Lushan Mountain, located in Jiujiang City, Jiangxi Province, is one of China’s most celebrated natural and cultural landmarks. Renowned for its misty peaks, cascading waterfalls, and historical significance, Lushan has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1996. Often called the “Cool Summer Retreat,” it has inspired poets, scholars, and leaders for centuries, including its role as a key political meeting site in modern Chinese history. This travel guide will help you plan a memorable visit to this scenic wonder.
A Travel Guide to Lushan Mountain
Why Visit Lushan Mountain?
Lushan Mountain offers a captivating blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage. Its lush forests, dramatic cliffs, and cloud-shrouded peaks create a mystical atmosphere, while attractions like the Five Old Men Peaks, Dragon Head Cliff, and Lulin Lake showcase its diverse landscapes. The mountain is also home to historic villas, temples, and sites tied to China’s political history, such as the Lushan Conference Site. Whether you’re a hiker, history buff, or seeking a serene escape, Lushan delivers an unforgettable experience.
How to Get There
Lushan Mountain is accessible from Jiujiang City, approximately 36 kilometers away, with good connections to major Chinese cities.
By Air: Fly to Jiujiang Lushan Airport (JIU) or Nanchang Changbei International Airport (KHN, 120 km away). From Nanchang, take a high-speed train (40 minutes, ¥30–50) or bus (2 hours, ¥40) to Jiujiang. Flights from Beijing, Shanghai, or Guangzhou to Nanchang take 2–3 hours, with fares starting at ¥500 if booked early.
By Train: Jiujiang Railway Station connects to major cities via high-speed trains. From Beijing (6–7 hours, ¥400–600), Shanghai (4–5 hours, ¥250–400), or Nanchang (40 minutes, ¥30–50). From Jiujiang, take a taxi or shuttle bus to Lushan’s Guling Town (40 minutes, ¥50–80).
By Bus: Direct buses from Jiujiang Bus Station to Lushan run frequently (1 hour, ¥15–20). Long-distance buses from Nanchang or Wuhan (3–4 hours, ¥60–100) are also available. Within Lushan, shuttle buses connect major attractions (¥80 for a 7-day pass).
By Car/Taxi: Rent a car or take a taxi from Jiujiang to Lushan’s entrance (¥80–120). Parking is available near Guling Town and key sites.
Tip: Guling Town, at the heart of Lushan, is the main hub for accommodations and attractions. Enter via the North or South Gate, with the North Gate being closer to Jiujiang.
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March–May): Mild weather (15–25°C) and blooming azaleas make spring ideal for hiking and photography. The Lushan Flower Festival in April showcases vibrant flora. Summer (June–August): Lushan’s cool climate (20–28°C) offers relief from China’s summer heat, earning its nickname as a summer retreat. Expect occasional rain, so bring an umbrella.
Autumn (September–November): Crisp air (10–20°C) and colorful foliage create stunning vistas, especially around the Five Old Men Peaks. Winter (December–February): Snow-draped peaks offer a quiet, serene experience, though some trails may be icy. Temperatures can drop to 0°C.
Crowd Tip: Avoid Chinese holidays like National Day (October 1–7) and Labor Day (May 1–5) to escape crowds. Weekdays are less busy than weekends.
Tickets and Opening Hours
Opening Hours: Most attractions are open from 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM year-round, though some indoor sites (e.g., museums) close at 5:00 PM.
Ticket Prices: General admission: ¥180 (covers main scenic areas, valid for 7 days). Specific sites (e.g., Lushan Conference Site, Botanical Garden): ¥20–50 each, or included in combo tickets. Discounts: Students and seniors (60+) pay half-price with valid ID; children under 1.2 meters enter free. Shuttle Bus: ¥80 for a 7-day pass, highly recommended for covering the 400-square-kilometer park.
Booking: Purchase tickets at the North or South Gate ticket offices or online via platforms like Ctrip or WeChat. Book in advance during peak seasons.
What to See and Do
Lushan Mountain is divided into eastern and western sections, with Guling Town as the central hub. Here are the must-visit attractions:
Natural Wonders: Five Old Men Peaks: A series of rugged peaks offering panoramic views. The hike (2–3 hours) is moderately challenging but rewarding, with misty vistas resembling traditional Chinese paintings. Dragon Head Cliff (Longshou Cliff): A dramatic lookout point surrounded by steep drops and swirling clouds, perfect for sunrise views. Three-Step Waterfall (Sandiequan): One of China’s most famous waterfalls, cascading 155 meters in three tiers. The trail involves steep steps, so wear sturdy shoes. Lulin Lake: A tranquil alpine lake surrounded by pines, ideal for a leisurely walk or boating (¥30–50).
Cultural and Historical Sites: Lushan Conference Site: The historic venue of the 1959 and 1970 Communist Party meetings, now a museum showcasing Mao Zedong’s era. Entry: ¥50. Meilu Villa: A beautifully preserved residence used by Chiang Kai-shek and Song Meiling, reflecting Lushan’s role as a 20th-century elite retreat. Entry: ¥30. Donglin Temple: A 4th-century Buddhist temple at the mountain’s base, known for its serene architecture and spiritual significance. Entry: ¥10. Lushan Botanical Garden: One of China’s oldest botanical gardens, home to 3,400 plant species, including rare rhododendrons. Entry: ¥40.
Outdoor Activities: Hiking: Trails range from easy (e.g., Lulin Lake loop, 1 hour) to strenuous (e.g., Five Old Men Peaks, 4–5 hours). Maps are available at ticket offices. Photography: Lushan’s misty landscapes and historic villas are a photographer’s dream. Early mornings offer the best light and fewer crowds. Cable Car: A cable car near Hanpokou offers stunning views of Poyang Lake and the peaks (¥70 round-trip).
Where to Eat
In Guling Town: This charming town has restaurants serving Jiangxi cuisine, such as spicy noodles, braised pork, and bamboo shoots. Popular spots include Lushan Restaurant (average ¥50–100 per person) and street vendors for snacks like tea eggs (¥2–5).
At Attractions: Basic food stalls near major sites offer noodles, dumplings, and drinks (¥10–30). Options are limited, so consider packing snacks.
Nearby Jiujiang: For more variety, dine in Jiujiang City, where you’ll find Chinese, Western, and fast-food options like KFC (¥30–60 per meal).
Tip: Bring water and portable snacks, especially for long hikes, as food options are sparse on trails.
Where to Stay
Staying in Guling Town is the most convenient option, with accommodations ranging from budget to luxury:
Luxury: Lushan Villa Hotel: A historic hotel with modern amenities, starting at ¥600/night. Jinxiufu Hotel: Offers mountain views and comfort, around ¥500–800/night.
Mid-Range: Lushan International Hotel: Clean and central, ¥200–400/night. Guling Guesthouses: Cozy options with local charm, ¥150–300/night.
Budget: Hostels and family-run inns in Guling Town start at ¥80–150/night. Book via Ctrip or Booking.com.
Jiujiang Alternative: If staying in Jiujiang, hotels like Holiday Inn Jiujiang (¥300–500/night) or budget chains like 7 Days Inn (¥100–200/night) are 40 minutes away.
Booking Tip: Reserve accommodations 2–3 weeks in advance during summer and autumn to secure good rates and availability.
Tips for a Great Visit
Dress for the Weather: Lushan’s high altitude means cooler temperatures, even in summer. Bring layers, a raincoat, and comfortable hiking shoes. Plan Your Route: The park is vast, so prioritize attractions based on your interests (e.g., nature vs. history). A 2-day visit allows you to cover both eastern and western sections.
Respect Nature: Stick to marked trails to protect Lushan’s fragile ecosystem, and avoid littering. Cash and Apps: Some vendors only accept cash or WeChat/Alipay, so carry ¥100–200 in small bills.
Combine Your Trip: Pair Lushan with nearby attractions like Poyang Lake (China’s largest freshwater lake, 1 hour away) or Jingdezhen (the porcelain capital, 2 hours away).
Final Thoughts
Lushan Mountain is a treasure of natural splendor and cultural depth, offering something for every traveler. From hiking misty peaks to exploring historic villas, the mountain’s serene beauty and rich history create a truly immersive experience. Plan your visit around the seasons, pack for adventure, and let Lushan’s timeless charm captivate you. Whether you’re chasing waterfalls or retracing China’s past, this UNESCO gem promises memories to last a lifetime.
Happy travels!
