Revolutionary Holy Land – Jinggangshan

Jinggangshan is renowned for its unique combination of "red revolutionary culture" and "green natural scenery," hailed as the "Cradle of the Chinese Revolution." This guide will help you fully experience the charm of this "Number One Mountain Under Heaven."

🏞️ Jinggangshan Travel Guide: Red Cradle and Green Wonderland

✨ Highlights

· Fusion of revolutionary sites and natural wonders: Relive revolutionary times at Huangyangjie, feel the majestic nature at Longtan Waterfalls.
· Unique cuisine and Hakka culture: Taste red rice and pumpkin soup, experience distinctive Hakka folk customs.

🗓️ Two-Day Essential Tour

Day 1: Red History and Natural Wonders

· Morning: Depart from Ciping Town to Huangyangjie (sunrise viewing available), visit the outpost fortifications and Red Army barracks, then head to Comrade Mao Zedong’s former residence at Dajing to see the Reading Stone, the Magical Tree, and other historical relics.
· Afternoon: Explore the Longtan Waterfall group, featuring five major waterfalls and deep pools; non-slip shoes are recommended.
· Evening: Return to Ciping Town, stroll through Tianjie Night Market, and enjoy local farmhouse dishes; recommended are red rice and pumpkin soup, typical Red Army meals, costing about 50 RMB per person.

Day 2: Revolutionary Memorials and Unique Experiences

· Morning: Visit the Jinggangshan Revolutionary Museum (free admission, open 8:30 AM–5:00 PM), then pay respects at the Jinggangshan Revolutionary Martyrs Cemetery.
· Afternoon: Tour the Xiaojing Red Army Hospital, then proceed to Shuikou Rainbow Waterfall, where you might witness the spectacular waterfall rainbow at certain times.
· Evening: Experience Hakka folk culture and sample Hakka specialty teas and dishes.

🗺️ Three-Day In-Depth Tour

If you have three days, you can add the following to the two-day itinerary:

Day 3: Historical Sites and Natural Beauty

· Morning: Visit Maoping Octagonal Building (where Mao Zedong wrote "The Struggle in Jinggangshan," advance reservation required).
· Afternoon: Take a cable car to explore Bijia Mountain and enjoy the "Ten-Mile Azalea Corridor" (best in spring), or visit Wuzhi Peak (featured on the fourth series 100 RMB banknote).

Special Local Foods:
· Red Rice: The staple food during the revolution, now often served with farmhouse cured meat.
· Pumpkin Soup: Sweet but not greasy, evoking revolutionary memories.
· Jinggangshan Smoked Bamboo Shoots: A local mountain delicacy with a unique taste.
· Red Rice Wine: A specialty from the revolutionary old area, mild alcohol content with a rich flavor.

Accommodation Recommendations:

· Ciping Town is the most convenient, offering hotels of various standards.
· For a revolutionary atmosphere, stay in a unique guesthouse converted from a Red Army camp.

Best Time to Visit:

· Each season offers different scenery; peak season is from May to October.
· Enjoy azaleas in spring, cool weather in summer, maple leaves in autumn, and snow scenes in winter.

Practical Tips:

1. Temperature varies greatly on the mountain; bring a jacket even in summer.
2. Some trails are steep; comfortable sports shoes are recommended.
3. Respect revolutionary sites; avoid loud noises in visiting areas.

Jinggangshan not only boasts rich historical and cultural heritage but also stunning natural landscapes. Whether you are interested in history or love nature, this place will meet your expectations.