This popular tourist city in Jiangxi, China owes its popularity to British colonials who established a summer hill station here. The local highlight is European villa-style architecture.
Shortly after the colonial powers withdrew, Lushan gained prominence as an important hub of the Communist Party. Visitors today can enjoy the city both for its historic appeal and for the relief it provides from the summertime heat of the Yangtze River basin.
Construction on most of the villas was completed by the end of the 19th century, though a few more crept in the next few years to follow. The surrounding mountainsides have plenty to offer tourists as well, including waterfalls, caves and hot springs. Hikers have plenty to explore in Lushan.
Getting There & Away
Most tourists arrive via Nanchang by bus (1 hour, 30 minutes). In fact, this route is so well traveled that it’s wise to purchase your return ticket together with your departure. This is especially important for those on a daytrip. The airport north of Nanchang runs frequent connections to Shanghai (1 hour), Hong Kong (1 hour, 30 minutes) and Beijing (2 hours).
Things to Do
Lushan Attractions
- Colonial Villas
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The classic european-style villas in lushan were built in the late 1800s and still exude old-world nostalgia.
- Poyang Lake
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This beautiful lake reflects the mountains and is cloaked in mist during the winter months. it is the perfect setting to watch the sunset.
- Botanical Gardens
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European influence in lushan is also evident in the town’s botanical gardens, which have been cultivated and maintained in a specifically western style.
Side trips from Lushan
- Natural attractions
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Outside of the town proper is an assortment of natural attractions including hot springs, caves and beautiful valleys.