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.

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