Sanbai Mountain Scenic Area is located in Anyuan County, Ganzhou City, Jiangxi Province. It is a national 5A-level tourist attraction, national scenic area, and national forest park. Covering 197 square kilometers with its main peak at 1,169 meters, it's the source of Dongjiang River - the drinking water origin for Hong Kong compatriots. Featuring "primeval forests, peculiar peaks, and clear waterfalls", its 98% forest coverage and high negative oxygen ion concentration earn it the reputation "natural oxygen bar".
History and Culture
With profound history, Sanbai Mountain attracted literati since Song Dynasty. Ming geographer Xu Xiake recorded its "majestic peaks and lush forests". In Qing Dynasty, Anyuan County established water source protection steles here, pioneering ecological conservation.
As Dongjiang River's origin supplying Hong Kong and Shenzhen, it's called "source of Hong Kong compatriots' drinking water". In 1996, Hong Kong SAR Preparatory Committee erected a "Gratitude for Water Source" stele here, symbolizing mainland-Hong Kong bonds.
The area preserves Ming-Qing ancient trails, bridges, and traditional Hakka lifestyles, making it important for Hakka culture studies. It's also a revolutionary base with Red Army battle sites.
Main Attractions
Dongjiang Source
The core attraction at 800m altitude where a spring forms waterfalls eventually becoming Dongjiang River. The "Gratitude for Water Source" stele stands here. The sweet, drinkable water flows through ancient trees in serene surroundings - an important patriotic education site.
Zhiyin Waterfall
This three-tiered 120m-drop waterfall sounds like zither music, hence its name "Knowing-the-Tune Spring". Powerful in summer, silvery in winter, it forms clear pools with ideal viewing platforms.
Fu'ao Pond
This 200-mu (13-hectare) alpine lake at 850m resembles a giant turtle (ao) in fairyland-like misty surroundings. Lakeside boardwalks and pavilions offer leisurely strolls.
Dongfeng Lake
The 5-sq-km artificial lake with islands provides "green-mountain-reflected" scenery. Resorts and water sports centers offer boating and fishing. Its abundant fish are delicious.
Primeval Forest
Covering 100+ sq km with 98% forest coverage, this "natural botanical garden" has ancient trees including rare species like southern yew and ginkgo. Its high oxygen concentration makes it perfect for forest bathing.
Cuisine
Anyuan Three-Delicacy Noodles
This local specialty combines quality rice noodles with pork, liver, and intestines in bone broth. Many scenic area restaurants serve it.
Dongjiang Fish
From pristine Dongjiang waters, these tender fish are best steamed to preserve original flavor, though braised or souped versions also delight. Lakeside restaurants specialize in them.
Hakka Stuffed Tofu
A traditional Hakka dish with minced meat stuffed in tofu, pan-fried then braised - crispy outside, juicy inside, showcasing Hakka culinary wisdom.
Nearby Cuisine
Ganzhou also offers Southern Jiangxi stir-fried fish, Hebao cured meat, and rice-skin rolls worth trying after mountain tours.
Ticket Information
Admission: 80 yuan (includes main sites). Sightseeing bus: 30 yuan. Boat: 50 yuan. Students/seniors get discounts. Hours: 8:00-17:30 (peak season), 8:30-17:00 (off season).
Recommended Itinerary
One-day suggestion: Morning - Dongjiang Source and Zhiyin Waterfall; Lunch - scenic area restaurant; Afternoon - Dongfeng Lake cruise and forest walk. Two-day option adds deeper exploration of Fu'ao Pond etc.
Transportation
- Airplane: Nearest is Ganzhou Huangjin Airport (~160km away)
- High-speed rail: To Ganzhou West Station, then tourist shuttle (~2 hours)
- Self-driving: ~2.5 hours from Ganzhou via Xiaron and Ningding Expressways
- Internal transport: Sightseeing buses and boats connect main sites
Must-see Attractions
- Dongjiang Source: Hong Kong's water origin with commemorative stele
- Zhiyin Waterfall: Three-tiered 120m musical waterfall
- Fu'ao Pond: 850m-high alpine lake in fairyland setting
- Dongfeng Lake: 5-sq-km artificial lake with picturesque islands
- Primeval Forest: 98% coverage with oxygen-rich air
Travel Tips
- Best season: April-November for pleasant weather
- Suggested duration: 1-2 days
- Wear comfortable anti-slip hiking shoes
- Prepare sun and mosquito protection
- Combo tickets save money
- Consider booking professional guide service
Precautions
- Protect water sources - no littering
- Follow rules - no entering restricted areas
- Wear life jackets when boating
- Secure personal belongings
- Bring rain gear for changeable mountain weather
- Be cautious when taking photos