Longquan

Longquan has two crafts, both a thousand years old. Its celadon, fired from the Song, is defined by a thick jade-like glaze in tones from pale grey-green to deep blue-green, achieved through iron oxide in a reducing atmosphere, and it was exported across Asia and to the Middle East and Europe; UNESCO recognised the firing technique as intangible cultural heritage in 2009. Kiln sites at Dayao are protected archaeological ground, and working studios throughout the town sell contemporary pieces. Separately, Longquan swords have been forged here since the Spring and Autumn period, and workshops still make pattern-welded blades, with a museum covering both traditions.

What you actually see

• The celadon studios - working potters and kilns producing the green glaze.
• The Dayao kiln sites - protected archaeological remains of Song production.
• The sword forges - workshops making pattern-welded blades.
• The museums - collections covering both crafts.

When to go

April to June and September to November; the mountains around Longquan are cool in summer, which makes it a regional escape. Winter is cold and damp. Studios generally welcome visitors during working hours.

Honest expectations

The town is remote in southwestern Zhejiang and takes effort to reach. Quality and price of celadon vary enormously and identifying good work takes knowledge. Sword purchases face transport restrictions on rail and air.

Nearby

Lishui lies northeast; the Fujian border is south.