalls. Visitors can take a cable car to the top for stunning panoramic views.
Another must-visit attraction in Jiujiang is the Jiujiang Yangtze River Bridge. This bridge connects Jiujiang to Huangshi in Hubei Province, and it is the first double-decker bridge over the Yangtze River. Visitors can take a stroll on the bridge and enjoy the scenic views of the river and surrounding areas.
Jiujiang is known for its beautiful natural surroundings, and Poyang Lake is no exception. This freshwater lake is the largest in China and is home to many rare and endangered species of birds. Visitors can take a boat tour and enjoy the scenic views of the lake and its surroundings.
Food and Drink
Jiujiang is known for its local cuisine, and one of the most famous dishes is Gan Guo. This spicy dish is made with thinly sliced beef or lamb, tofu, and vegetables, cooked in a spicy broth. Another popular local dish is Jingdezhen tofu pudding. This savory dish is made with tofu and is served in a hot and sour broth.
Nightlife
Jiujiang has a vibrant nightlife scene, with many bars, clubs, and karaoke bars to choose from. One of the most popular spots is the Lushan Theater, which features nightly performances of traditional Chinese music and dance.
Accommodations
There are many accommodation options in Jiujiang, including hotels, hostels, and guesthouses. Some of the most popular hotels include the Wanda Realm Jiujiang, the Ramada Plaza Jiujiang, and the Xana Hotelle Jiujiang Lushan.
