📜 Introduction.

Nanchang, the Star of Jiangxi Province, was not on my initial itinerary of 1 Month in China.

This is how it went. Years ago, during my first backpacking trip in Asia, I met Margaret, a Chinese girl named Margaret at my hostel in Kuala Lumpur. We exchanged contacts, and as soon as she saw I was travelling in China, she invited me to visit her hometown.

It was a pleasant surprise, as I could experience the city from a local’s point of view, meet her family, and enjoy some company.

Although Nanchang is the capital of this province, it is not very popular among international tourists. So, if you want to visit a more authentic Chinese city, Nanchang, the Star of Jiangxi Province is the right destination.

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Day 1: Family Evening.

On my first day in Nanchang, I felt very lucky when Margaret and her dad met me at the train station with warm smiles. We headed to a nearby mall where I couldn’t resist grabbing a delicious ice cream, and then we strolled to Fishtail Sponge Park to enjoy a walk at sunset. As evening fell, we joined Margaret’s mum for dinner at a cozy local restaurant. The table was filled with amazing dishes: crayfish, meat skewers, vegetables, and flaky onion pancakes. Their home was so welcoming, and sharing that meal made me feel part of the family. Afterward, we walked over to the Tengwang Pavilion, perched above the river, where the city looked magical under the evening lights.

💡 Suggested Programme.

• h 15.00 – Arrival at Nanchang
• h 16.00 – Explore the Fishtail Sponge Park
• h 20.00 – Dinner at a local restaurant
• h 21.30 – Night visit at Tengwang Pavilion

Day 2: the Star of Nanchang

The next morning, I set out on foot, just me and went straight to the Star of Nanchang, China’s tallest Ferris wheel and the fourth tallest in the world. As I sat in the slowly turning cabin, the city stretched out beneath me. When my ride ended, I caught the train to Shangrao, to reach my next destination: Wangxian Valley.

💡 Suggested Programme.

• h 09.00 – Ferris Wheel Ride at Star of Nanchang
• h 11.30 – Day visit at Tengwang Pavilion
• h 13.00 – Lunch
• h 14.00 – Visit the Jiangxi Museum
• h 16.00 – Visit the Nanchang Library

🛏️ Where to Stay in Nanchang.

I stayed with Margaret’s family, so I didn’t book a hotel on my own. However, prices in Nanchang are very affordable, and you can find comfortable hotels with private bathrooms and breakfast included.

I suggest staying at Country Inn & Suites by Radisson (around €25 per night), as it is located in the city centre near the main attractions.

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🍜 What to Eat in Nanchang.

Everything I ate in Nanchang was absolutely delicious. My favorite dishes were crayfish smothered in a mountain of chopped garlic, butter, chili, and herbs (蒜蓉小龙虾) and fried onion pancakes (葱油饼), perfectly crispy on the outside and soft on the inside.

🎫 Where to Buy Tickets.

I only purchased the ticket for the Ferris Wheel at the entrance. Price is ¥50 (around €6) for a 30-minute ride.

The Tengwang Pavilion daytime ticket costs ¥50. Night tickets vary between ¥30 and ¥150 depending on the experience you choose.

💡 Travel Tips.

The Tengwang Pavilion is free to enter after 9 PM. However, with the free entrance at night, you can only access the scenic area and not climb the tower. I recommend visiting for free at night and then exploring the pavilion and the tower the next morning to avoid crowds.

🎈 Conclusion.

Nanchang may not be the most famous city in China, but it surprised me at every turn. From riding the Star of Nanchang and wandering peaceful streets in the morning, to enjoying delicious local dishes with a welcoming family, the city offered an authentic and unforgettable experience.

Whether you’re seeking history, culture, or simply a relaxing getaway, Nanchang, the Star of Jiangxi Province, is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. Pack your bags: this city might just steal your heart!

💬 And you? Have you ever heard of Nanchang, the Star of Jiangxi Province?

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