China's porcelain capital with 1,700 years of ceramic-making heritage
Jingdezhen is China's porcelain capital, a city with over 1,700 years of ceramic-making heritage. The city's name literally means "Jingde Town," bestowed by Emperor Zhenzong during the Song Dynasty in recognition of its exquisite porcelain. Today, Jingdezhen remains a living museum of ceramic art, where ancient kilns still fire and master craftsmen pass down techniques through generations. The city attracts artists and ceramic enthusiasts from around the world, creating a unique blend of tradition and contemporary creativity. Beyond porcelain, visitors can explore ancient towns, lush forests, and taste authentic Jiangxi cuisine.
Jingdezhen's ceramic tradition began over 1,700 years ago during the Eastern Jin Dynasty (317-420 AD) when locals first started pottery production. The city's breakthrough came during the Song Dynasty when its Qingbai (bluish-white) porcelain gained imperial recognition. In 1004 AD, Emperor Zhenzong was so impressed by the quality that he renamed the town "Jingdezhen" after his reign title "Jingde."
During the Yuan Dynasty (1271-1368), Jingdezhen became the official imperial kiln site, producing the world-famous Blue and White porcelain using imported cobalt from Persia. The Ming (1368-1644) and Qing (1644-1912) dynasties marked the city's golden age, with imperial kilns producing exquisite wares exclusively for the royal court. Innovations like doucai (contrasting colors) and falangcai (enamel) porcelain were developed during this period.
After the fall of the Qing Dynasty, the imperial kilns closed, but private workshops continued production. The city's ceramic industry was reorganized after 1949, and in recent decades, Jingdezhen has transformed into a center for ceramic education, research, and cultural tourism. In 2014, UNESCO designated Jingdezhen as a Creative City of Crafts and Folk Art.
Jingdezhen's economy centers on the ceramic industry, which encompasses artistic ceramics, daily-use porcelain, and industrial ceramics. The city produces approximately 2 billion yuan worth of ceramics annually, with products exported to over 100 countries. The ceramic cultural and creative industry has become a new growth engine, attracting investment and young entrepreneurs.
Beyond ceramics, Jingdezhen has developed aviation manufacturing through Changhe Aircraft Industries, producing helicopters for both civilian and military use. Tourism contributes significantly to the local economy, with over 10 million visitors annually. The city is also investing in high-tech industries including new materials and renewable energy.
Discover the culinary treasures of Jingdezhen, from traditional street food to imperial cuisine.
Jingdezhen Luojia Airport is 7km from downtown with flights to Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, and Shenzhen.
Mar - May
Pleasant temperatures (15-25°C) and blooming flowers. Perfect for visiting nearby Wuyuan's rapeseed fields in late March. Ideal weather for outdoor activities and pottery workshops.
Jun - Aug
Hot and humid with temperatures reaching 35°C. Indoor attractions like museums and pottery studios offer cool retreats. Summer evenings at Taoxichuan are lively.
Sep - Nov
Comfortable temperatures (15-25°C) with clear skies. Excellent for visiting Yaoli Ancient Town and hiking. The ceramic biennale often takes place in autumn.
Dec - Feb
Mild winter with temperatures rarely below 0°C. Fewer tourists mean more intimate experiences at workshops and markets. Some kiln firing events during Chinese New Year.
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