Located in Yongxiu and Wuning Counties of Jiujiang City, Jiangxi Province, Lushan West Sea is a national 5A-level tourist attraction and national scenic area. Covering 495 square kilometers (including 308 sq km water area) with 1,667 islands, it's acclaimed as "China's most beautiful lake-mountain scenery". Featuring "lake islands, hot springs, and Buddhist culture", this integrated sightseeing, leisure, and wellness destination is ecologically significant for the middle Yangtze region.
History and Culture
With profound history, Yunju Mountain's Zhenru Chan Temple (built in 808 AD) remains an important Zen Buddhism site, historically called "Cloud-dwelling Heaven, Shaolin Earth". Generations of eminent monks left rich Buddhist heritage here. Now a nationally key temple, it preserves precious stone inscriptions and scriptures.
Since ancient times, literati like Su Shi and Huang Tingjian visited and composed poetry here. Numerous cliff carvings and ancient buildings provide valuable materials for studying Chinese culture.
The current spectacular island landscape formed after Zhelin Reservoir's 1950s construction. Recently, leveraging premium landscapes and deep culture, the area has developed into comprehensive tourism integrating nature, culture and leisure.
Main Attractions
Zhenru Chan Temple on Yunju Mountain
This 1,200-year-old Tang Dynasty temple blends magnificently with the mountain. Its Ming-Qing architecture includes Mahavira Hall, Scripture Depository, and meditation rooms housing precious historical relics. The annual April 8th (lunar calendar) temple fair attracts numerous pilgrims. Ancient trees create serene surroundings ideal for spiritual cultivation.
West Sea Lake Area
The 308-sq-km lake with 1,667 islands offers crystal-clear water (9-11m visibility). Cruises reveal stunning "water-sky blending, island shadows dancing" views. Distinctive islands like Peach Blossom, Hundred Birds, and Folk Culture islands dot the lake. Water sports centers provide sailing and kayaking activities.
Lushan West Sea Hot Springs
Jiangxi's famous hot spring resort features 62-70°C mineral-rich waters (containing metasilicic acid, fluorine, lithium etc.). Multiple hot spring hotels and outdoor pools perfectly combine natural scenery with wellness. Visitors enjoy lake-mountain views while relaxing in therapeutic waters.
Zhelin Dam
This key 75.2m-high, 630m-long dam created the scenic area. Its majestic flood discharge demonstrates China's hydraulic engineering achievements. The viewing platform showcases panoramic lake views, making it an important patriotic education site.
West Sea Star Glass Observation Tower
The 99m iconic all-glass tower features a 360° viewing deck. Sunset vistas over lakes and mountains are particularly breathtaking. A café and souvenir shop complement the experience.
Cuisine
West Sea Organic Fish
Raised in pristine waters, these tender, delicious fish shine in steamed, braised or soup dishes, especially the "three-way fish" preparation (head for soup, body braised, tail steamed). Most scenic area restaurants serve this specialty.
Wuning Stick Fish
This local delicacy uses small lake fish cured, dried, and charcoal-grilled for crispy exterior and savory flavor - perfect with drinks.
Yunju Mountain Vegetarian Cuisine
With "light, fresh, elegant" principles using wild vegetables and bean products, this longstanding Buddhist culinary tradition is authentically served at the temple's dining hall.
Nearby Cuisine
Jiujiang also offers Lushan stone frog, Poyang Lake whitebait, and Jiujiang tea cakes worth trying after touring West Sea.
Ticket Information
Admission: 150 yuan (includes lake area and main sites). Boat: 80 yuan. Hot springs: from 198 yuan. Students/seniors get discounts. Hours: 8:00-17:30 (peak season), 8:30-17:00 (off season).
Recommended Itinerary
Two-day suggestion: Day 1 - lake cruise visiting islands, hot springs; Day 2 - Zhenru Temple in morning, observation tower in afternoon. One-day option focuses on lake area and temple.
Transportation
- Airplane: Nearest is Nanchang Changbei Airport (~80km away)
- High-speed rail: To Yongxiu/Wuning Station, then transfer by tourist shuttle
- Self-driving: ~1.5 hours from Nanchang via Fuyin Expressway
- Internal transport: Boats and sightseeing buses connect main attractions
Must-see Attractions
- Zhenru Chan Temple: Millennia-old key Zen Buddhism site
- West Sea Lake: 308 sq km with 1,667 picturesque islands
- Lushan West Sea Hot Springs: 62-70°C mineral-rich therapeutic waters
- Zhelin Dam: 75.2m-high hydraulic engineering marvel
- West Sea Star Tower: 99m glass tower with panoramic views
Travel Tips
- Best seasons: Spring and autumn
- Suggested duration: 2 days for in-depth experience
- Prepare sun protection - strong lake-area sunlight
- Bring swimwear for hot springs
- Combo tickets save money
- Consider booking professional guide service
Precautions
- Protect environment - no littering
- Wear life jackets when boating
- Respect religious customs - quiet in temples
- Secure personal belongings
- Limit hot spring soaking time
- Walk carefully on rainy days