Taoyangli Imperial Kiln, Jingdezhen

Taoyangli Imperial Kiln, Jingdezhen: 600 Years of Royal Ceramics Reborn
Taoyangli Imperial Kiln was the heart of Jingdezhen's royal porcelain production for 542 years during the Ming and Qing dynasties. Today, it blends archaeological sites, award-winning architecture, historic streets, and contemporary art into a vibrant cultural destination. Experience the weight of history while witnessing centuries-old kilns come alive again.

Taoyangli Imperial Kiln Area – Quick Guide

Location: Zhushan Middle Rd. 187, Zhushan District, Jingdezhen 景德镇市珠山区珠山中路187号

Opening Hours:

• Outdoor heritage area: Daily, until ~10:00 PM

• Imperial Kiln Museum: 9:00 AM–10:00 PM (Closed Mondays, except public holidays)

Tickets: Free entry (reservation required via official WeChat)

Suggested Time: 3–4 hours (Half to full day for in-depth visits)

Highlights & Must-Do Experiences

Imperial Kiln Museum – "Broken Perfection" Meets Poetic Architecture
Most pieces here were once rejected by the imperial court and buried as "failures." Rediscovered through archaeology, they are now priceless works of art. The award-winning museum, built with red-brick arches partly underground, blends seamlessly into the landscape. Don’t miss masterpieces like the pierced blue-and-white stool and the tri-color duck-shaped incense burner. Scan the QR codes beside exhibits to explore each piece's story through digital guides.

Archaeological Park – Feel the Pulse of the Royal Kilns
Walk among the remains of Ming-dynasty kilns, including horseshoe and gourd-shaped kilns, along with ancient walls and roads. Longzhu Pavilion, once the command center of the imperial kilns, is the site's landmark and now hosts exhibitions. Youtao Spirit Shrine reflects the kiln workers' beliefs and rituals.

Taoyangli Historic Quarter – A Living Ceramic City
History here is part of everyday life.

• Stroll the lanes: Wander century-old alleys like Pengjia Lane, paved with kiln bricks.

• Try hands-on crafts: Join pottery throwing or painting workshops.

• Enjoy new vibes: Relax in  blue-and-white porcelain-themed cafés or browse designer concept stores in  restored homes.

Suggested Visiting Routes

Half-Day Highlights (3–4 hours)
Arrive in the afternoon → Visit the Imperial Kiln Archaeological Park and Longzhu Pavilion → Enter the Imperial Kiln Museum before sunset for exhibits and blue-hour photos → Enjoy night views and dinner in the Taoyangli Historic Quarter.

Full-Day In-Depth Tour
Morning stroll in the Taoyangli Historic Quarter → Visit folk kiln sites and small museums → Afternoon at the Imperial Kiln Archaeological Park → Evening at the Imperial Kiln Museum for architecture and exhibitions.

Best Time & Tips (Quick Guide)

Best season: Spring (Mar–May) and autumn (Sep–Nov).

Best photos:

l  Sunset/blue hour: Warm light on red-brick buildings; great reflections.

l  Night: Until ~9:30 PM, dramatic lighting and cooler air.

Booking: Reserve in advance via the official WeChat account; guided tours recommended.

Wear: Comfortable walking shoes; bring a light jacket.

Plan together: Pair with the China Ceramics Museum (history) or Taoxichuan Creative District (modern ceramics).

For foreigners: English signage, QR guides, and mobile payments available.