Things To Do
in Guixi

Guixi (贵溪) is a county-level city in northeastern Jiangxi province, administratively under Yingtan, characterized by a mix of small-city industry, agricultural landscapes and nearby scenic hills. The town acts as a gateway to regional attractions such as Longhu Mountain and the wetlands around Poyang Lake, while retaining a quiet, local atmosphere. Streets are lined with traditional markets, modest eateries and new residential neighborhoods, offering an authentic slice of inland China away from major tourist hubs.

Travelers find easy access to regional rail and road links, making Guixi a convenient base for exploring eastern Jiangxi's nature and cultural sites.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Exploring Historic Center
morning
:

Start your day with a leisurely stroll through the old streets of Guixi, where traditional architecture and vibrant local markets await. Stop by a local tea house to savor the unique flavors of Jiangxi tea while mingling with the friendly locals. Capture the picturesque scenery around the ancient Guixi Pavilion, which offers a glimpse into the city's rich history.

afternoon
:

Visit the Guixi Museum to delve deeper into the cultural heritage of the region, showcasing artifacts that tell the story of its past. Afterward, enjoy a delicious lunch at a nearby restaurant, sampling local specialties such as rice noodles and spicy fish. Spend your afternoon exploring the quaint boutiques and artisan shops that line the streets, perfect for picking up unique souvenirs.

evening
:

As the sun sets, make your way to the scenic riverside park, where you can enjoy a peaceful walk along the water. The evening lights reflect beautifully on the river, creating a romantic atmosphere perfect for unwinding. Treat yourself to dinner at a riverside restaurant, indulging in fresh seafood while enjoying the lively ambiance.

day 2
Nature Retreat at the Donghu Scenic Area
morning
:

Begin your morning with a refreshing hike in the Donghu Scenic Area, surrounded by lush greenery and the soothing sounds of nature. As you traverse the trails, keep an eye out for the diverse wildlife that inhabits the area. Stop at a viewpoint to take in the breathtaking vistas of Donghu Lake and capture some stunning photographs.

afternoon
:

After your hike, enjoy a picnic lunch by the lake, surrounded by the serene beauty of the landscape. Spend the afternoon engaging in water activities like kayaking or paddle boating, allowing you to immerse yourself in the tranquility of the lake. Alternatively, you can relax under the shade of trees and read a book, soaking in the peaceful environment.

evening
:

As dusk approaches, take a leisurely stroll along the lake's edge, watching the vibrant colors of the sunset reflect on the water. Return to the main park area where local vendors offer a variety of snacks and drinks to enjoy as you unwind. Conclude your day with a delightful dinner at a nearby restaurant featuring local dishes, enjoying the flavors of Jiangxi cuisine.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍜Meal at inexpensive restaurant$3-6
Coffee or tea at a cafe$1.50-4
🚕Short taxi ride (within city)$1.50-4
🏨Mid-range hotel (per night)$30-60
🎟️Local attraction entry fee$2-10

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Authentic local atmosphere away from mass tourism
  • Affordable food and accommodation
  • Good access to natural attractions like Longhu Mountain and Poyang Lake
  • Easy base for exploring eastern Jiangxi and regional culture
  • Limited English and tourist infrastructure compared with major cities
  • Fewer direct flights and long travel times from major international hubs
  • Nightlife and entertainment options are modest
  • Weather can be hot and rainy in summer
  • "你好 (nǐ hǎo)" - Hello
  • "谢谢 (xièxiè)" - Thank you
  • "请问... (qǐngwèn...)" - Excuse me / May I ask...
  • "多少钱?(duōshǎo qián?)" - How much is it?
  • "厕所在哪里?(cèsuǒ zài nǎlǐ?)" - Where is the restroom?
  • "我吃素 (wǒ chī sù)" - I am vegetarian
  • "可以刷卡吗?(kěyǐ shuākǎ ma?)" - Can I pay by card?
  • "帮我拍张照可以吗?(bāng wǒ pāi zhāng zhào kěyǐ ma?)" - Could you take a photo of me?

Places to Visit in Guixi

Visit one of these nice places.

Longhu Mountain (nearby)

Spectacular Taoist temples, jagged rock formations and forested trails provide dramatic sunrise and landscape photography; best visited early to avoid crowds.

Riverside Promenade and Old Streets

Traditional street scenes, market activity and riverside life make for expressive street photography and candid portraits of local daily life.

Poyang Lake Wetlands (day trip)

Expansive wetlands and migrating waterbirds offer nature and wildlife photo opportunities, especially during migration seasons and at dawn/dusk.

Village Roads and Rice Fields

Rolling rural landscapes, seasonal planting or harvest scenes and small bridges/streams are great for pastoral shots and close-up agricultural details.

Culinary Guide

Food in Guixi

Guixi sits within Jiangxi’s culinary region, where rice, preserved and pickled vegetables, bold savory sauces and freshwater fish play important roles. Local food tends to be hearty, sometimes spicy and often relies on seasonal and river-sourced ingredients. Street snacks and small family restaurants are where you’ll find the most authentic flavors.

Guixi Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Steamed Freshwater Fish

Simple steamed or braised fish made from local rivers and lakes, often served with ginger and scallion; best found at riverside restaurants and family eateries.

Must-Try!

Gan-style Braised Pork (Hong Shao Rou)

Tender pork belly slow-braised in soy, sugar and spices — a Jiangxi classic that pairs well with plain rice and is widely available in local restaurants.

Rice Noodles and Congee

Light bowls of rice noodles or congee are common breakfasts; vendors at morning markets serve variations with pickles, preserved vegetables and shredded meat.

Pickled/Preserved Vegetables

Salted mustard greens and preserved roots are staple condiments in Jiangxi cuisine, appearing with many meals and available from markets.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Guixi Morning/Wet Market

Typical wet market selling fresh produce, live fish and poultry, tofu and breakfast stalls; ideal for trying local snacks and seeing ingredients used in daily cooking.

Night Market Stalls

Evening market area where vendors sell skewers, fried snacks, sweet pastries and local desserts — try grilled corn, fried dumplings and sesame pancakes.

Climate Guide

Weather

Guixi has a humid subtropical climate with hot, humid summers and mild, damp winters. Rainfall concentrates in late spring and early summer during the monsoon period, while autumn is generally the driest and most comfortable season. Temperatures typically range from just above freezing in cold snaps during winter to the high 20s–mid-30s °C (80s–90s °F) in summer; humidity can make summers feel hotter.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings and Respect

Polite nods, slight bows or a handshake for introductions are common. Show respect to elders and allow older people to board public transport first when appropriate.

Table Manners

Communal dishes are common — try a bit of everything if offered. It’s polite to gesture food towards others and to use serving chopsticks if provided; avoid sticking chopsticks upright in rice.

Visiting Temples

Dress modestly and speak quietly in religious sites. Follow local customs (remove hats, avoid loud photography during rituals) and respect signs restricting access.

Conversation Topics

Safe topics include food, family and local life. Avoid sensitive political topics and be cautious when discussing land or development issues with strangers.

Safety Guide

Safety

Guixi is generally safe for travelers; petty theft is the most common concern so keep valuables secure and be aware in crowded markets and transport hubs. Road safety can be an issue—watch for scooters and bicycles when crossing streets. In summer months be mindful of flooding and slippery trails after heavy rains; for hiking, follow marked paths and local advice. Have travel insurance that covers medical evacuation for serious emergencies.

Tipping in Guixi

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

Tipping is not customary in most local eateries and taxis; small tips are increasingly accepted in tourist-facing hotels and some restaurants, but are not expected. For guides or exceptional service, a modest cash thank-you is fine.

Payment Methods

Mobile payments (WeChat Pay and Alipay) dominate urban transactions, including markets and small vendors. Cash (RMB) is still widely used in rural areas; international credit cards may be accepted at larger hotels and some restaurants but less so in small shops.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild, increasingly warm weather with occasional showers; countryside becomes green and flowers bloom — a pleasant time for hikes and photography, though expect some wet days.

Summer

Hot and humid with high rainfall during the monsoon months (June–July); afternoons can be heavy with thunderstorms. Bring light clothing, waterproof gear and plan outdoor activities for mornings or evenings.

Autumn

Clearer skies, comfortable temperatures and lower humidity; arguably the best season for outdoor activities and sightseeing with good air quality and vivid foliage in higher areas.

Winter

Cool and relatively damp but not severely cold compared with northern China; occasional cold snaps and gray days — pack a warm layer and expect fewer tourists.

Nightlife Guide

Guixi at Night

Guixi's nightlife is low-key compared with larger Chinese cities: evenings center on night market snacks, teahouses, small bars and KTV (karaoke) establishments. Locals gather in the early evening for dinner, card games or mahjong and many social activities are community-based. For busier nightlife — clubs or larger live-music venues — nearby larger cities like Yingtan or Nanchang offer more options.

Hiking in Guixi

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Longhu Mountain Trails

Well-known Taoist mountain with scenic trails, temples and rock formations; trails suit a range of fitness levels and offer impressive vistas.

Poyang Lake Buffer Trails

Lowland walks and boardwalks around wetland areas ideal for birdwatching and flat, gentle hikes; best in drier seasons for access.

Local Tea Plantation Paths

Gentle trails through nearby hills and tea plots provide peaceful walks and cultural insight into local agriculture and harvest practices.

Airports

How to reach Guixi by plane.

Nanchang Changbei International Airport (KHN)

The major regional airport serving Jiangxi province; roughly a 2–3 hour drive or train ride from Guixi depending on connections — good choice for domestic and some international flights.

Jingdezhen Luojia Airport (JDZ)

Closer for eastern Jiangxi travelers (approximately 1–1.5 hours by road), with domestic connections to larger hubs; convenient for visitors combining pottery-city visits with Guixi.

Getting Around

Walkability

The central area of Guixi is reasonably walkable, with markets, shops and restaurants close together. Side streets and older lanes are pedestrian-friendly, but outskirts and scenic sites typically require a bicycle, taxi or car. Sidewalk quality can vary, so wear comfortable shoes and be cautious at night in less-lit areas.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Han Chinese

The overwhelming majority of residents are Han Chinese, speaking local Gan dialects and Mandarin for official use.

Older Rural Population

Like many smaller Chinese cities, Guixi has a noticeable population of elderly residents who live in suburban and rural villages, while younger people often move to larger cities for work.

Small Ethnic Minorities

There are small numbers of ethnic minority groups in the province, but they represent a minor portion of Guixi’s population; cultural life is predominantly Han Chinese.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Table Tennis and Badminton

Indoor racket sports are widely popular and commonly played in community centers and parks.

Basketball

Basketball courts are common and the sport is popular among youth and students.

Dragon Boat and Rowing

In areas near Poyang Lake and rivers, dragon boat activities and seasonal rowing events are traditional and locally popular.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in the town center is moderate; expect congestion during morning and evening rush hours, and local roads can be narrower than in big cities. Motorbikes and bicycles share roadspace with cars. Public transportation consists mainly of local buses and taxis; ride-hailing apps like Didi operate in the region and are convenient for visitors. Intercity travel is often handled by trains or buses to larger hubs.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Guixi.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Vegetarian options exist but can be limited; order dishes centered on seasonal vegetables, tofu and egg preparations, and request no fish sauce or meat stock. Use the phrase “我吃素 (wǒ chī sù)” to indicate vegetarianism and be explicit about avoiding meat broths.

Vegan

Vegan dining is more challenging due to frequent use of eggs, lard and meat-based broths. Carry a translation card explaining restrictions and stick to vegetable stir-fries, cold tofu dishes and simple rice or noodle preparations.

Gluten-Free

Rice-based dishes are commonly safe, but soy sauce and wheat-containing items are widespread. Ask about ingredients and avoid battered or soy-marinated foods if highly sensitive.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Basic clinics and a county hospital handle routine care and minor emergencies; for specialized treatment or serious emergencies, larger hospitals in Yingtan or Nanchang offer more advanced facilities. Pharmacies are common for over-the-counter medicines. Travelers should bring necessary prescriptions, consider travel insurance covering medical evacuation, and seek English-speaking assistance via larger regional hospitals when needed.

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