鄱阳湖

Why this place

Poyang is the largest freshwater lake in China, and it shrinks dramatically in winter, exposing mudflats that become the most important wintering ground for migratory birds in East Asia — including a large share of the world's Siberian cranes. In summer it is a vast lake; in winter it is a bird-watcher's country.

What to see

• The winter bird flocks at Wucheng and Nanjishan — cranes, storks and swans in huge numbers
• The lake in summer, and the Gan River flowing through it
• The ancient towns along the shore, and the Lushan mountain above the lake
• The 'Laoyemiao' waterway, which the lake's level reveals and hides

What to eat

• Lake fish and shrimp; Jiangxi's river cooking
• Nanchang rice noodles and the local braised dishes

How to plan

One or two days, usually from Nanchang.

Best time

November–March for the birds; June–September for the full lake