48 Hours in Gexian Fairy Village, Jiangxi Province, China: Taoist Traditions, Lanterns, and Hanfu.
Tucked away in the scenic mountains of Qianshan County, Shangrao City, Jiangxi Province, Gexian Fairy Village (葛仙村) is a hidden sanctuary of Taoist culture, ancient traditions, and breathtaking landscapes. Built around the legendary Taoist immortal Ge Xian, the village recreates the mystical atmosphere of his secluded mountain retreat, blending historical architecture, lush nature, and modern immersive experiences into a must-visit destination.
Over two unforgettable days, we explored ancient temples, joined cultural rituals, dressed in traditional attire, and witnessed mesmerising nighttime performances, including a Fish Lantern Parade and Fire Skirt Dance.
Day 1: Arrival, Taoist Costumes, and Exploring Ge Xian Mountain
Our journey began as we arrived at Gexian Fairy Village Resort and checked into Gexian Village Shanhaizang Boutique Hotel, a tranquil retreat surrounded by lush greenery. Here, we were given a set of beautifully crafted Taoist robes – traditional attire meant to deepen our cultural immersion.
Where to Stay: Gexian Village Xixinyuan Luxury Hotel
For a comfortable and culturally immersive stay, the Gexian Village Xixinyuan Luxury Hotel within the Gexian Village Resort is an excellent choice. This hotel combines modern amenities with traditional aesthetics, offering guests a serene environment to relax and rejuvenate.
Thematic Design: Inspired by the Classic of Mountains and Seas culture, the hotel creates a fantasy space suitable for both movement and stillness, integrating music, art, accommodation, food, and nightlife.
Modern Amenities: Guests can enjoy facilities such as a restaurant serving local cuisine, a café, and rooms equipped with modern comforts like air conditioning and Wi-Fi.
Convenient Location: Situated within the Gexian Village Resort, the hotel offers easy access to the scenic area's attractions, enhancing the overall convenience. It only took me 5-10 minutes to walk from my room to the centre of the scenic area!
Exceptional Service: The staff at Gexian Village Shanhaizang Boutique Hotel are known for their attentiveness and hospitality, ensuring that guests have a memorable experience.
📌 Exclusive Stay Package:
1-Night Stay in a Queen Bed Guestroom
Daily Breakfast for Two
Two 2-Day Tickets for Gexian Village Resort Package (includes admission and a single-trip cableway ride)
Scenic Sightseeing Car for Easy Access
💡 Pro Tip: Book your stay in advance, especially on weekends, as this boutique hotel is one of the most sought-after accommodations in the village.
What to Do in Gexian Fairy Village
Inspired by Ancient Taoist Aesthetics, the resort is designed to reflect the classical landscape paintings of the late Han Dynasty, recreating the scenic beauty, spiritual energy, and secluded charm of the world that the immortal Ge Xian once inhabited.
14:00 - 17:00
Explore Ge Xian’s Taoist Temple
The village’s spiritual heart is the Taoist temple dedicated to Ge Xian, the legendary immortal. Surrounded by towering trees, incense-filled altars, and peaceful gardens, this sacred site offers:
🙏 Prayers for health and longevity, following ancient Taoist rituals.
🌿 Lessons in Taoist philosophy, exploring the concepts of balance and harmony.
📷 Stunning traditional architecture, with vibrant pavilions and intricate carvings.
We then arrived at Ge’s Great Hall, a sacred Taoist temple where we experienced the tradition of incense offerings and silent prayers. Walking through its grand entrance, the scent of burning incense filled the air as we participated in a moment of spiritual reflection.
📌 Best Time to Visit: Early morning, when the mist lingers over the mountains, creating a truly magical atmosphere. There is a cable car that can take you up and down, and there is a fun water slide you can take from the very top of the mountain down to the cable car once you’ve finished your temple visit!
18:40 - 19:00
The Fish Lantern Parade
As night fell, we gathered at the Museum of Talismans to witness the legendary Fish Lantern Parade – an age-old tradition symbolising good fortune, harmony, and abundance.
In Taoist culture, fish symbolise good fortune, resilience, and transformation, and the parade honours the mystical energy of water in the spiritual world.
Originating in ancient Jiangxi villages, the Fish Lantern Parade was traditionally held to pray for a good harvest, bountiful fish stocks, and protection from misfortune.
Dozens of glowing fish-shaped lanterns swayed through the streets, carried by performers dressed in traditional attire, creating a breathtaking, glowing procession. The synchronization of dance, lantern movements, and music made it feel like a living painting. Seeing the illuminated fish "swim" through the streets and across the water was a surreal experience.
Pro Tip: Check the village schedule for special festival performances, which often feature fireworks, lantern displays, and acrobatics.
19:00 - 20:00
Zhongmiao Pavilion
Right after the Fish Lantern Parade, we moved to Zhongmiao Pavilion, one of the highest points in the village, for two incredible performances.
This three-story, four-pillar pure wooden structure stands at 26 meters tall, inspired by ancient temple libraries and worship halls. At night, a stunning light and sound show illuminates the pavilion, blending modern technology with ancient architecture, making for a surreal, dreamlike experience.
The Light Show transformed the wooden pavilion into a glowing spectacle through a brilliant display of modern lighting effects blended with ancient architecture.
The Fire Performance followed, featuring dancers wielding flaming torches as they moved in rhythm, casting shadows against the illuminated pagoda.
20:50 - 21:30
Fire Skirt Dance & Bonfire Party
The evening concluded with one of the most striking performances – the Fire Skirt Dance.
Dancers wearing flowing skirts embedded with small flames twirled and leaped, creating mesmerising trails of light that mimicked the movement of fire in the wind.
The symbolism of fire in Taoist culture – purification, transformation, and renewal – was beautifully captured through rhythmic dance movements. The bonfire-lit square, traditional music, and community atmosphere made it feel like a sacred ritual of celebration.
Day 2: Tai Chi, Taoist Culture & Koi Costume Experience
09:00 - 12:00
Morning Tai Chi
Dressed once again in our Taoist robes, we participated in a staff-guided Tai Chi session at Zongci Square, learning slow, fluid movements that embodied balance and mindfulness.
For those who preferred, there was an option to wear a Koi-themed Hanfu, a symbolic outfit representing luck and prosperity, and pose for videos with real koi fish on a pedal boat.
12:00 - 16:30
Exploring Linbao Street & Local Eats
After a fulfilling morning, we set out to explore Lingbao Street, a lively cultural hub where tradition, artistry, and local flavours come together. Lined with ornate storefronts, colourful displays, and charming tea houses, the street offered a deep dive into the rich heritage and craftsmanship of the region.
We wandered past intricate oil-paper umbrellas swaying in the breeze, the delicate charm of the Fairy Tea Shop, and the cascading beauty of the Waterfall of Flowers – each spot a photographer’s dream. Along the way, we stopped to watch graceful Marionette Long Silk Dances and captivating folk performances by the She ethnic group, adding a theatrical element to the experience.
Of course, no visit would be complete without sampling the local cuisine. We indulged in Jiangxi-style hot vermicelli, the savory crispiness of Shangrao roasted chicken, and the soft, chewy sweetness of chhau-a-koe rice cakes – a perfect way to end an afternoon of discovery.
Travel Tips & Best Time to Visit
Our two days in Gexian Fairy Village felt like stepping into a Taoist fairytale, where history, nature, and cultural performances came together in a seamless, enchanting experience.
From lighting incense at sacred temples to watching glowing fish lanterns float through the night, from practicing Tai Chi in ancient squares to witnessing fire-lit dances under the stars, every moment was both visually stunning and deeply meaningful.
Best Time to Visit:
✔️ Spring (March - May) – Ideal for blooming cherry blossom trees and mild weather.
✔️ Autumn (September - November) – Perfect for cool temperatures and golden foliage. Just be sure to avoid the National Week holiday from October 1-8!
How to Get There:
By Train – The nearest station is Shangrao Railway Station, which took us 1.5 hours to drive to!
By Car – A scenic drive through winding mountain roads leads directly to the village.
Address: Yongyang Road, Gexianshan Town, Qianshan County, Shangrao City, Jiangxi Province, China.
Ready to experience Ge’s Fairy Village For Yourself?