transformers - Deanna Roberts Studio

Entrance to Ancient Artist Museum – San Bao (© Deanna Roberts 2017)

Transformers in San Bao? What the? Keep reading…

So, you’re off on a day trip and someone’s suggested San Bao, about 15 mins from Jingdzhen. I guess you then wonder what to do in San Bao. Well… there’s plenty to keep you occupied. You can always hire a taxi to take you there, jump on the back of a motorbike or pedal your own way. San Bao is only a short distance from Jingdezhen and when you head up the main drag and hang a left, you’ll see that big blue sign on the road that announces the entrance to San Bao.

Road to San Bao (© Deanna Roberts 2017)

In 2015 the amount of roadworks undertaken in San Bao was huge. The roads certainly left a lot to be desired but have since been fixed up a great deal and make travel that much more pleasant. Be sure to find out what you can about the area before departing. There’s lots of history in San Bao, lots of stories and loads to look at.

Pop by the Ancient Artists Museum adjacent to the Hang Guang Ceramic Cultural Center and explore the grounds. The entrance road may seem long but the scenery is gorgeous and the mountains in the background are beautiful when lit up by the sun. Follow the path around to the left and you’ll see the artisans at work, displaying the old and traditional methods of craftsmanship.

Raodway entrance into the old part of the museum (© Deanna Roberts 2017)

(© Deanna Roberts 2017)

There’s a great deal to see and the artists there may even offer you a paintbrush to have a go yourself. It’s really interesting to watch and you can only admire the patience and skill these artisans have. They spend hours and hours perfecting their craft and showing it off on beautifully crafted ware.

(© Deanna Roberts 2017)

Venture out the back of the museum too. The buildings have been constructed in a very traditional manner using materials that look like their going to flake off at any time, yet have stood the test of time and endured the elements.

(© Deanna Roberts 2017)

Not sure whether this workman was fixing the road or weeding the path, but either way it was hard work and lots of elbow grease as he painstakingly sat in the scorching sun chipping away at the sandy mortar between each stone block at his feet.

Be sure to look out for things along the way too and take your camera; you just never know what you might find!

Transformers in San Bao? What the? This ‘Transformers’ autobot figure pictured above was found behind this wall (below) – you can just see a glimpse of the autobot on the right of the archway. It was the archway that caught my eye straight away – the work that must’ve gone into it to put it together… and keep it stable no less! Amazing workmanship. Once you enter the timber yard, you’ll see little pockets of galleries along the side and a few bits of artwork scattered across the path. A fascinating place to visit.