Exploring Longnan: A Journey Through Hakka Walled Villages and Scenic Landscapes

🌄 1. Must-Visit Attractions Guangxi Walled Village Scenic Area Highlights: A representative of Hakka walled villages in southern Jiangxi, featuring eight uniquely styled walled villages, including Guangxi Xinwei, often referred to as the "Oriental Ancient Roman Castle." The layout is meticulous, with exquisite carvings, showcasing the defensive architectural ingenuity of the Hakka people. Tips: Located 17.3 km from the city center. It is recommended to hire a guide to learn about the history of the walled villages (approximately 2 hours for a tour). Mount Nanwudang Highlights: Known for its Danxia landform with towering peaks and rich Taoist culture (e.g., Zixiao Palace, Yuqing Palace). Hiking routes offer panoramic views of a picturesque "ten-mile gallery." Tips: Located 34 km from the city center. Best visited in spring and autumn. Tickets start at ¥58. Cable cars are available to save energy. Yangcun Yan Yi Wei (Yan Yi Walled Village) Features: A prime example of a defensive walled village with thick outer walls filled with gun holes, reflecting the Hakka spirit of resistance. Climb up for views of idyllic countryside and great photo opportunities. Transportation: Located 34.4 km from the city center. Recommended to hire a car or drive yourself. Qianxin Town & Jiulian Mountain Qianxin Town: An eco-resort offering activities like tea-making and bamboo shoot digging, ideal for family trips. Jiulian Mountain: A nature reserve with pristine forests, known as the "most beautiful forest," perfect for hiking and birdwatching. 🍜 2. Authentic Hakka Cuisine Longnan's cuisine is characterized by rustic flavors and traditional craftsmanship. Must-try dishes include: Stuffed Tofu: A signature Hakka dish with tofu stuffed with meat filling, pan-fried to a crispy exterior and tender interior. Pounded Fish: Fresh fish pounded and cooked, offering a bouncy texture. A saying goes, "No banquet is complete without pounded fish." Phoenix Eye Pearls: Made from sweet potato starch into "fish-eye" shapes, served in chicken soup for a smooth and savory taste, often seen at celebratory feasts. Street Snacks: Tangpi: Steamed for a smooth texture or fried for crispiness, with a unique alkaline aroma. Huangyuan Rice Cake: Golden yellow smoked rice cakes, available in two styles: "He Mi Ban" and "Tai Jiang Ban." Bean Jelly & Tofu Pudding: Summer cooling treats, available in sweet or savory flavors. Street Stalls: Hunt for tangpi, bean jelly, and other snacks to experience the local street food culture. 🏨 3. Accommodation Options Star Hotels: Hilton Garden Inn Ganzhou Longnan: Close to the high-speed rail station, fully equipped, starting at around ¥238 per night. Unique Inns: Qianxin Town Treehouse: Nestled in bamboo forests, offering hands-on experiences like making tofu skin and oil pressing. Walled Village Themed Inns: Stay in century-old buildings converted into courtyard-style accommodations near Guangxi Walled Village. 📅 4. Practical Tips Best Seasons: Spring and autumn (March-May, September-November) for pleasant weather. Jiulian Mountain is a great summer escape. Transportation: High-Speed Rail: The Ganzhou-Shenzhen High-Speed Rail stops at "Longnan East Station," about 1.5 hours from Shenzhen/Guangzhou. Longnan's unique charm lies in its walled villages that narrate the wisdom of Hakka culture and its landscapes that nourish the palate. Immerse yourself in the heritage and vitality of the "City of Walled Villages"!