In Jin dynasty, it became a major city in Southern China with a population of over 50,000.

The city is located 135 km (84 mi) southwest of Nanchang, the provincial capital - about two and half hours away by car via highway.

The city's main industry is the XinYu steel plant, which dominates the area.

[citation needed] The legend of Dong Yong (董永) and the Seventh Fairy (七仙女) has been passed down until now.

Their love story took place at today's Xiannühu (Fairy Lake).