Explore the Wetland Paradise of China's Largest Freshwater Lake

Poyang Lake, China's largest freshwater lake and one of the world's six major wetlands, is renowned as the "Kingdom of Migratory Birds" and "World of White Cranes." The scenery varies by season: summer boasts vast lake views resembling an ocean, winter features golden grasslands and flocks of migratory birds, while spring and autumn showcase swaying reeds and blooming knotweed flowers, creating a fairy-tale landscape. --- **Must-Visit Attractions** 1. **Poyang Lake National Wetland Park** - **Key Spots**: Inner Lake (Douli Mountain, Longhou Mountain, Crane Garden, Zhuxi Three Islands) accessible by boat; Outer Lake (Xiangyouzhou) offers endless grassland views. - **Unique Experiences**: - *Wunian Island Grassland*: A stunning expanse of grassland during dry seasons, perfect for horseback riding, hiking, or aerial photography (wear red/white for photos). - *Lakeside Boardwalk*: Prime birdwatching spot, especially for swans and white cranes in autumn/winter. - *Poyang Lake Sails*: Cruise on ancient-style boats to experience centuries-old fishing culture. 2. **Nanjishan Nature Reserve (Free)** A 2-hour drive from Nanchang, this is a top birdwatching destination in autumn/winter, hosting hundreds of thousands of migratory birds like white cranes and oriental storks. 3. **Hanpokou (Within Lushan Scenic Area)** The best vantage point for panoramic lake views, often shrouded in mist like a fairyland. --- **Poyang Lake Cuisine** 1. **Whole Fish Feast** Must-try dishes: stir-fried silver fish with eggs, fish head with scallions, crispy "Canzi" fish, and "Spring Never Fades" yellow croaker. Recommended restaurants: Local farmhouses near the wetland park (¥50–80 per person). 2. **Stir-Fried Artemisia with Cured Pork** A Nanchang specialty featuring wild Poyang Lake artemisia, crisp and fragrant. 3. **Local Snacks** Try sugar cakes, rice dumplings, fried dough twists with sesame, and lotus root balls at Central Market or old-town eateries. --- **Budget Accommodations (Poyang County)** 1. **Hanting Hotel (Wetland Park Branch)** From ¥144, 15 km to the park, with free WiFi and parking. 2. **Poyang Yili Fashion Hotel** From ¥159, No. 18 Binzhou Road, close to food streets. 3. **Poyang Lake Wetland Hotel** From ¥138, offering great-value lake-view rooms. --- **Practical Tips** **Transport**: - Drive from Nanchang: ~2.5 hours to the wetland park; take high-speed rail to Poyang Station, then a 30-minute taxi. - Bus: From Poyang County, take the "Poyang–Wujincha" line (¥2) directly to the park. **Tickets**: Wetland park combo ticket ¥99 (includes boat ride + shuttle); free with Jiangxi Cultural Tourism Card. **Best Seasons**: - April–October: Grasslands and knotweed blooms (check water levels in summer). - November–March: Peak birdwatching period. --- Poyang Lake blends wetland ecosystems, grassland vistas, and fishing culture—ideal for photography, birdwatching, or culinary adventures, ensuring an unforgettable trip!