The following schools, colleges, institutes and universities in Nanchang employ foreign teachers or accept overseas students;
Nanchang University
Nanchang Institute of Technology
Jiangxi University of Science and Technology
East China Jiaotong University
Jiangxi Agricultural University
Jiangxi Bluesky University
Jiangxi Normal University
Jiangxi University of Finance & Economics
Nanchang Hangkong University
Monday, 27 April 2009
Monday, 20 April 2009
Xinyu
Xinyu is in central Jiangxi.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Xinyu
Attractions in and around Xinyu include;
Fairy Maiden Lake scenic area is located 16 kilometers southwest of Jiangxi 's Xinyu City. The area covers a total of 179 square kilometers, 50 of which are water, and has three major scenic spots. In the east is the Wulong Lake scenic area which contains more than 100 scenic islands as well as reservoirs, dozens of harbors, and cultivated forests. In the middle is the Zhongshan Gorge scenic area with steep mountains and a strong current. The western region has the Chu Yang scenic area.
Baoshi Park is situated at the west end of Jianshe Road in Xinyu City. The park was built in honor of the master of traditional Chinese Painting Baoshi and the design and layout of the park strives to embody the artistic style of Fu Baoshi. Inside the park visitors can find the Fu Baoshi Exhibition Hall, East Gate, South Gate, Erxiang Pavilion, Qinfeng Building, Zuibi Building, Baoshi Lake, Jianshi Pass, Sanxiao Bridge and Hongyu Bridge.
Zhushan Cave Tourist Area is situated in Dongkou Village, Mabu Town. The scenic area includes Zhushan Cave, Zhushan Cave Forest Park and Shihu Holiday Village. Zhushan Cave is a carst cavern and is one of the longest water tunnels in Jiangxi.
Hongyang Cave, located at the side of the Seventh Peak of Yuanling Mountain, got its name because Ge Hong, one of founders of Taoism, and Louyang of the Jin dynasty cultivated their spiritual and religious lives here. It is also called Yan Song Cave because the Ming dynasty scholar studied in this cave.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Xinyu
Attractions in and around Xinyu include;
Fairy Maiden Lake scenic area is located 16 kilometers southwest of Jiangxi 's Xinyu City. The area covers a total of 179 square kilometers, 50 of which are water, and has three major scenic spots. In the east is the Wulong Lake scenic area which contains more than 100 scenic islands as well as reservoirs, dozens of harbors, and cultivated forests. In the middle is the Zhongshan Gorge scenic area with steep mountains and a strong current. The western region has the Chu Yang scenic area.
Baoshi Park is situated at the west end of Jianshe Road in Xinyu City. The park was built in honor of the master of traditional Chinese Painting Baoshi and the design and layout of the park strives to embody the artistic style of Fu Baoshi. Inside the park visitors can find the Fu Baoshi Exhibition Hall, East Gate, South Gate, Erxiang Pavilion, Qinfeng Building, Zuibi Building, Baoshi Lake, Jianshi Pass, Sanxiao Bridge and Hongyu Bridge.
Zhushan Cave Tourist Area is situated in Dongkou Village, Mabu Town. The scenic area includes Zhushan Cave, Zhushan Cave Forest Park and Shihu Holiday Village. Zhushan Cave is a carst cavern and is one of the longest water tunnels in Jiangxi.
Hongyang Cave, located at the side of the Seventh Peak of Yuanling Mountain, got its name because Ge Hong, one of founders of Taoism, and Louyang of the Jin dynasty cultivated their spiritual and religious lives here. It is also called Yan Song Cave because the Ming dynasty scholar studied in this cave.
Image; Fairy Lake
Yichun
Yichun is in western Jiangxi.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Yichun,_Jiangxi
http://www.yichun.gov.cn/English/index.html
Attractions in and around Yichun include;
Sanzhualun - Sanzhualun is a forest park in Jiangxi Province and national AAAA tourist area. the park is located in Jing’an County, near Yichun city. The total scenic area is 193 square kilometers and attractions include Kuangzhong Garden, Leijia Old Village, Baofeng Temple, Panlong Lake and Mazu Tower Pavilion.
The journey time from Nanchang to Jing'an is about 2 hours by bus. Both Nanchang Long-distance bus station and Hongcheng market bus station have buses to Jing'an. From Jing'an you can take another bus to the Sanzhualun Forest Center, the journey taking approximately one and a half hours.
Guanshan - Guanshan, situated in the northwest of Yifeng County, is the only national nature reserve in Yichun. Forest coverage reaches 87.8% and the area is home to 37 kinds of rare national protected endangered plants.
Zhuojiang Cavern - This cavern is located 23 kilometers north of Yichun City and is composed of over ten limestone caves with a total length of over 2,000 meters. A stretch of nearly 1 kilometer is developed for tourists.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Yichun,_Jiangxi
http://www.yichun.gov.cn/English/index.html
Attractions in and around Yichun include;
Sanzhualun - Sanzhualun is a forest park in Jiangxi Province and national AAAA tourist area. the park is located in Jing’an County, near Yichun city. The total scenic area is 193 square kilometers and attractions include Kuangzhong Garden, Leijia Old Village, Baofeng Temple, Panlong Lake and Mazu Tower Pavilion.
The journey time from Nanchang to Jing'an is about 2 hours by bus. Both Nanchang Long-distance bus station and Hongcheng market bus station have buses to Jing'an. From Jing'an you can take another bus to the Sanzhualun Forest Center, the journey taking approximately one and a half hours.
Guanshan - Guanshan, situated in the northwest of Yifeng County, is the only national nature reserve in Yichun. Forest coverage reaches 87.8% and the area is home to 37 kinds of rare national protected endangered plants.
Zhuojiang Cavern - This cavern is located 23 kilometers north of Yichun City and is composed of over ten limestone caves with a total length of over 2,000 meters. A stretch of nearly 1 kilometer is developed for tourists.
Image; Sanzhualun
Jiangxi Minorities
China recognises 56 ethnic groups (usually referred to in China as nationalities) among its population, with Han Chinese comprising a little over 90%. The population of Jiangxi is predominantly Han but the following groups are also present in the province;
She - The She people live primarily in the mountainous areas of Fujian and Zhejiang Provinces, and to a lesser extent in Jiangxi, Guangdong, and Anhui.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/She_people
Yao - The Yao people are mainly found in Hunan, Yunnan, Guangdong, Guizhou, and Jiangxi as well as the Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Prefecture.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Yao_people
Hui - The Hui nationality can be found in most major cities in China, including Nanchang and other big cities in Jiangxi
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hui_Chinese
Zhuang - The Zhuang are the second largest ethnic group in China and live mostly in the Guangxi Zhuang Autonomus Region. Smaller numbers also live in Yunnan, Guangdong, Guizhou, Hunan and Jiangxi.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Zhuang_people
Hakka - The Hakka are a subgroup of Han Chinese based mainly in the provinces of Guangdong, Fujian and Jiangxi.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hakka_people
Other useful links:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_ethnic_groups_in_China
http://www.cultural-china.com/
http://www.travelchinaguide.com/intro/nationality/56list.htm
She - The She people live primarily in the mountainous areas of Fujian and Zhejiang Provinces, and to a lesser extent in Jiangxi, Guangdong, and Anhui.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/She_people
Yao - The Yao people are mainly found in Hunan, Yunnan, Guangdong, Guizhou, and Jiangxi as well as the Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Prefecture.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Yao_people
Hui - The Hui nationality can be found in most major cities in China, including Nanchang and other big cities in Jiangxi
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hui_Chinese
Zhuang - The Zhuang are the second largest ethnic group in China and live mostly in the Guangxi Zhuang Autonomus Region. Smaller numbers also live in Yunnan, Guangdong, Guizhou, Hunan and Jiangxi.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Zhuang_people
Hakka - The Hakka are a subgroup of Han Chinese based mainly in the provinces of Guangdong, Fujian and Jiangxi.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hakka_people
Other useful links:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_ethnic_groups_in_China
http://www.cultural-china.com/
http://www.travelchinaguide.com/intro/nationality/56list.htm
Thursday, 16 April 2009
Ji'an
Ji'an is in western Jiangxi
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ji%27an
Attractions in and around Ji'an include;
The Wen Tianxiang Memorial is located in Wenshan Park, east of Ji’an County, which is the hometown of Wen Tianxiang. The memorial's buildings are in the Song dynasty style.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wen_Tianxiang
Qingyuan Mountain Scenic Spot is located in Hedong County and ranges over 10 kilometers. There are over 30 pools, springs, brooks and valleys and the major sights are Jingju Temple, Qizu Pagoda, Feilai Pagoda, Zuguan, Daiyue Bridge, Yingfeng Bridge, Long Pool, Hupao Spring, and Shijian Stone. Qingyuan Mountain is a holy shrine for Buddhism, and also used to be the forum of the Confucian School of Idealist philosophy during the Song and Ming dynasties.
The Ouyangxiu Memorial is located in Yonfeng City. The memorial contains a number of pavilions including Mingdao Pavilion, Zhiyong Pavilion, Drunkard Pavilion, Liuyi Pavilion, Zhixi Pavilion, and Longwangqianbiao Stele Pavilion.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ouyang_Xiu
Image; Wen Tianxiang Memorial Hall
Wednesday, 15 April 2009
Shangrao
Shangrao is located located in the north of Jiangxi Province
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shangrao
http://www1.zgsr.gov.cn/publicfiles/business/htmlfiles/zgsr/egblj/index.html
Attractions in and around Shangrao include;
Gexian Mountain, located in the middle of Qianshan County, is an offshoot of Mt. Wuyi. Celebrated Daoist Ge Xuan of the Jin dynasty was said to refine elixirs and preach on this mountain, so later generations called it Immortal Ge Mountain, which became a Daoist sacred place well known in Jiangxi, Fujian and Zhejiang.
Wuyuan is one of the most famous tourist attractions in Jiangxi and is well known throughout China, mainly for its well protected architecture from the Ming and Qing dynasties.
Dazhang Mountain is located on the boundary of Anhui and Jiangxi Province, in Wuyuan county. Wolong Gorge is 3 kilometers long and 730 meters high and contains numerous waterfalls including the second highest in China with a drop of 193 meters.
Jiangwan is located in a stream valley surrounded by three mountains, 20 kilometers east of Wuyuan County. The layout of Jiangwan is unique. There are six lanes in a street and everyone is special. If you climb Longshan Mountain and look down, the lanes in the center form a Chinese character meaning peaceful. The old streets in Jiangwan maintain the style of the Ming and Qing dynasties with narrow street fronts, old shops with wooden doors, old sales counters, and old storage racks.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shangrao
http://www1.zgsr.gov.cn/publicfiles/business/htmlfiles/zgsr/egblj/index.html
Attractions in and around Shangrao include;
Gexian Mountain, located in the middle of Qianshan County, is an offshoot of Mt. Wuyi. Celebrated Daoist Ge Xuan of the Jin dynasty was said to refine elixirs and preach on this mountain, so later generations called it Immortal Ge Mountain, which became a Daoist sacred place well known in Jiangxi, Fujian and Zhejiang.
Wuyuan is one of the most famous tourist attractions in Jiangxi and is well known throughout China, mainly for its well protected architecture from the Ming and Qing dynasties.
Dazhang Mountain is located on the boundary of Anhui and Jiangxi Province, in Wuyuan county. Wolong Gorge is 3 kilometers long and 730 meters high and contains numerous waterfalls including the second highest in China with a drop of 193 meters.
Jiangwan is located in a stream valley surrounded by three mountains, 20 kilometers east of Wuyuan County. The layout of Jiangwan is unique. There are six lanes in a street and everyone is special. If you climb Longshan Mountain and look down, the lanes in the center form a Chinese character meaning peaceful. The old streets in Jiangwan maintain the style of the Ming and Qing dynasties with narrow street fronts, old shops with wooden doors, old sales counters, and old storage racks.
Image of Wuyuan topren.net/travel/sights/wuyuan/index1.htm
Monday, 13 April 2009
Jingdezhen
Jingdezhen is in northeastern Jiangxi
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jingdezhen
http://lb.jdz.jiangxi.cn/eng/index.asp
Attractions in and around Jingdezhen include;
Jingdezhen Old Street is located in the center of Jingdezhen. The street is composed of three parts: Ming Street, Qing Street and the Old Pier. Ming Street was established in the Ming Dynasty (1271-1368) and is about 90 meters (about 295 feet) long and 3 meters (about 9.8 feet) wide. This arch-shaped street is paved with blue bricks, which are put together and arranged in the shape of turtle shells. The old buildings flanking the sides of the street are, like the rest of the street, very well preserved and have survived more than 600 years. Qing Street was established in the Qing Dynasty (1368-1644) and is much longer and wider than the Ming Street. It is 231 meters (about 758 feet) long and about 4 meters (about 13 feet) wide and is paved with long blue flagstones. The ruts on the stones were created by the old-fashioned wheelbarrows that were in common use in the past. This street was a very prosperous commercial area during the Qing Dynasty and the shops, teahouses and residences along side of the street are well preserved. The Old Pier is made up of three layers of blue stones. Since the Ming Dynasty it has been an important pier for ferries. From here the porcelain of Jingdezhen was transported to important homes across China and around the world. Located on this ancient pier is the Sanlumiao Temple that was established to memorialize the poet, Qu Yuan.
The Ceramic History Museum is located in Panlongshan in the western suburb of Jingdezhen. The museum has a collection of over 5,000 articles and items on display include ceramics from past dynasties, collections of paintings and calligraphy. Two gardens in the museum contain ancient kiln-workshops, ancient kilns, and ancient structures that were originally scattered throughout Jingdezhen City but have now been collected here. Near the Qing Garden are a group of kiln-workshops in which the ceramics are manufactured and visitors can watch the manufacturing process as well as experience the process themselves. The annual 'Jingdezhen National Ceramic Festival' begins on October 12th each year and lasts for one month.
Leping (near Jingdezhen) is the birthplace of Gan Opera, and there are 217 opera stages here, with some from the Ming and Qing dynasties, with many of them being well preserved. Location：Leping City, Jingdezhen City, Jiangxi Province.
The old Fuliang County was established during the Tang Dynasty in 817 A.D. and was once a center of politics, economy and culture due to the porcelain and tea industries in the area, two of the most important commodities in ancient China. The Red Pagoda, also known as The West Tower, stands on a hill at the western edge of the ruins of the ancient county town of Fuliang in present-day Jingdezhen. One of the most ancient Song Dynasty pagodas in Jiangxi it is known as the Red Pagoda because of the reddish color of the bricks it is built of. Originally constructed in 961AD, the six-sided pagoda has nine floors and reaches a height of almost 43 meters.
The Ancient County Government Office in Fuliang is the only well-preserved of its kind south of the Yangtze River. Built during the Qing Dynasty it exhibits the architecture and the regime and system of the Qing.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jingdezhen
http://lb.jdz.jiangxi.cn/eng/index.asp
Attractions in and around Jingdezhen include;
Jingdezhen Old Street is located in the center of Jingdezhen. The street is composed of three parts: Ming Street, Qing Street and the Old Pier. Ming Street was established in the Ming Dynasty (1271-1368) and is about 90 meters (about 295 feet) long and 3 meters (about 9.8 feet) wide. This arch-shaped street is paved with blue bricks, which are put together and arranged in the shape of turtle shells. The old buildings flanking the sides of the street are, like the rest of the street, very well preserved and have survived more than 600 years. Qing Street was established in the Qing Dynasty (1368-1644) and is much longer and wider than the Ming Street. It is 231 meters (about 758 feet) long and about 4 meters (about 13 feet) wide and is paved with long blue flagstones. The ruts on the stones were created by the old-fashioned wheelbarrows that were in common use in the past. This street was a very prosperous commercial area during the Qing Dynasty and the shops, teahouses and residences along side of the street are well preserved. The Old Pier is made up of three layers of blue stones. Since the Ming Dynasty it has been an important pier for ferries. From here the porcelain of Jingdezhen was transported to important homes across China and around the world. Located on this ancient pier is the Sanlumiao Temple that was established to memorialize the poet, Qu Yuan.
The Ceramic History Museum is located in Panlongshan in the western suburb of Jingdezhen. The museum has a collection of over 5,000 articles and items on display include ceramics from past dynasties, collections of paintings and calligraphy. Two gardens in the museum contain ancient kiln-workshops, ancient kilns, and ancient structures that were originally scattered throughout Jingdezhen City but have now been collected here. Near the Qing Garden are a group of kiln-workshops in which the ceramics are manufactured and visitors can watch the manufacturing process as well as experience the process themselves. The annual 'Jingdezhen National Ceramic Festival' begins on October 12th each year and lasts for one month.
Leping (near Jingdezhen) is the birthplace of Gan Opera, and there are 217 opera stages here, with some from the Ming and Qing dynasties, with many of them being well preserved. Location：Leping City, Jingdezhen City, Jiangxi Province.
The old Fuliang County was established during the Tang Dynasty in 817 A.D. and was once a center of politics, economy and culture due to the porcelain and tea industries in the area, two of the most important commodities in ancient China. The Red Pagoda, also known as The West Tower, stands on a hill at the western edge of the ruins of the ancient county town of Fuliang in present-day Jingdezhen. One of the most ancient Song Dynasty pagodas in Jiangxi it is known as the Red Pagoda because of the reddish color of the bricks it is built of. Originally constructed in 961AD, the six-sided pagoda has nine floors and reaches a height of almost 43 meters.
The Ancient County Government Office in Fuliang is the only well-preserved of its kind south of the Yangtze River. Built during the Qing Dynasty it exhibits the architecture and the regime and system of the Qing.
Image of Leping Ancient Stage
Jiujiang
Jiujiang is located located on the southern shores of the Yangtze River in northwest Jiangxi Province
Attractions in and around Jiujiang include;
Dragon Palace Cave (Long Gong Dong) is a national AAA lever scenic spot, located in Pengze County, Jiujiang City. The area has many attractions including Dragon Palace Cave, Yuhu Cave, Yuxian Cave, and Xianzhen Cliff including Longxian Temple which was built in 227 BC.
Stone Bell Hill (Shizhong Shan) is located in Shuangzhong Town, Hukou County on the confluence of the Yangtze River and the Poyang Lake, therefore the hill is surrounded by water on three sides and is joined to the mainland on the fourth. There is a legend that tells of the origin of Stone Bell Hill. One day, the Jade Emperor (the supreme deity of Daoism) wanted to build Lingxiao Palace in the Heaven, so he asked one god to carve two jade bells from the jade in Mt. Jiuhua. When the two bells were completed, the Jade Emperor asked another god, the one with great strength, to carry the bells up to the Heaven. When he was flying over the meeting point of the Poyang Lake and the Yangtze River with the two jade bells on his shoulders, he was distracted by the beautiful sceneries and forgot his mission. As a result, he dropped the two bells without knowing it. One bell landed on the side of the Poyang Lake, whilst the other landed on the side of the Yangtze River, giving us the Upper and Lower Stone Bell Hills.With a constant stream of visitors from different places for thousands of years, the Stone Bell Hill is famous for its singular prospects, a holy place for Confucian intellectuals, and a place of great strategic importance.
Many literary giants of ancient China have left more than 20 calligraphy masterpieces carved upon the stone. Some of the most precious works date as far back as the Tang dynasty (618 - 907). As a place of strategic importance, many historical events and battles occurred here, including the war between Zhu Yuanzhang (first emperor of the Ming dynasty (1368 - 1644)) and Chen Youliang, (a general of the late Yuan dynasty (1271 - 1368)), and the ten-year war fought between Zeng Guofan (a famous general of the Qing dynasty (1644 - 1911)), and Shi Dakai (a general of the Taiping Army).
Gantang Lake is a natural lake in the center of Jiujiang City. In the lake's center stands Yanshui Pavilion (Smoky Water Pavilion) connected by a crooked bridge to the bank. The Yanshui Pavilion is a series of buildings connected by corridors. From the pavilion you can see Mt.Lushan.
Dragon Palace Cave (Long Gong Dong) is a national AAA lever scenic spot, located in Pengze County, Jiujiang City. The area has many attractions including Dragon Palace Cave, Yuhu Cave, Yuxian Cave, and Xianzhen Cliff including Longxian Temple which was built in 227 BC.
Stone Bell Hill (Shizhong Shan) is located in Shuangzhong Town, Hukou County on the confluence of the Yangtze River and the Poyang Lake, therefore the hill is surrounded by water on three sides and is joined to the mainland on the fourth. There is a legend that tells of the origin of Stone Bell Hill. One day, the Jade Emperor (the supreme deity of Daoism) wanted to build Lingxiao Palace in the Heaven, so he asked one god to carve two jade bells from the jade in Mt. Jiuhua. When the two bells were completed, the Jade Emperor asked another god, the one with great strength, to carry the bells up to the Heaven. When he was flying over the meeting point of the Poyang Lake and the Yangtze River with the two jade bells on his shoulders, he was distracted by the beautiful sceneries and forgot his mission. As a result, he dropped the two bells without knowing it. One bell landed on the side of the Poyang Lake, whilst the other landed on the side of the Yangtze River, giving us the Upper and Lower Stone Bell Hills.With a constant stream of visitors from different places for thousands of years, the Stone Bell Hill is famous for its singular prospects, a holy place for Confucian intellectuals, and a place of great strategic importance.
Many literary giants of ancient China have left more than 20 calligraphy masterpieces carved upon the stone. Some of the most precious works date as far back as the Tang dynasty (618 - 907). As a place of strategic importance, many historical events and battles occurred here, including the war between Zhu Yuanzhang (first emperor of the Ming dynasty (1368 - 1644)) and Chen Youliang, (a general of the late Yuan dynasty (1271 - 1368)), and the ten-year war fought between Zeng Guofan (a famous general of the Qing dynasty (1644 - 1911)), and Shi Dakai (a general of the Taiping Army).
Gantang Lake is a natural lake in the center of Jiujiang City. In the lake's center stands Yanshui Pavilion (Smoky Water Pavilion) connected by a crooked bridge to the bank. The Yanshui Pavilion is a series of buildings connected by corridors. From the pavilion you can see Mt.Lushan.
Suojiang Tower, located on the banks of the Yangtze River in Jiujiang City, is the name given to a group of ancient buildings, including Suojiang Tower, Suojiang Pagoda (Wenfeng Pagoda), and four iron oxen guardians. The tower is regarded as the symbol of Jiujiang City. Suojiang Tower was first built in 1586 during the Ming Dynasty. It was built because the low-lying city of Jiujiang, surrounded on three sides by the Yangtze River, was vulnerable to flooding. Suojiang Tower has three stories and is surrounded by four iron oxen. A pagoda was built at a later point near Suojiang Tower - Suojiang Pagoda, also known as Wenfeng Pagoda. In 2004, the local government rebuilt and restored Suojiang Tower and Pagoda.
Donglin Monastery (East Forest Monastery) is seated at the northwestern foot of Mt. Lushan, about 16 km (10 miles) from Jiujiang City. It was initially built in 384 A.D. in the Eastern Jin Dynasty. The monastery was built by Huiyuan, a famous monk of his time, who was also the originator of the Pure Land Sect of Buddhism (also named Lotus Sect).
Nengren Temple, the largest historical structure in Jiujiang, is located in the centre of Jiujiang City. It was first built in the Southern Dynasty (420-589), though most of the present structures in this temple were repaired or built in the Qing Dynasty (1644-1911).
Image of Nengren Temple scenery.cultural-china.com/en/147S3133S9090.html
Swimming Pools
there are quite a few public swimming pools in Nanchang, but they can get quite crowded and are often full of children. If you prefer a more peaceful swim you should head for a hotel pool. Though smaller and more expensive than the public pools they are quieter, cleaner and usually heated. Be warned however, many people in China like to swim circuits around the edges of the pool rather than lengths.
If you swim in a hotel pool and you are not a guest in the hotel you'll probably need to buy a membership. Memberships are usually sold for 3, 6 and 12 months. Some memberships offer unlimited visits during, whilst others limit the number of visits. Check with each hotel for terms and conditions
Hotels with swimming pools include:
The Gloria Grand - Address: 39 North Yanjiang Road (Yanjiang Bei lu) 0791-6738855
The Regal Hotel -
The Jin Feng hotel - Address: 281 West Zhanqian Road (Zhanqian Xi Lu), 0791-8867777
Trilec Nanchang - Address: 28 Xinfu Road (Xinfu Lu), 0791-8828888
If you swim in a hotel pool and you are not a guest in the hotel you'll probably need to buy a membership. Memberships are usually sold for 3, 6 and 12 months. Some memberships offer unlimited visits during, whilst others limit the number of visits. Check with each hotel for terms and conditions
Hotels with swimming pools include:
The Gloria Grand - Address: 39 North Yanjiang Road (Yanjiang Bei lu) 0791-6738855
The Regal Hotel -
The Jin Feng hotel - Address: 281 West Zhanqian Road (Zhanqian Xi Lu), 0791-8867777
Trilec Nanchang - Address: 28 Xinfu Road (Xinfu Lu), 0791-8828888
Golf Courses
Mingya European City, 601 Lushan Avene South, 0791-3821900 www.mingya.cn
铭雅欧洲城, 庐山南大道601号
Ming ya ou zhou cheng, Lu shan nan da dao 601 hao,
Cuilin Golf Club, 828 Golf Holiday Inn, Liantang, Nanchang, 0791-5838182
翠林高尔夫俱乐部, 南昌莲塘八二八高尔夫度假酒店
Cui lin gao er fu ju le bu, Nan chang lian tang ba er ba gao er fu du jia jiu dian
Baoli Golf Club, 1999 Lushan Avene South, 0791-3803333
保利高尔夫球会, 庐山南大道1999号
Bao li gao er fu qiu hui, Lu shan nan da dao 1999 hao
Have you played on any of these courses? Leave your reviews in the comments section.
铭雅欧洲城, 庐山南大道601号
Ming ya ou zhou cheng, Lu shan nan da dao 601 hao,
Cuilin Golf Club, 828 Golf Holiday Inn, Liantang, Nanchang, 0791-5838182
翠林高尔夫俱乐部, 南昌莲塘八二八高尔夫度假酒店
Cui lin gao er fu ju le bu, Nan chang lian tang ba er ba gao er fu du jia jiu dian
Baoli Golf Club, 1999 Lushan Avene South, 0791-3803333
保利高尔夫球会, 庐山南大道1999号
Bao li gao er fu qiu hui, Lu shan nan da dao 1999 hao
Have you played on any of these courses? Leave your reviews in the comments section.
Sunday, 12 April 2009
Longhu Shan
Dragon and Tiger Mountain (Longhu Shan) is a famous Taoist mountain located about 16 km (about 9.94 miles) south of Yingtan City. The mountain, also referred to as the 'Residence of Celestials' and 'Blessed Earthly Abode' because of its beautiful scenery, is a cradle of Taoism.
According to records, in the middle of the East Han Dynasty (25-220), Zhang Daoling, the first Tian Shi (a Taoist priest), started to distill elixirs at this historic mountain, originally named 'Mount of Splendid Clouds'. As the elixirs were made a dragon and a tiger would appear, leading to the name by which the mountain is now known.
Shangqing Palace in Shangqing Old Town Scenic Area, first built in East Han Dynasty, is the place for Tian Shi to pray and the place where all gods received their official ranks. It was as large as the royal palace, but one Chi (about 1.094 feet) lower to show the respect for the royal prerogative.
Apart from being a sacred place for Taoism, Dragon and Tiger Mountain is also home to scenery of outstanding beauty. There are a total of ninety-nine peaks, twenty-four boulders, one hundred and eight natural and artificial sights and over twenty wells, ponds, streams and waterfalls. 'Ten cannot' rocks in this area are famous for the vivid guise and attractive stories. They are: the nun carrying monk cannot pass by; the jade comb that cannot comb the hair; the water lily that cannot be wore; the test-sword stone that cannot be put to the test; the celestial peach that cannot be eaten; the stone drum that cannot be beat; the splendid silk that cannot be wrapped; the fairy cannot be married; the scoop that cannot be used and the Taoism Hall that people cannot sit in.
Sitting on a raft and drifting along the winding Lu Xi River which meanders westwards through the whole mountain area and links sights scattered along the banks, visitors can take in all the beautiful scenes, blue skies, white clouds, green water and red mountains.
Another marvelous sight in Dragon and Tiger Mountain are the Cliff Tombs. Most of the tombs are about 50 meters (160 feet) above the water, and some are more than 300 meters (984 feet) high. Whilst travelling along the Lu Xi River, Cliff Tombs of the Spring and Autumn Period (770-476 BC) and the Warring States Period (476-221BC) can be seen along the river banks. Because of its expansive area, large quantity, dangerous location and unique shape, the tombs got the title 'the best natural archaeological museum of China'. No one is quite sure why or how the ancient site was built, so it's still a mystery waiting for you to discover.
According to records, in the middle of the East Han Dynasty (25-220), Zhang Daoling, the first Tian Shi (a Taoist priest), started to distill elixirs at this historic mountain, originally named 'Mount of Splendid Clouds'. As the elixirs were made a dragon and a tiger would appear, leading to the name by which the mountain is now known.
Shangqing Palace in Shangqing Old Town Scenic Area, first built in East Han Dynasty, is the place for Tian Shi to pray and the place where all gods received their official ranks. It was as large as the royal palace, but one Chi (about 1.094 feet) lower to show the respect for the royal prerogative.
Apart from being a sacred place for Taoism, Dragon and Tiger Mountain is also home to scenery of outstanding beauty. There are a total of ninety-nine peaks, twenty-four boulders, one hundred and eight natural and artificial sights and over twenty wells, ponds, streams and waterfalls. 'Ten cannot' rocks in this area are famous for the vivid guise and attractive stories. They are: the nun carrying monk cannot pass by; the jade comb that cannot comb the hair; the water lily that cannot be wore; the test-sword stone that cannot be put to the test; the celestial peach that cannot be eaten; the stone drum that cannot be beat; the splendid silk that cannot be wrapped; the fairy cannot be married; the scoop that cannot be used and the Taoism Hall that people cannot sit in.
Sitting on a raft and drifting along the winding Lu Xi River which meanders westwards through the whole mountain area and links sights scattered along the banks, visitors can take in all the beautiful scenes, blue skies, white clouds, green water and red mountains.
Another marvelous sight in Dragon and Tiger Mountain are the Cliff Tombs. Most of the tombs are about 50 meters (160 feet) above the water, and some are more than 300 meters (984 feet) high. Whilst travelling along the Lu Xi River, Cliff Tombs of the Spring and Autumn Period (770-476 BC) and the Warring States Period (476-221BC) can be seen along the river banks. Because of its expansive area, large quantity, dangerous location and unique shape, the tombs got the title 'the best natural archaeological museum of China'. No one is quite sure why or how the ancient site was built, so it's still a mystery waiting for you to discover.
Changbei Airport
Nanchang's Changbei International Airport has flights to most major cities in mainland China as well as direct flights to Hongkong. There are also a number of international transfer flights. Shenzhen Airlines has recently opened services to a number cities in Southeast Asia including Bangkok, Ho Chi Minh City and Kuala Lumpur, with transfers in Shenzhen. Additional flights from Nanchang with transfers in Shenzhen will begin in the first half of 2009, including flights to Osaka, Seoul, Manila, Hanoi and Sabah.
Friday, 10 April 2009
Jiangxi Antique Store
The Jiangxi Province Cultural Relic store is located in Nanchang city centre, close to the main shopping districts. The store is a subsidiary of the Provincal Cultural Department (Cultural Relic Management Institution) and specializes in the management of cultural relics and antiques. The store has been operating since 1977 and now has has 30 years of experience in selling and handling high quality genuine and reproduction antiques. This shop is Jiangxi's biggest source of cultural relics, artware the antiques fromall of China's previous dynasties.
Address : Minde Lu, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330008Phone:0791-6778943Fax:0791-6779142
Address : Minde Lu, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330008Phone:0791-6778943Fax:0791-6779142
Shops (small - general)
Yin Ba Wen Hua - Ethnic Tibetan and Indian style jewelry, bags and clothing
Address: Minde Lu (just past Mayflower Bar)
Tel: (0791) 2908467
Hao Yun Wu Chocolates - wide range of imported chocolates, biscuits and other snacks from around the world
Address: GuangChang Bei Lu (behind Jiangxi Arts Theatre)
Tel: 0791-6281980
Giant Sail Wine
Address: Dieshan Lu (behind China Mercant Bank at the end of Shengli Lu Walking Street)
Tel: 0791-6767795
Address: Minde Lu (just past Mayflower Bar)
Tel: (0791) 2908467
Hao Yun Wu Chocolates - wide range of imported chocolates, biscuits and other snacks from around the world
Address: GuangChang Bei Lu (behind Jiangxi Arts Theatre)
Tel: 0791-6281980
Giant Sail Wine
Address: Dieshan Lu (behind China Mercant Bank at the end of Shengli Lu Walking Street)
Tel: 0791-6767795
Japanese, Thai, Korean and Malaysian Restaurants
Banana Palace Thai Restaurant - Address: 999 Ganjian Nan Da Dao, Honggu Tan
Tel: 377 8888
Zhu Ting Japanese Restaurant - Address: 318 Minde Lu
"M" (Malaysian Restaurant) - Address: Guangchang Dong Lu, HengMao
Tel: 6662333
Tel: 377 8888
Zhu Ting Japanese Restaurant - Address: 318 Minde Lu
"M" (Malaysian Restaurant) - Address: Guangchang Dong Lu, HengMao
Tel: 6662333
Parks
- Hubin Park
- Ganjinag Riverside Park. Located on the West bank of the River Gan, this park stretches from Bayi Bridge to Nanchang Bridge. Besides the wonderful views across the river, the park also introduces many cultural figures from Jiangxi's history, including writers, artists and scholars. The park can be accessed at a number of points and is free to enter.
- People's Park
- Bayi Park
SanQingShan
San Qing Mountain is a renowned Taoist Mountain. The mountain is made up of three main summits: "Yujing", "Yushui" and "Yuhua", with Yujing being the highest at 1817 meters above sea level.
As well as being a National Park of China the area was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2008.
Links
http://www.sanqingshan.net.cn/english/fengguang/yujing.asp
http://www.sanqingshan.net.cn/english/pdf/Geology/Sanqingshan-The%20Hidden%20Treasure%20of%20China.pdf
http://www.sanqingshan.net.cn/english/pdf/Migon
Have you visited SanQingshan? Leave your reviews in the comments section.
As well as being a National Park of China the area was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2008.
Links
http://www.sanqingshan.net.cn/english/fengguang/yujing.asp
http://www.sanqingshan.net.cn/english/pdf/Geology/Sanqingshan-The%20Hidden%20Treasure%20of%20China.pdf
http://www.sanqingshan.net.cn/english/pdf/Migon
Have you visited SanQingshan? Leave your reviews in the comments section.
LuShan
One of the most popular tourist destinations in Jiangxi province and a UNESCO World Heritage Site (Cultural), Mount Lu (卢山 Lushan) is located north of Nanchang near the city of Jiujiang. The Mount Lushan National Park covers an area of 302 square kilometers and its highest peak, Dahanyang Peak, rises to 1474 meters above sea level. Altogether there are 99 peaks in the park, as well as numerous waterfalls, natural grottoes, ravines, lakes and pools. Much of the park is forested and there are many examples of rare flora and fauna.
The area has long been an inspiration for artists, poets, monks, and academics. In the late 19th century it was a popular summer retreat for European tea traders and missionaries and Guling village, which acts as the main resort on the mountain, reflects this with many villas and hotels built in the European style. The mountain also provided the location for two important political events in the history of the Chinese Communist party. The first, often referred to as the Lushan Conference, took place in 1959. The conference was a meeting of the Central Committee of the Communist Party, a meeting which led to the dismissal of Peng Dehuai, an influential General and China’s defense minister at the time. Peng’s downfall resulted in Mao securing his position as the ultimate authority in China. The second event occurred in 1970 at a meeting of the Politburo. Little is known about what exactly occurred at this meeting but it seems that there was a clash between Lin Biao and Mao over the direction in which the country was headed. Mao won out in the end and a year later Lin was dead.
The National Park contains many attractions including: Bailudong Academy, Donglin Temple, The Immortals Cave, Flower Path, Dragon Head Cliff, Meilu Villa, Three Cascade Waterfall, Black Dragon Pool.
http://www.china-lushan.com/english/
Have you visited LuShan? Leave your reviews in the comments section.
The area has long been an inspiration for artists, poets, monks, and academics. In the late 19th century it was a popular summer retreat for European tea traders and missionaries and Guling village, which acts as the main resort on the mountain, reflects this with many villas and hotels built in the European style. The mountain also provided the location for two important political events in the history of the Chinese Communist party. The first, often referred to as the Lushan Conference, took place in 1959. The conference was a meeting of the Central Committee of the Communist Party, a meeting which led to the dismissal of Peng Dehuai, an influential General and China’s defense minister at the time. Peng’s downfall resulted in Mao securing his position as the ultimate authority in China. The second event occurred in 1970 at a meeting of the Politburo. Little is known about what exactly occurred at this meeting but it seems that there was a clash between Lin Biao and Mao over the direction in which the country was headed. Mao won out in the end and a year later Lin was dead.
The National Park contains many attractions including: Bailudong Academy, Donglin Temple, The Immortals Cave, Flower Path, Dragon Head Cliff, Meilu Villa, Three Cascade Waterfall, Black Dragon Pool.
http://www.china-lushan.com/english/
Have you visited LuShan? Leave your reviews in the comments section.
Jinggang Shan
Located about 350km from Nanchang on the border between Jiangxi and Hunan province, Jinggang Shan is well known throughout China as a place of outstanding natural beauty. However, there is more to this bamboo and pine covered mountain range than looks alone. History has left its mark on these mountains, most recently in the Revolutionary era where they were the base of operations for Communist troops after the failed Nanchang Uprising. It was from Jinggang Shan that Mao led his followers on one of the most famous journeys in world history, the Long March.
Landmarks include The Five Fingers Peak, which with an elevation of 1583 meters is the highest peak in the area and a major symbol of Jinggangshan. The peak is said to resemble five fingers and has been featured on the 100-yuan RMB bill.When visiting Five Fingers Peak look out for bobtail monkeys which like to play along the unusual rock formations. A sightseeing platform is located across from the peak allowing visitors to enjoy the magnificent views. Jinggang Shan is also known for its waterfalls the most famous of which is Bailongtan Waterfall which has an 82-meter drop. Other falls in the area include the Longtan Waterfall which drops into the Green Jade Pond, Lock-Dragon Waterfall which feeds the Five-Dragon Pond and the Pearl Waterfall Dragon-Pond at the bottom of which is the Golden-Lock Pond.
For those interested in modern Chinese history the city of Ciping, used as a revolutionary base by the communists, is a great place to learn about the Chinese Revolution. A visit to the Mt. Jinggang Revolution Museum and the Tower of the Revolutionary Martyrs is also recommended.
Have you visited JinggangShan? Leave your reviews in the comments section.
Landmarks include The Five Fingers Peak, which with an elevation of 1583 meters is the highest peak in the area and a major symbol of Jinggangshan. The peak is said to resemble five fingers and has been featured on the 100-yuan RMB bill.When visiting Five Fingers Peak look out for bobtail monkeys which like to play along the unusual rock formations. A sightseeing platform is located across from the peak allowing visitors to enjoy the magnificent views. Jinggang Shan is also known for its waterfalls the most famous of which is Bailongtan Waterfall which has an 82-meter drop. Other falls in the area include the Longtan Waterfall which drops into the Green Jade Pond, Lock-Dragon Waterfall which feeds the Five-Dragon Pond and the Pearl Waterfall Dragon-Pond at the bottom of which is the Golden-Lock Pond.
For those interested in modern Chinese history the city of Ciping, used as a revolutionary base by the communists, is a great place to learn about the Chinese Revolution. A visit to the Mt. Jinggang Revolution Museum and the Tower of the Revolutionary Martyrs is also recommended.
Have you visited JinggangShan? Leave your reviews in the comments section.
You Min Temple
The Buddhist You Min Temple was first built in 503AD and reconstructed in 1995. The temple became famous through a distinguished Tang Dynasty Buddhist master called Mazhu, and for its large copper Buddha. The copper Buddha was destroyed during the early years of the Cultural Revolution but has since been reconstructed. One of the temple’s ancient relics which managed to survive those destructive years is a copper clock cast during the Southern Tang Dynasty. The clock is now set in the temple’s bell tower.
The temple is noted for its colorful red and yellow decoration, which is quite unusual for this kind of temple, and for being a very active temple. Visitors to the temple can see monks wandering through the courtyards and local worshippers burning incense and reciting prayers in front of the various alters scattered around the temple. You Min temple houses a number of impressive statues of the Buddha, though visitors should be circumspect when photographing them so as not to offend the monks and worshippers.
Have you visited YouMin Temple? Leave your reviews in the comments section.
The temple is noted for its colorful red and yellow decoration, which is quite unusual for this kind of temple, and for being a very active temple. Visitors to the temple can see monks wandering through the courtyards and local worshippers burning incense and reciting prayers in front of the various alters scattered around the temple. You Min temple houses a number of impressive statues of the Buddha, though visitors should be circumspect when photographing them so as not to offend the monks and worshippers.
Have you visited YouMin Temple? Leave your reviews in the comments section.
The Star of Nanchang
When it opened for business in May 2006, the Star of Nanchang surpassed the London Eye to become the world’s tallest operating Ferris wheel. Standing at 160 meters it is now the second tallest Ferris wheel in the world, with Singapore’s ‘Flyer’, which opened in 2008, beating it by just 5 metres. Both are set to be dwarfed by Beijing’s Great Wheel, which is due to open in 2009 and is planned to be 208 metres tall.
The Star of Nanchang can accommodate up to 480 passengers in 61 gondolas, each of which can carry a maximum of 8 passengers. A single rotation of the wheel takes approximately 30 minutes and the slow rotation speed allows passengers to embark and disembark from the gondolas without any need for the rotation to be stopped.
Located on the eastern bank of the River Gan, the wheel offers spectacular views of the newly built Hong Gu Tan and Hong Jiao Zhou districts, BaYi, Nanchang and Sheng Mi bridges, as well as the river Gan itself.
Near the foot of the wheel are an outdoor swimming pool, a BBQ area, and a small amusement park. A new hotel, restaurant and bar area is being developed about 100 metres to the south and the Nanchang Exhibition Centre is just over the road.
Have you visited The Star of Nanchang? Leave your reviews in the comments section.
The Star of Nanchang can accommodate up to 480 passengers in 61 gondolas, each of which can carry a maximum of 8 passengers. A single rotation of the wheel takes approximately 30 minutes and the slow rotation speed allows passengers to embark and disembark from the gondolas without any need for the rotation to be stopped.
Located on the eastern bank of the River Gan, the wheel offers spectacular views of the newly built Hong Gu Tan and Hong Jiao Zhou districts, BaYi, Nanchang and Sheng Mi bridges, as well as the river Gan itself.
Near the foot of the wheel are an outdoor swimming pool, a BBQ area, and a small amusement park. A new hotel, restaurant and bar area is being developed about 100 metres to the south and the Nanchang Exhibition Centre is just over the road.
Have you visited The Star of Nanchang? Leave your reviews in the comments section.
Learning Chinese Online
Given that Nanchang does not currently have any language schools offering part-time courses to non-native speakers of Chinese we thought we'd introduce some on-line options.
http://www.rocketlanguages.com/chinese/
http://www.rosettastone.co.uk/personal/languages/learn-chinese-mandarin
http://chinesepod.com/
http://www.publicchinese.com/
http://www.bbc.co.uk/languages/chinese/real_chinese/
http://www.hanyu.com.cn/en/enhome.aspx
Have you studied Chinese? Leave your reviews in the comments section.
http://www.rocketlanguages.com/chinese/
http://www.rosettastone.co.uk/personal/languages/learn-chinese-mandarin
http://chinesepod.com/
http://www.publicchinese.com/
http://www.bbc.co.uk/languages/chinese/real_chinese/
http://www.hanyu.com.cn/en/enhome.aspx
Have you studied Chinese? Leave your reviews in the comments section.
Images from China's Past
There's no denying the internet is a great resource but one of its drawbacks is the sheer volume of information that can be found online. Thankfully, however, there are people out there who help to make the task of finding information more manageable. One of those people is Dave at the Mutant Palm blog who has put together a wonderful list of links to online images from China's past. He also asks readers to leave any links that they are aware of in the comments section.
The list contains links to photographs and illustrations. To view the list click here
The list contains links to photographs and illustrations. To view the list click here
Foreign Devils in the Flowery Kingdom
Originally published in 1940, Foreign Devils in the Flowery Kingdom is the first of the CER classics Series. In this book, author Carl Crow recalls his 25 years of adventures and success in Shanghai during the tumultuous early decades of the 20th century.
This 23-chapter book is a tale of East meets West set in the wild and heady days of interwar China. It is an account of how two cultures clashed, bickering over business deals and social norms until they eventually learned to live with each other.
For an introduction to and excerpt from this book click here
To buy this book on Amazon click here
Have you read this book? Leave your reviews in the comments section.
This 23-chapter book is a tale of East meets West set in the wild and heady days of interwar China. It is an account of how two cultures clashed, bickering over business deals and social norms until they eventually learned to live with each other.
For an introduction to and excerpt from this book click here
To buy this book on Amazon click here
Have you read this book? Leave your reviews in the comments section.
In the Lap of Tigers
Founded in the remote mountains of China's Jiangxi Province in 1958, the Communist Labor University introduced uneducated laborers to basic agricultural science and farming techniques through an innovative work-study program until 1980. Drawing on a wealth of archival materials, John Cleverley explores the inner workings of this unique institution and the personal involvement of Mao Zedong, Zhou Enlai, Zhu De, and Deng Xiaoping. Illuminating the internal and external politics of a remarkable social experiment from both an institutional and personal perspective, the book underscores the larger issues of educational reform and political change in China.
About the Author: John Cleverley is honorary professor, University of Sydney, and managing director of Asian Overseas Services Party Ltd.
For an introduction and preview of this book click here
To buy this book on amazon click here
Have you read this book? Leave your reviews in the comments section.
About the Author: John Cleverley is honorary professor, University of Sydney, and managing director of Asian Overseas Services Party Ltd.
For an introduction and preview of this book click here
To buy this book on amazon click here
Have you read this book? Leave your reviews in the comments section.
Taobao Field Guide
Shopping online in Chinese might seem like an impossible task to many foreigners, but a new website taobaofieldguide.com looks set to make life alot easier. In their own words the website is “a guide for English-speakers to use the Chinese-language online shopping service, Taobao. We are useful if you are living in China, or if you want to buy something through the Taobao website.”
And in case you are worried that the people at TFG are just trying to part you from your money they also state:
“We are not affiliated with Taobao or any of the Sellers promoted here. We post about products for three reasons:
We have bought it before, and think it rocks.
We think they would be useful for you, our lovely laowai readers.
They are super crazy and we think you would like to take a little look.
They go on to say “Some of the links on the site earn us a commission. A ridiculously tiny commission. But that is more of an experiement than a profit plan. You will recognize those links from their ‘alimama’ domain name. We evaluate all Sellers from a ‘would we buy from them’ perspective.”
Some of you not familiar with Taobao are probably wondering why any of this would be useful to you, but the fact is you can find almost anything on there, and often at a much cheaper price than the high street.
Finally, if you’re still not convinced I’ll leave you with one last snippet from the Field Guide
“Taobao has been crazy useful for us for several years. We’ve bought a ton of stuff, and discovered a ton more crazy stuff. But we discovered that our friend’s lives were not filled with Taobao. They were, in fact, filled with sadness.
That’s why we set out to rid the world of this terrible sadness by sharing the gift of Taobao.”
Have you used this website? Leave your reviews in the comments section.
And in case you are worried that the people at TFG are just trying to part you from your money they also state:
“We are not affiliated with Taobao or any of the Sellers promoted here. We post about products for three reasons:
We have bought it before, and think it rocks.
We think they would be useful for you, our lovely laowai readers.
They are super crazy and we think you would like to take a little look.
They go on to say “Some of the links on the site earn us a commission. A ridiculously tiny commission. But that is more of an experiement than a profit plan. You will recognize those links from their ‘alimama’ domain name. We evaluate all Sellers from a ‘would we buy from them’ perspective.”
Some of you not familiar with Taobao are probably wondering why any of this would be useful to you, but the fact is you can find almost anything on there, and often at a much cheaper price than the high street.
Finally, if you’re still not convinced I’ll leave you with one last snippet from the Field Guide
“Taobao has been crazy useful for us for several years. We’ve bought a ton of stuff, and discovered a ton more crazy stuff. But we discovered that our friend’s lives were not filled with Taobao. They were, in fact, filled with sadness.
That’s why we set out to rid the world of this terrible sadness by sharing the gift of Taobao.”
Have you used this website? Leave your reviews in the comments section.
How to take a City Centre Bus
The first thing you need to know about taking a bus in Nanchang is that Nanchang's buses have two sets of doors, one set at the front and the second in the middle of the bus. You get on at the front and get off in the middle.
The second thing is that the majority of city buses have a fixed fare of either 1 or 2 yuan, no matter how many stops you travel. You need to prepare the right amount of money as drivers will not give you change. When you get on the bus there is a box located next to the driver. Drop your money in the box and move down the bus. You can also buy a card which you swipe over a reader and the fare is automatically deducted.
Buses can often be very crowded so be careful of your personal belongings. There are also signs reminding passangers to give up their seats for the elderly, pregnant women etc.
One habit many passangers in Nanchang have is that they often sit in an aisle seat leaving the window seat empty and will not move to the window seat in order to let you sit down. Additionally they will rarely stand up to allow you to get to the window seat, so you often have to scramble over them in order to sit down. The same applies when you are ready to get off.
Buses tend to stop at every bus stop on their route so generally you don't need to let the driver know you want to get off. However, if the bus is crowded it may take time for you to get to the doors so start to get ready to get off as you approach your stop. If the doors close before you get off just give a shout in the direction of the driver (if you can't speak Chinese even just "Oi, I'm getting off" will do as your fellow passangers are likely to take up your cause for you and let the driver know).
Be careful of your belongings on buses, espescially when crowded. Some thieves even carry razor blades to slash bags.
Most buses do not have a regular timetable, just a time when the service begins in the morning and ends in the evening. However, most buses are quite frequent.
Bus stops can be found throughout the city and it will save you a lot of money if you take the bus compared to taxis. Most bus stops have a sign listing which buses stop there and routes for those buses (in Chinese). Ask a friend or colleague to help you to know which routes (bus routes are by number) are most useful for you. It may be confusing at first but you'll soon get the hang of it.
The second thing is that the majority of city buses have a fixed fare of either 1 or 2 yuan, no matter how many stops you travel. You need to prepare the right amount of money as drivers will not give you change. When you get on the bus there is a box located next to the driver. Drop your money in the box and move down the bus. You can also buy a card which you swipe over a reader and the fare is automatically deducted.
Buses can often be very crowded so be careful of your personal belongings. There are also signs reminding passangers to give up their seats for the elderly, pregnant women etc.
One habit many passangers in Nanchang have is that they often sit in an aisle seat leaving the window seat empty and will not move to the window seat in order to let you sit down. Additionally they will rarely stand up to allow you to get to the window seat, so you often have to scramble over them in order to sit down. The same applies when you are ready to get off.
Buses tend to stop at every bus stop on their route so generally you don't need to let the driver know you want to get off. However, if the bus is crowded it may take time for you to get to the doors so start to get ready to get off as you approach your stop. If the doors close before you get off just give a shout in the direction of the driver (if you can't speak Chinese even just "Oi, I'm getting off" will do as your fellow passangers are likely to take up your cause for you and let the driver know).
Be careful of your belongings on buses, espescially when crowded. Some thieves even carry razor blades to slash bags.
Most buses do not have a regular timetable, just a time when the service begins in the morning and ends in the evening. However, most buses are quite frequent.
Bus stops can be found throughout the city and it will save you a lot of money if you take the bus compared to taxis. Most bus stops have a sign listing which buses stop there and routes for those buses (in Chinese). Ask a friend or colleague to help you to know which routes (bus routes are by number) are most useful for you. It may be confusing at first but you'll soon get the hang of it.
How to take a Taxi
Taking a taxi in Nanchang is quite straight forward. You can hail a taxi almost anywhere, though some roads are restricted during peak traffic hours. If you find that taxi after taxi passes you by then walk on a bit to try and find a place where it may be more convenient for them to stop.
If you don't know how to say your destination in Chinese then make sure you have it written down, either on paper or stored in your mobile phone (both in English so you can read it and in Chinese so the driver can). Try to get businesscards of places you are likely to visit and carry them around with you. Failing that have a Chinese-speaking friend on speed dail and let them tell the driver where you want to go.
Drivers may occasionally refuse to take you to your destination but usually this is because of a shift change. It is usually quite easy to find a taxi but at certain times, suc as rush hour, you will probably need to wait for quite a while, particulalrly on some of the main roads. It can also be hard to find a taxi when it's raining.
If you don't know how to say your destination in Chinese then make sure you have it written down, either on paper or stored in your mobile phone (both in English so you can read it and in Chinese so the driver can). Try to get businesscards of places you are likely to visit and carry them around with you. Failing that have a Chinese-speaking friend on speed dail and let them tell the driver where you want to go.
Drivers may occasionally refuse to take you to your destination but usually this is because of a shift change. It is usually quite easy to find a taxi but at certain times, suc as rush hour, you will probably need to wait for quite a while, particulalrly on some of the main roads. It can also be hard to find a taxi when it's raining.
It is unlikely, though not impossible, that a driver may try to take you the long way round or cheat you in some other way. The most difficult trick in taking taxis is to not get taken on the long route and ripped off. In order to minimize your chances of being taken advantage of:
Never agree to a pre-set price offered to you by a driver, it is almost certainly more than what the meter would cost.
If you can, ask the cab driver if they know the destination before you set off. If they don't then find a driver that does. If they say they know but it turns out that they actually don't you should not be expected to pay extra while they drive around looking for your destination. Ask for a reciept at the end of the journey. You can then complain if you feel the driver has cheated you. Many times a driver will apologise and charge you less than what is on the meter though.
Try not to look like a toursit. Give the impression that you know where you are going and if you can then rehearse saying the name of the place a few times before you get in the cab, and say it like you've said it a thousand times before.
Always ask for a reciept. These are printed out and will have the driver's number, the journey time and cost. On it you will find contact information for making complaints. This maight also prove useful if you've left something in a taxi.
However, the majority of taxi drivers are very polite and friendly and will happily let you practice your Chinese on them, or try out their English on you. And like taxi drivers the world over, they are not short of opinions on everything under the sun, nor are they backwards at coming forwards with them. Sme of the most entertaining and interesting conversations you can have in China can often be had with taxi drivers.
Finally, be warned...many taxi drivers are not known for following the rules of the road and you may find yourself on the wrong side of the road with a bus heading straight for you or some other equally hair-raising experience. If you are a nervous passenger, sit in the back and try to think happy thoughts!
How to Use a Squat Toilet
If you are spending more than a few days in Nanchang, (or China as a whole) you will more than likely have to use a squat toilet. Although the prospect may seem daunting to the uninitiated, using a squat is not as difficult as you might imagine. Nevertheless, a bit of knowledge about what to expect and some tips on usage can certainly help first-timers to avoid some of the more common problems. Generally speaking, this issue is more likely to affect women than men, but the advice below holds true for both.
1. Tissues. Before you even leave your home or hotel, make sure you've got at least one pack of tissues with you as most public toilets don’t provide toilet paper. Also, don’t forget wet wipes and hand sanitizer as there’s a good chance that soap won’t provided when you wash your hands.
2. Bags. If you are carrying a bag, hand it to a friend as hooks are seldom found and you won’t want to put your bag on the floor!
3. Locks. Check to see if the lock on the door works. Many times broken locks don’t get repaired, so you’ll have to use a spare hand to keep the door shut. Even if the lock shows ‘green’ there may be someone already in there, so knock or open cubicle doors with caution.
4. Wet Floors. The floors of public toilets can be quite wet, either from being washed or from splashing. This can cause a couple of problems. First of all it can make the floor quite slippery. Second, the cuffs of trousers may get wet, so roll them up a little to keep them dry.
5. Spending a Penny. OK, you’ve got your tissues, got rid of your bag, found an empty cubicle and taken precautions to avoid getting wet…now comes the hard part, actually using the toilet. In fact, this is not quite as difficult as you may think. The hardest part is balancing, and once you’ve mastered this the rest is quite easy. Face forward (the door) and plant your feet either side of the pot. Sometimes there are grooved sections on either side for your feet, sometimes there aren’t. Let your pants down and lower yourself over the hole (aiming for the middle of the potty). Some people find it easier to keep their feet flat, while others prefer to balance on their toes. It’s probably more secure if you can keep your feet flat. Practice at home first to get used to it (and to build up your thigh and calf muscles which might feel a bit painful at first). Once you’re secure, you’re free to wee!
6. Used Paper. Whether you’ve done a number 1 or number 2, if you’ve used paper try to remember not to put it into the toilet as most plumbing in China can’t handle paper being flushed. Often you’ll find a small wastebasket next to the pot. Put all tissues (and sanitary products) in there. If there isn’t a basket then drop it down the loo.
7. Cost. If you are using the bathroom in a hotel, restaurant, department store etc you are unlikely to have to pay. However, many public restrooms will charge. Keep some small change handy, such as a few 5 jiao coins. If you have to pay, a packet of tissues will probably be included in the fee.
Links:
http://www.danwei.org/2008/01/22/JDM080122toilet.php (humorous illustrated guide)
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Squat_toilet
http://www.worldhum.com/features/how-to/use_a_squat_toilet_20060923/
Image from http://www.danwei.org/beijing/toilets_of_beijing.php
1. Tissues. Before you even leave your home or hotel, make sure you've got at least one pack of tissues with you as most public toilets don’t provide toilet paper. Also, don’t forget wet wipes and hand sanitizer as there’s a good chance that soap won’t provided when you wash your hands.
2. Bags. If you are carrying a bag, hand it to a friend as hooks are seldom found and you won’t want to put your bag on the floor!
3. Locks. Check to see if the lock on the door works. Many times broken locks don’t get repaired, so you’ll have to use a spare hand to keep the door shut. Even if the lock shows ‘green’ there may be someone already in there, so knock or open cubicle doors with caution.
4. Wet Floors. The floors of public toilets can be quite wet, either from being washed or from splashing. This can cause a couple of problems. First of all it can make the floor quite slippery. Second, the cuffs of trousers may get wet, so roll them up a little to keep them dry.
5. Spending a Penny. OK, you’ve got your tissues, got rid of your bag, found an empty cubicle and taken precautions to avoid getting wet…now comes the hard part, actually using the toilet. In fact, this is not quite as difficult as you may think. The hardest part is balancing, and once you’ve mastered this the rest is quite easy. Face forward (the door) and plant your feet either side of the pot. Sometimes there are grooved sections on either side for your feet, sometimes there aren’t. Let your pants down and lower yourself over the hole (aiming for the middle of the potty). Some people find it easier to keep their feet flat, while others prefer to balance on their toes. It’s probably more secure if you can keep your feet flat. Practice at home first to get used to it (and to build up your thigh and calf muscles which might feel a bit painful at first). Once you’re secure, you’re free to wee!
6. Used Paper. Whether you’ve done a number 1 or number 2, if you’ve used paper try to remember not to put it into the toilet as most plumbing in China can’t handle paper being flushed. Often you’ll find a small wastebasket next to the pot. Put all tissues (and sanitary products) in there. If there isn’t a basket then drop it down the loo.
7. Cost. If you are using the bathroom in a hotel, restaurant, department store etc you are unlikely to have to pay. However, many public restrooms will charge. Keep some small change handy, such as a few 5 jiao coins. If you have to pay, a packet of tissues will probably be included in the fee.
Links:
http://www.danwei.org/2008/01/22/JDM080122toilet.php (humorous illustrated guide)
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Squat_toilet
http://www.worldhum.com/features/how-to/use_a_squat_toilet_20060923/
Image from http://www.danwei.org/beijing/toilets_of_beijing.php
Time in Nanchang
China follows two calendars, the Gregorian and the lunar. The lunar calendar is predominantly used for setting the dates of festivals such as Chinese New Year and the Mid-Autumn festival. The dates of these festivals change from year to year so if you are staying in China for any length of time you will need to check the dates of such festivals as they are usually also national public holidays.
The Gregorian calendar dates for Chinese New Year’s eve for the next ten years are:
2009 26th January
2010 14th February
2011 3rd February
2012 23rd January
2013 10th February
2014 31st January
2015 19th February
2016 8th February
2017 28th January
2018 16th February
Time throughout China is set to Beijing time, no matter how far east or west a city may lie from the nation’s capital. Beijing time is 8 hours ahead of GMT. There is no daylight saving time in China.
When it is noon in Nanchang the time in various cities around the world is:
Sydney 2pm
Tokyo 1pm
Hong Kong Noon
Paris 5am
Rome 5am
London 4am
New York 11pm (the previous day)
Los Angeles 8pm (the previous day)
For more detailed information on time zone differences between Nanchang and other cities around the world check out www.timeanddate.com/worldclock
For an interesting look at the mathematics of the Chinese lunar calendar see The Mathematics of the Chinese Calendar
The Gregorian calendar dates for Chinese New Year’s eve for the next ten years are:
2009 26th January
2010 14th February
2011 3rd February
2012 23rd January
2013 10th February
2014 31st January
2015 19th February
2016 8th February
2017 28th January
2018 16th February
Time throughout China is set to Beijing time, no matter how far east or west a city may lie from the nation’s capital. Beijing time is 8 hours ahead of GMT. There is no daylight saving time in China.
When it is noon in Nanchang the time in various cities around the world is:
Sydney 2pm
Tokyo 1pm
Hong Kong Noon
Paris 5am
Rome 5am
London 4am
New York 11pm (the previous day)
Los Angeles 8pm (the previous day)
For more detailed information on time zone differences between Nanchang and other cities around the world check out www.timeanddate.com/worldclock
For an interesting look at the mathematics of the Chinese lunar calendar see The Mathematics of the Chinese Calendar
Weather in Nanchang
What is the weather like in Nanchang?
Nanchang has a subtropical monsoon climate which means a hot and humid summer and a mild damp winter. Spring is generally wet with heavy rainfall between April and June. Autumn is usually the most pleasant season, though it is all too short.
Spring (mid March - mid May)
Although it is quite wet, spring in Nanchang can be quite a pleasant time of year. Early morning and evening are still quite chilly but midday can be pretty warm so it is best to wear layers which you can take off or put back on as the temperature changes throughout the day. Keep an umbrella to hand though as April and May see a sharp increase in Nanchang’s rainfall.
Summer (mid May - mid September)
If there’s no reason for you to be in Nanchang during the summer months then don’t stay. Hot and very humid, even the locals complain about the summer here. Wear light clothes and stick to well ventilated or air-conditioned rooms. Even then you’ll often find your clothes stick to your skin. July and August are the hottest months, with temperatures averaging 29.4 degrees centigrade, and there is little difference between morning, noon and night. Many locals flee the city for the cooler climes of Lushan, as the only respite from the summer heat is when tropical storms hit China’s east coast bringing a welcome few days of cool mild weather to inland Nanchang. It is not for nothing that Nanchang is considered one of China’s “Four Furnaces”. Summer also sees some spectacular storms of thunder, lightening and very heavy rain.
Autumn (September - October)
As September progresses the temperature begins to fall and Nanchang starts to breathe once more. Nevertheless it can still be uncomfortably hot from midday to late afternoon. October is usually a very pleasant month, and it is probably the best time to visit Nanchang with low rainfall and mild temperatures.
Winter (mid November - mid March)
Although cities in the north of China are far colder than Nanchang in the winter you will be cold here all the time. This is due to the lack of central heating in almost every building. Locals wrap up with long thermal underwear, thick jumpers and heavy coats. Even in offices and classrooms people rarely take off their coats during the winter months. To make matters worse winters are damp and the cold can really get into your bones. If you don’t want feet like blocks of ice invest in a few pairs of very thick socks and lined boots. Despite the fact that the temperature rarely drops below freezing and snow is rare, the winter months in Nanchang can be very miserable.
Useful Links
http://www.climate-charts.com/Locations/p/PC58606.php
Nanchang has a subtropical monsoon climate which means a hot and humid summer and a mild damp winter. Spring is generally wet with heavy rainfall between April and June. Autumn is usually the most pleasant season, though it is all too short.
Spring (mid March - mid May)
Although it is quite wet, spring in Nanchang can be quite a pleasant time of year. Early morning and evening are still quite chilly but midday can be pretty warm so it is best to wear layers which you can take off or put back on as the temperature changes throughout the day. Keep an umbrella to hand though as April and May see a sharp increase in Nanchang’s rainfall.
Summer (mid May - mid September)
If there’s no reason for you to be in Nanchang during the summer months then don’t stay. Hot and very humid, even the locals complain about the summer here. Wear light clothes and stick to well ventilated or air-conditioned rooms. Even then you’ll often find your clothes stick to your skin. July and August are the hottest months, with temperatures averaging 29.4 degrees centigrade, and there is little difference between morning, noon and night. Many locals flee the city for the cooler climes of Lushan, as the only respite from the summer heat is when tropical storms hit China’s east coast bringing a welcome few days of cool mild weather to inland Nanchang. It is not for nothing that Nanchang is considered one of China’s “Four Furnaces”. Summer also sees some spectacular storms of thunder, lightening and very heavy rain.
Autumn (September - October)
As September progresses the temperature begins to fall and Nanchang starts to breathe once more. Nevertheless it can still be uncomfortably hot from midday to late afternoon. October is usually a very pleasant month, and it is probably the best time to visit Nanchang with low rainfall and mild temperatures.
Winter (mid November - mid March)
Although cities in the north of China are far colder than Nanchang in the winter you will be cold here all the time. This is due to the lack of central heating in almost every building. Locals wrap up with long thermal underwear, thick jumpers and heavy coats. Even in offices and classrooms people rarely take off their coats during the winter months. To make matters worse winters are damp and the cold can really get into your bones. If you don’t want feet like blocks of ice invest in a few pairs of very thick socks and lined boots. Despite the fact that the temperature rarely drops below freezing and snow is rare, the winter months in Nanchang can be very miserable.
Useful Links
http://www.climate-charts.com/Locations/p/PC58606.php
Eating Out in Nanchang
Nanchang is a great city for food lovers. Restaurants abound on almost every street and range from pokey little holes in the wall to large and luxurious banqueting halls. People in Nanchang love to eat out and restaurants are often packed every night. Dining in a Chinese restaurant is something of a unique experience. Loud, hot and smoky is how many people like it so if you want a more peaceful environment it’s probably best to book a private room, which most restaurants have.
Some tips for eating in a Chinese restaurant in Nanchang include...
Brush up on you chopsticks technique. Most restaurants do not have knives and forks
Learn the Chinese for some dishes or take a phrase book with you. Many restaurants do not have English on their menus. That being said, quite a few restaurants do have pictures of their dishes in their menus whilst in others you go to a display area and simply point to what you want.
Be prepared to dine early. Most people here begin their evening meal at 6pm and by 8.30 most restaurants will be deserted. If you hang around much later than this you’ll not be flavor of the month with the staff.
If you want to eat later there are options. Many hotpot restaurants stay open until the early hours of the morning, and quite a few restaurants re-open later in the evening to serve night snacks.
If you really don’t like spicy food always check with the staff whether a dish is spicy or not. Even if you are told it’s only a little spicy you may still find it too hot. Best to say you don’t want any at all. Even then you’ll probably still get some, but at least it should be bearable.
Local food in Nanchang
The traditional local cuisine is Nanchang Cuisine (Gan Cuisine), which is characterized by hot and spicy flavors. The chili pepper is one of the most important ingredients in local dishes and is often used as a vegetable in its own right rather than as just a flavoring. Douchi (fermented black beans) is also widely used. As with the rest of China, pork is the primary meat that is used, though freshwater fish is also very common due to the numbers of rivers and lakes throughout Jiangxi province. Be warned however that fish is usually served intact, complete with head and all bones. Tofu is another popular ingredient in Gan cuisine and is often served fried.
Other Chinese regional cuisines in Nanchang
It is quite easy to find restaurants which specialize in other Chinese regional cuisines, though Northern cuisines are not very well represented.
Western Food in Nanchang
Not too long ago visitors to Nanchang would’ve been hard pressed to find any western food outside of a few top-end hotels, and even then it was probably best described as 'western food with Chinese characteristics'. The situation has improved in recent years though and it is now much easier to find good quality western food. Western fast-food chains have sprung up throughout the city with KFC being particularly common. Many of the large coffee houses have western food on their menus and there are now a few small restaurants with western chefs. Some of the larger hotels offer western buffets and Brazilian BBQ as well as a la carte menus. Nevertheless, Nanchang is not Shanghai or Beijing and the quality and authenticity of western food here can still be a bit hit-and-miss.
Other International Cuisines in Nanchang
Besides western food, Thai and Japanese food are becoming easier to find with more restaurants opening every year. Korean BBQ is another option. Mongolian hotpot is also available, though some may argue that it should be classed as Chinese food rather than foreign.
Vegetarians
According to How To Order Chinese Food Dot Com "Vegetarianism is not widespread in China, and with cooking variances from region to region, restaurant to restaurant, and even cook to cook, there is no way to be sure what you ordering will be completely meatless unless you ask. The following dishes should give you a good start, but be sure to tell the waitress 不放肉。 我吃素 (bu2 fang4 rou4. wo3 chi1 su4) which means "don't add meat, I'm a vegetarian." Note, even if you ask for food in this matter, it is likely your dish was cooked in the same wok, and possibly the same oil as a meat dish minutes earlier, which may or may not be a problem depending on your degree of vegetarianism."
For a list of common non-meat dishes click here
Locations
Some streets in Nanchang are well known for the number of restaurants they contain. In addition, similar types of restaurants can often be found in close proximity to each other. In fact there are restaurants on probably every avenue, road and back alley in the city. Some noteable locations though are...
Ruzi Lu. Probably Nanchang’s first restaurant street, Ru Zi Lu is still a popular destination for locals with many large restaurants serving mostly local cuisine.
Hama Jie. Particularly noted for it's concentration of hotpot restaurants.
Useful Links
How To Order Chinese Food Dot Com
Language
Chinese
If you have studied Chinese you may find it frustrating that during your travels around the country you are still unable to understand what the people around you are saying. One of the main reasons for this is that there are many dialects spoken in China, and Nanchang, like most cities, has its own. Although the official language of Putonghua (Mandarin Chinese) is the language taught in schools all over China including Nanchang, Nanchanghua (Nanchangese) is used widely by the locals.
Nanchanghua is distinctly different from Mandarin and belongs to the Gan family of dialects (named after the short name of Jiangxi province through which the River Gan flows). However, most people in Nanchang can also speak Mandarin so there’s actually no need to worry. Nevertheless, amongst themselves many locals prefer to use their own dialect, so if you are staying in Nanchang for quite a while it may be worth picking up a little of the local language and it isn’t actually that difficult to collect a few phrases.
English
English is not commonly spoken beyond a few well worn phrases such as “How are you?” though many younger people, thanks to China’s emphasis on English in schools, can communicate with foreigners to an extent. Be prepared to encounter quite a lot of ‘Chinglish’ (Chinese-English) if you are communicating in English. This is not too much of a problem as it is usually quite intelligible. The problem is more likely to be that you find it difficult to make yourself understood. You may find that you need to slow down and simplify your use of English. That being said though, there are quite a few people who can speak excellent English and it is not difficult to meet such people.
Other languages
It is even more difficult to find speakers of other languages, with the possible exception of Japanese. French and German are taught in some of the city’s universities but the number of students is quite small and the subjects are relatively new so it will be nigh on impossible to find anyone except a few students and teachers who can speak these languages.
Learning Chinese
The number of foreigners studying Chinese in Nanchang is increasing every year. Most of them, if not all, study in one of the city’s universities. There are currently no schools offering evening, weekend or part-time courses though this may change soon as the number of long-term expats is growing. At present, those who do not wish to study full time usually find a language partner who teaches Chinese in return for learning English.
Useful Links
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gan_(linguistics)
If you have studied Chinese you may find it frustrating that during your travels around the country you are still unable to understand what the people around you are saying. One of the main reasons for this is that there are many dialects spoken in China, and Nanchang, like most cities, has its own. Although the official language of Putonghua (Mandarin Chinese) is the language taught in schools all over China including Nanchang, Nanchanghua (Nanchangese) is used widely by the locals.
Nanchanghua is distinctly different from Mandarin and belongs to the Gan family of dialects (named after the short name of Jiangxi province through which the River Gan flows). However, most people in Nanchang can also speak Mandarin so there’s actually no need to worry. Nevertheless, amongst themselves many locals prefer to use their own dialect, so if you are staying in Nanchang for quite a while it may be worth picking up a little of the local language and it isn’t actually that difficult to collect a few phrases.
English
English is not commonly spoken beyond a few well worn phrases such as “How are you?” though many younger people, thanks to China’s emphasis on English in schools, can communicate with foreigners to an extent. Be prepared to encounter quite a lot of ‘Chinglish’ (Chinese-English) if you are communicating in English. This is not too much of a problem as it is usually quite intelligible. The problem is more likely to be that you find it difficult to make yourself understood. You may find that you need to slow down and simplify your use of English. That being said though, there are quite a few people who can speak excellent English and it is not difficult to meet such people.
Other languages
It is even more difficult to find speakers of other languages, with the possible exception of Japanese. French and German are taught in some of the city’s universities but the number of students is quite small and the subjects are relatively new so it will be nigh on impossible to find anyone except a few students and teachers who can speak these languages.
Learning Chinese
The number of foreigners studying Chinese in Nanchang is increasing every year. Most of them, if not all, study in one of the city’s universities. There are currently no schools offering evening, weekend or part-time courses though this may change soon as the number of long-term expats is growing. At present, those who do not wish to study full time usually find a language partner who teaches Chinese in return for learning English.
Useful Links
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gan_(linguistics)
Nanchang's Famous Sons and Daughters
With such a long history, Nanchang has its fair share of famous people, from artists, poets and scholars to politicians, athletes and rock stars. Here we'll introduce some of Nanchang's most famous sons and daughters.
Xu Ruzi 徐孺子
Famous scholar of the Eastern Han Dynasty (25-220). Also known as the Nanzhou Hermit. The Ruzi Pavilion Park in Nanchang’s West Lake commemorates Xu Ruzi. During the Southern Tang Dynasty, locals built Ruzi Terrace in his memory, and later built the pavilion during the Qing Dynasty.
Ruzi Lu, one of Nanchang's main thoroghfares is named in his honor.
Links
Art Gallery NSW
QingYunPu Govt site
Deng Wan 邓琬（407—466）
Huang Tingjian 黄庭堅 (1045—1105),
Calligrapher, painter and poet. He is generally regarded as the finest and most creative calligrapher of the Song Dynasty.
Links
Wikipedia
www.arthistoryarchive.com
Wang Dayuan 汪大渊
14th century (Yuan Dynasty) traveller and explorer.
Links
Wikipedia
Wei Liangfu 魏良辅 (1489—1566）
Musician and creator of a new style of music known as Kunqu which was based on southern folk and popular melodies.
Links
http://zhongguoxiju.com
Peng Bo 彭勃, (1981 - )
Diver and Olympic gold medalist. Gold in the 2004 Summer Olympics.
Links
Wikipedia
Luo Qi 罗琦
Rock musician, hailed as the No.1 female rock singer in China
Links
http://www.luoqi-music.com/en_index.htm
YouTube
Xu Ruzi 徐孺子
Famous scholar of the Eastern Han Dynasty (25-220). Also known as the Nanzhou Hermit. The Ruzi Pavilion Park in Nanchang’s West Lake commemorates Xu Ruzi. During the Southern Tang Dynasty, locals built Ruzi Terrace in his memory, and later built the pavilion during the Qing Dynasty.
Ruzi Lu, one of Nanchang's main thoroghfares is named in his honor.
Links
Art Gallery NSW
QingYunPu Govt site
Deng Wan 邓琬（407—466）
Huang Tingjian 黄庭堅 (1045—1105),
Calligrapher, painter and poet. He is generally regarded as the finest and most creative calligrapher of the Song Dynasty.
Links
Wikipedia
www.arthistoryarchive.com
Wang Dayuan 汪大渊
14th century (Yuan Dynasty) traveller and explorer.
Links
Wikipedia
Wei Liangfu 魏良辅 (1489—1566）
Musician and creator of a new style of music known as Kunqu which was based on southern folk and popular melodies.
Links
http://zhongguoxiju.com
Peng Bo 彭勃, (1981 - )
Diver and Olympic gold medalist. Gold in the 2004 Summer Olympics.
Links
Wikipedia
Luo Qi 罗琦
Rock musician, hailed as the No.1 female rock singer in China
Links
http://www.luoqi-music.com/en_index.htm
YouTube
Fairy Maiden Lake
Fairy Maiden Lake scenic area is located in the southwest of Jiangxi 's Xinyu City. The area covers a total of 179 square kilometers, 50 of which are water, and has three major scenic spots. In the east is the Wulong Lake scenic area which contains more than 100 scenic islands as well as reservoirs, dozens of harbors, and cultivated forests. In the middle is the Zhongshan Gorge scenic area with steep mountains and a strong current. The western region has the Chu Yang scenic area.
Have you visited Fairy Maiden Lake? Leave your reviews in the comments section.
Have you visited Fairy Maiden Lake? Leave your reviews in the comments section.
Sanbai Mountain
Sanbai Mountain scenic area is located in the south of Anyuan near Ganzhou and covers an area of 200 square kilometers. Sanbai Mountain is a National Park of China, which contains the remains of ancient volcanoes and the resulting lakes are well preserved. The area is also the source of Dongjiang River, and visitors can enjoy up to 100 waterfalls in addition to well preserved evergreen broad-leaved forests (the coverage rate is 98%, which is rarely seen in the south of China) and clear, fresh air, as well as numerous rare birds and animals. Hot springs are also very famous in the area. Finally, Hakka Weiwu (traditional buildings of the Hakka nationality) are much in evidence with Sanbai Mountain National Park holding about 100 Weiwu.
Have you visited Sanbai Mountain? Leave your reviews in the comments section.
Have you visited Sanbai Mountain? Leave your reviews in the comments section.
Liukeng Village
Liukeng village, considered as “The First Ancient Village”, is located near the Wujiang River southwest of Niutain town, Le’an County. The ancient buildings of Liukeng village are characteristic of Jiangxi’s architectural style and many have been preserved completely.
For a detailed introduction to Liukeng Village click here http://www.chinavista.com/experience/liukeng/liukeng.html
Have you visited Liukeng Village? Leave your reviews in the comments section.
For a detailed introduction to Liukeng Village click here http://www.chinavista.com/experience/liukeng/liukeng.html
Have you visited Liukeng Village? Leave your reviews in the comments section.
Tongtian Cliff Grottoes
Tongtian Cliff Grottoes are located northwest of Ganzhou, about 10 kilometers from the city. The grottoes, a famous scenic spot and popular summer destination, are well known for their collection of ancient grotto art and hold the largest complex of cliff grottos in Jiangxi Province, with almost 300 stone cases in the cliff-side and 359 stone Buddhas, most of which were carved during the Tang and Song dynasties. The sculptures are considered to be representative of the art of carving in China.
The Scenic Area of Tongtian Cliff includes Tongtian Cliff, Wanggui Cliff, Tongxin Cliff, and Cuiwei Cliff.
Tongtian (which means ‘Reaching the Sky’) Cliff has a cave with a hole leading to the cliff's summit. With over 300 statues of Buddha, the cliff has been a famous place for Buddhists for centuries. Originally, there were 116 inscriptions at Tongtian Rock and Wanggui Cliff, but only 97 remain. The inscriptions are not only records of the local history but also treasures of the ancient calligraphic arts. Wanggui Cliff is also called Lion Cliff because it is shaped like a lion. Between the cliffs are many statues in stone niches and cliffside inscriptions. East of Wanggui Cliff is Tongxin Cliff which is decorated with carvings of dragons and tigers which line one side of the cliff.
Have you visited Tongtian Cliff Grottoes? Leave your reviews in the comments section.
The Scenic Area of Tongtian Cliff includes Tongtian Cliff, Wanggui Cliff, Tongxin Cliff, and Cuiwei Cliff.
Tongtian (which means ‘Reaching the Sky’) Cliff has a cave with a hole leading to the cliff's summit. With over 300 statues of Buddha, the cliff has been a famous place for Buddhists for centuries. Originally, there were 116 inscriptions at Tongtian Rock and Wanggui Cliff, but only 97 remain. The inscriptions are not only records of the local history but also treasures of the ancient calligraphic arts. Wanggui Cliff is also called Lion Cliff because it is shaped like a lion. Between the cliffs are many statues in stone niches and cliffside inscriptions. East of Wanggui Cliff is Tongxin Cliff which is decorated with carvings of dragons and tigers which line one side of the cliff.
Have you visited Tongtian Cliff Grottoes? Leave your reviews in the comments section.
Sheng Jin Tower
The oldest building in the city, dating back to the Qing Dynasty, Sheng Jin Ta (Rope and Gold Pagoda) is named after a legend that when the temple was being built an iron box was found containing four bundles of golden ropes, 300 luminous Sarira stones and three ancient swords. The golden ropes were said to have been sold to fund the building of the temple while the other artifacts were installed within it after construction was completed.
The grounds of this Pagoda have recently been extended and renovated, as has the tower itself. The streets surrounding the pagoda have been reconstructed in a traditional style and two great stone archways have been constructed, one on Zhan Qian Xi Lu and the other on Fu He Lu. The surrounding area plays host to a temple fair held annually in November
The octagonal pagoda itself is 59 meters high. Its seven stories high are topped with a cold-plated copper tripod, reached by a spiral wooden staircase. Each of the seven floors has eight doors and sharp hand-carved eaves and cloisters.
The pagoda we can see today is a reconstruction built in 1868 during the reign of the Qing emperor Tongzhi. This was a replacement for a tower built during the reign of the Qing emperor Kangxi, which was itself a replacement for the original Tang Dynasty tower. The tripod which stands atop the pagoda was first installed during the reign of the Qing emperor Qianlong as a means with which to prevent fire in the city, a frequent problem in those times. The tripod is inscribed with the words “Shui Huo Ji Ji, Zuo Zhen Jiang Cheng” meaning that it and the tower will protect the city from fire. It is said that if Sheng Jin tower falls, so too will Nanchang.
Near the Tower there is a temple known as Tianfo Temple, or alternatively as Taxia Temple. The temple and the pagoda were built at the same time. In the front of the temple, there is a moon-like pond called Fangsheng Pond. Legend states that if you set an animal free in the pond then your wishes will come true.
Have you visited Sheng Jin Tower? Leave your reviews in the comments section.
The grounds of this Pagoda have recently been extended and renovated, as has the tower itself. The streets surrounding the pagoda have been reconstructed in a traditional style and two great stone archways have been constructed, one on Zhan Qian Xi Lu and the other on Fu He Lu. The surrounding area plays host to a temple fair held annually in November
The octagonal pagoda itself is 59 meters high. Its seven stories high are topped with a cold-plated copper tripod, reached by a spiral wooden staircase. Each of the seven floors has eight doors and sharp hand-carved eaves and cloisters.
The pagoda we can see today is a reconstruction built in 1868 during the reign of the Qing emperor Tongzhi. This was a replacement for a tower built during the reign of the Qing emperor Kangxi, which was itself a replacement for the original Tang Dynasty tower. The tripod which stands atop the pagoda was first installed during the reign of the Qing emperor Qianlong as a means with which to prevent fire in the city, a frequent problem in those times. The tripod is inscribed with the words “Shui Huo Ji Ji, Zuo Zhen Jiang Cheng” meaning that it and the tower will protect the city from fire. It is said that if Sheng Jin tower falls, so too will Nanchang.
Near the Tower there is a temple known as Tianfo Temple, or alternatively as Taxia Temple. The temple and the pagoda were built at the same time. In the front of the temple, there is a moon-like pond called Fangsheng Pond. Legend states that if you set an animal free in the pond then your wishes will come true.
Have you visited Sheng Jin Tower? Leave your reviews in the comments section.
Bada Shan Ren Museum
Name：Ba Da Shan Ren Museum (八大山人纪念馆)
Address：259 Qing Yun Pu Road, Nanchang Jiangxi (江西省南昌市青云谱路259号 联系)
Also known as The Former Residence of Bada Shanren, this museum was once a thousand year old temple called Qingyunpu before the artist moved there in 1661. Many people consider this tranquil museum to be one of the most relaxing places in Nanchang, located as it is in the suburbs south of the city far removed from the crowds and the traffic. The area surrounding the museum has recently been landscaped to form a large park where visitors can wander under willow trees or picnic by the lake. The museum itself is a wonderful example of a courtyard house, and is now home to exhibitions of Bada Shanren's calligraphy, paintings and poems.
Bada Shanren (1626-1705) was actually born as Zhu Da and was a descendant of the first emperor of the Ming Dynasty. His family, the Yiyang branch of the Ming imperial family, was noted for producing scholars, poets and calligraphers so it is not surprising that Zhu Da himself was considered to be a child prodigy and began painting and writing poems in his early childhood.
Although his early years were lived in comfort and privilege his world fell apart in the 1640s with the Manchu invasion of Ming dynasty China. As the Manchus pushed south in their efforts to wipe out resistance Zhu Da sought refuge in a Buddhist temple where he later became a monk and took on the name Chuanqi. In about 1680 however he renounced his status as a monk and once more took up his brush in order to support himself. In 1684 he took on the name Bada Shanren (八大山人 "Mountain Man of the Eight Greats"). Bada Shanren, as he is now known, remained a staunch loyalist of the Ming throughout his life and often used his paintings as a means with which to protest the overthrow of the Ming dynasty and the installation of the Manchu Qing dynasty in its place.
As a leading painter of the Qing dynasty, Bada Shanren’s works had a profound influence on the direction Chinese painting took from the late 17th century onward. His style, known as Shui Mo Hua, (水墨畫), is a type of brush painting which utilizes various concentrations of black ink and wash. He combined this with his trademark sharp freehand brush strokes to produce some of the boldest and most enigmatic paintings to have ever been created by a Chinese artist up to that period. He is also considered as one of the earliest, if not the first, abstract painter in China.
For more on the style and influence of Bada Shanren see
http://www.zhuweiartden.com/ZW/Articles/Article3.htm
Other links
http://www.metmuseum.org/toah/hd/chin/ho_L.1997.30.htm
http://www.chinapage.com/painting/badashanren/badashanren.html
Address：259 Qing Yun Pu Road, Nanchang Jiangxi (江西省南昌市青云谱路259号 联系)
Also known as The Former Residence of Bada Shanren, this museum was once a thousand year old temple called Qingyunpu before the artist moved there in 1661. Many people consider this tranquil museum to be one of the most relaxing places in Nanchang, located as it is in the suburbs south of the city far removed from the crowds and the traffic. The area surrounding the museum has recently been landscaped to form a large park where visitors can wander under willow trees or picnic by the lake. The museum itself is a wonderful example of a courtyard house, and is now home to exhibitions of Bada Shanren's calligraphy, paintings and poems.
Bada Shanren (1626-1705) was actually born as Zhu Da and was a descendant of the first emperor of the Ming Dynasty. His family, the Yiyang branch of the Ming imperial family, was noted for producing scholars, poets and calligraphers so it is not surprising that Zhu Da himself was considered to be a child prodigy and began painting and writing poems in his early childhood.
Although his early years were lived in comfort and privilege his world fell apart in the 1640s with the Manchu invasion of Ming dynasty China. As the Manchus pushed south in their efforts to wipe out resistance Zhu Da sought refuge in a Buddhist temple where he later became a monk and took on the name Chuanqi. In about 1680 however he renounced his status as a monk and once more took up his brush in order to support himself. In 1684 he took on the name Bada Shanren (八大山人 "Mountain Man of the Eight Greats"). Bada Shanren, as he is now known, remained a staunch loyalist of the Ming throughout his life and often used his paintings as a means with which to protest the overthrow of the Ming dynasty and the installation of the Manchu Qing dynasty in its place.
As a leading painter of the Qing dynasty, Bada Shanren’s works had a profound influence on the direction Chinese painting took from the late 17th century onward. His style, known as Shui Mo Hua, (水墨畫), is a type of brush painting which utilizes various concentrations of black ink and wash. He combined this with his trademark sharp freehand brush strokes to produce some of the boldest and most enigmatic paintings to have ever been created by a Chinese artist up to that period. He is also considered as one of the earliest, if not the first, abstract painter in China.
For more on the style and influence of Bada Shanren see
http://www.zhuweiartden.com/ZW/Articles/Article3.htm
Other links
http://www.metmuseum.org/toah/hd/chin/ho_L.1997.30.htm
http://www.chinapage.com/painting/badashanren/badashanren.html
Nanchang Uprising Museum
The August 1st Nanchang Uprising Museum, also known as The Former Headquarters of the Nanchang Uprising, lies at the site of the August 1st Nanchang Uprising Headquarters (the former Jiangxi Great Hotel). The museum is a Chinese revolutionary memorial in memory of the Nanchang Uprising led by the Chinese Communist Party on August 1, 1927.
The memorial was founded in 1956 and opened to the public in 1959. In 2007, in memory of the 80th anniversary of the Nanchang Uprising, this museum was rebuilt on a large scale.
The museum is conveniently located in the city centre on ZhongShan Lu
The memorial was founded in 1956 and opened to the public in 1959. In 2007, in memory of the 80th anniversary of the Nanchang Uprising, this museum was rebuilt on a large scale.
The museum is conveniently located in the city centre on ZhongShan Lu
Former Residence of Zhu De
Located just off Minde Lu, this small, two-storey building was once the residence of the first Vice-President of the People’s Republic of China during his time as a revolutionary leader in Nanchang. The building is now a museum.
Zhu De is regarded as the founder of the Chinese Red Army. For more on the life and career of Zhu De click here.
Zhu De is regarded as the founder of the Chinese Red Army. For more on the life and career of Zhu De click here.
Wednesday, 8 April 2009
Jiangxi Cuisine - Restaurants
General Pot Restaurant, 106 Yuzhang Back Street, 0791-6808897
锅将军酒店, 豫章后街106号 Guo jiang jun jiu dian, Yu zhang hou jie 106 hao
Hong deng ji Restaurant, 306 Shanghai Road, 0791-8321779
红灯记主题餐厅, 上海路306号 Hong deng ji zhu ti can ting, Shang hai lu 306 hao
Taste Collection Restaurant, 101 Huanhu Road, 0791-8855068
江湖味道大酒店, 环湖路101号, Jiang hu wei dao da jiu dian, Huan hu lu 101 hao
Gan cai xuan, 269 Dieshan Road, 0791-6805777
赣彩轩, 叠山路269号, Gan cai xuan, Die shan lu 269 hao
Nan chang ren jia Restaurant, 148 Ruzi Road, 0791-6292777
南昌人家饭店, 孺子路148号, Nan chang ren jia fan dian, Ru zi lu 148 hao
Fan shi gang Restaurant, 302 Yangming Road, 0791-6811078
饭是钢酒楼, 阳明路302号, Fan shi gang jiu lou, Yang ming lu 302 hao
Jia jia cu liang Restaurant, 574 Beijing Road West, 0791-8511997
家家粗粮酒店, 北京西路574号, Jia jia cu liang jiu dian , Bei jing xi lu 574 hao
0791 New Concept Jiangxi Cuisine, 55 Fuzhou Road, 0791-6263333
0791赣菜新概念, 福州路55号，0791 Gan cai xin gai nian， Fu zhou lu 55 hao
Chai mi you yan，255 Erqi Road，0791-6373560
柴米油盐，二七路255号，Chai mi you yan，Er qi lu 255 hao
Oriental Restaurant，150 Rongmen Road，0791-6709999
东方酒楼，榕门路150号，Dong fang jiu lou，Rong men lu 150 hao
Yu tu Restaurant，168 Ruzi Road，0791-6257136
玉兔饭庄，孺子路168号，Yu tu fan zhuang，Ru zi lu 168 hao
New Oriental Restaurant，18 Binjiang Road South，0791-6709999
新东方大酒店，滨江南路18号，Xin dong fang da jiu dian，Bin jiang nan lu 18 hao
Yi wei ling xian，62 Hongdu Avenue Middle，0791-8590007
一味领先，洪都中大道62号，Yi wei ling xian，Hong du zhong da dao 62 hao
Du yi chu Restaurant，58-92 Rongmen Road，0791-6705555 0791-6706666
独一处寿福城，榕门路58-92号，Du yi chu fu shou cheng，Rong men lu 58-92 hao
Gan shao wang Restaurant，78 Beijing Road East，0791-8317177
赣烧王酒店，北京东路78号，Gan shao wang jiu dian，Bei jing dong lu 78 hao
Far East Restaurant，95 Fuzhou Road，0791-6218888 0791-6787878
远东大酒店，福州路95号，Yuan dong da jiu dian，Fu zhou lu 95 hao
Jia chang fan Restaurant，659 Hongcheng Road，0791-6533777
红常饭，洪城路659号，Jia chang fan，Hong cheng lu 659 hao
Hao kou fu，158 Beijing Road East，0791-8315366
好口福，北京东路158号，Hao kou fu，Bei jing dong lu 158 hao
Zao wang ye Restaurant，289 Zhanqian Road West，0791-6491199
灶王爷酒楼，站前西路289号，Zao wang ye jiu lou，Zhan qian xi lu 289 hao
Hao kou fu，1136 Zhongshan Avene West，0791-3558441
好口福，中山大道西1136号，Hao kou fu，Zhong shan da dao xi 1136 hao
Have you eaten at any of the restaurants above? Leave your reviews in the comments section.
Useful Links for English Teachers
Here's a list of links to websites which might be of use if you're teaching English.
http://middlekingdomlife.com/guide/index.htm
http://www.onestopenglish.com/
http://www.idebate.org/
http://waze.net/oea
www.bbc.co.uk/worldservice/learningenglish
www.bbc.co.uk/china/learningenglish
www.britishcouncil.org/central.htm
http://www.breakingnewsenglish.com/
http://iteslj.org/questions/
http://esl.about.com/
http://www.speech-topics-help.com/index.html
http://www.englishclub.com/
http://www.eslcafe.com/
If you know of any other useful websites please leave a link in the comments section.
Have you used any of these websites? Leave your reviews in the comments section.
http://middlekingdomlife.com/guide/index.htm
http://www.onestopenglish.com/
http://www.idebate.org/
http://waze.net/oea
www.bbc.co.uk/worldservice/learningenglish
www.bbc.co.uk/china/learningenglish
www.britishcouncil.org/central.htm
http://www.breakingnewsenglish.com/
http://iteslj.org/questions/
http://esl.about.com/
http://www.speech-topics-help.com/index.html
http://www.englishclub.com/
http://www.eslcafe.com/
If you know of any other useful websites please leave a link in the comments section.
Have you used any of these websites? Leave your reviews in the comments section.
Xishan Longevity Palace
Located at the foot of Xiaoyao Mountain, Xishan Longevity Palace has a history of over 1700 years and is one of the most famous palaces south of the Yangtze.
A temple was set up on the site to worship Taoist god XuXun, who was the founder of the Pure Brightness sect of Taoism and Xishan Longevity Palace is one of the largest Taoist holy palaces in China. According to Taoist belief, once XuXun attained the Way and became immortal over 40 members of his family ascended to heaven.
Included in the palace is a well in which XuXun is said to have trapped the Flood Dragon
Originally a temple, in the Song Dynasty it was upgraded to a palace. The site has been destroyed and rebuilt many times, with the present palace undergoing major rebuilding and renovation in 1983.
Xishan Longevity Palace is located in about 35 km southwest of Nanchang in Xinjian county.
A temple was set up on the site to worship Taoist god XuXun, who was the founder of the Pure Brightness sect of Taoism and Xishan Longevity Palace is one of the largest Taoist holy palaces in China. According to Taoist belief, once XuXun attained the Way and became immortal over 40 members of his family ascended to heaven.
Included in the palace is a well in which XuXun is said to have trapped the Flood Dragon
Originally a temple, in the Song Dynasty it was upgraded to a palace. The site has been destroyed and rebuilt many times, with the present palace undergoing major rebuilding and renovation in 1983.
Xishan Longevity Palace is located in about 35 km southwest of Nanchang in Xinjian county.
For more on XuXun click here
Have you visited Xishan Longevity Palace? Leave your reviews in the comments section.
Tuesday, 7 April 2009
Bars & Clubs
Bars & Clubs at Hengmao: Hengmao is a large residential and commercial complex located just south of BaYi Square, slap bang in the centre of Nanchang. It is probably the most popular destination for nightlife in Nanchang and has a number of bars and nightclubs along a pedestrian road often referred to as Hengmao bar street. The easiest way to arrive there is via Dinggong Lu.
Grammy Bar - a large nightclub
CK bar
Hotel California - Although rather dark inside, Hotel California is quite a popular place. Most of the customers are Chinese though you can find foreigners there on occassion. There is an outdoors seating area, and live music inside every night. The owner, David Wang, speaks excellent English. To recieve a 20% discount on beers and red wine just leave your phone number behind the bar.
Escape Bar - Probably the most popular expat bar in Nanchang. The staff all speak excellent English, as do the owners Sarah and Jerry. A great place in summer with an outdoor seating area.
Bars and clubs on Rongmen Lu: Rongmen Lu is a small tree-lined street just off Minde Lu in downtown Nanchang. The past five years has seen an increase in the number of bars on this road.
Base Bar -
YoYo Bar -
Old house Bar -
Bars and Clubs on Chuanshan Lu: There are a number of small bars located on Chuanshan Lu
BC Bar - A small bar with two floors, the upper floor having a private room and a pool table.
May Bar -
Bars and Clubs on Ruzi Lu: Ruzi Lu is best known for restaurants, but there are a few nightspots here.
Tata Bar - A small bar with mostly Chinese customers
BMW Club - A large nightclub
Grammy Bar - a large nightclub
CK bar
Hotel California - Although rather dark inside, Hotel California is quite a popular place. Most of the customers are Chinese though you can find foreigners there on occassion. There is an outdoors seating area, and live music inside every night. The owner, David Wang, speaks excellent English. To recieve a 20% discount on beers and red wine just leave your phone number behind the bar.
Escape Bar - Probably the most popular expat bar in Nanchang. The staff all speak excellent English, as do the owners Sarah and Jerry. A great place in summer with an outdoor seating area.
Bars and clubs on Rongmen Lu: Rongmen Lu is a small tree-lined street just off Minde Lu in downtown Nanchang. The past five years has seen an increase in the number of bars on this road.
Base Bar -
YoYo Bar -
Old house Bar -
Bars and Clubs on Chuanshan Lu: There are a number of small bars located on Chuanshan Lu
BC Bar - A small bar with two floors, the upper floor having a private room and a pool table.
May Bar -
Bars and Clubs on Ruzi Lu: Ruzi Lu is best known for restaurants, but there are a few nightspots here.
Tata Bar - A small bar with mostly Chinese customers
BMW Club - A large nightclub
Western Restaurants
The number of western restaurants in Nanchang continues to grow. Most of the western restaurants are best described as western food with Chinese characteristics, but there are a couple of places that actually offer authentic western food.
- Detox - Address: Hengmao Star Walk, Dinggong Lu 丁公路，恒茂酒吧街
Tel: (0791)
British chef Kyle Knight serves a variety of British, French, Italian and fusion cuisine. The staff are welcoming and speak excellent English. - LeBistro 100 - Address: 100 Rongmen Lu Tel: (0791) 6100 100 Owned by American chef Justin Garcia, LeBistro 100 serves French cuisine in a cosy setting.
- B.R.O. Pizza - Address: Hengmao Star Walk, Dingong Lu 丁公路， Tel:(0791) Serves pasta and pizza. Has a patio area during the summer months.
- B.R.O. Pizza - Address: Beijing Road West Tel:(0791) Larger than B.R.O. at Hengmao, but without an outdoor patio.
Have you eaten at any of the restaurants above? Leave your reviews in the comments section.
If you know of any other Western food restaurants which should be included here email us at 0791life@gmail.com
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