Morning – Donglin Giant Buddha (东林大佛)
After breakfast, drive approximately 1.5 hours to Jiujiang (九江), home to the magnificent Donglin Giant Buddha (东林大佛) at the base of Mount Lu (庐山).
This is the world’s tallest outdoor gilded bronze Amitabha Buddha, standing 81 meters high, with a golden surface decorated using kilograms of gold leaf. The statue sits within a large Buddhist complex designed in a solemn Tang-style layout.
Visitors may climb the 949 stone pilgrimage steps, gradually approaching the Buddha while passing temples, halls, and prayer areas. The atmosphere is peaceful and spiritual, offering a moment of reflection before the mountain journey begins.
Afternoon – Mount Lu West Line Exploration
Transfer to Guling Town (牯岭镇), the mountain summit settlement of Mount Lu, and begin exploring its scenic western route.
Ruqin Lake (如琴湖)
A calm, violin-shaped lake surrounded by forested hills. Walking paths circle the lake, offering mirror-like reflections and iconic photography spots, especially near the central pavilion.
Flower Path (花径)
A poetic landscape linked to Tang poet Bai Juyi (白居易). In spring, peach blossoms create a romantic, classical Chinese garden atmosphere, enhanced by stone inscriptions and small reconstructed cottages.
Jinxiu Valley (锦绣谷)
A dramatic 1.5 km cliff valley trail featuring bridges, viewing platforms, and narrow mountain passages. Known for its “layered scenery,” it reveals valleys, peaks, and distant city views of Jiujiang.
Immortal Cave (仙人洞)
A natural granite cave associated with Taoist legend Lü Dongbin (吕洞宾). Cool air and shaded surroundings make it a refreshing stop, especially in summer.
Evening:
Return to Guling Town, a historic mountain resort area once favored by diplomats and writers. The cool climate and quiet mountain atmosphere make it a perfect overnight stop.
Meals: Breakfast included
Accommodation: Hotel in Mount Lu / Guling Town