Tuning into Jiangxi: A DXer's Unexpected Radio Adventure

As a dedicated shortwave and radio enthusiast, I've learned that some of the most memorable broadcasting moments come from unexpected encounters. My April 2023 trip to China proved to be one such extraordinary experience, where a routine business conference turned into an exciting radio logging adventure.

The Setup: A Radio Sleuth in Jingdezhen

Staying at the Holiday Inn Express in Zhushan District, Jingdezhen, I was armed with my trusty Tecsun PL310 multiband portable radio. The early morning of April 14th became a treasure hunt of radio signals, with my telescopic whip antenna ready to capture the local airwaves.

The Catch: Jiangxi Jiaotong Guangbo Revealed

At precisely 0550 CST, the FM dial at 105.4 MHz came alive with a fascinating broadcast.

The transmission began with a melodious title track from the television drama "Green Green Grass by the River", performed by a female vocalist. This was quickly followed by a series of local advertisements that provided a fascinating glimpse into the region's consumer landscape. Promotions for Shanshan Outlet Shopping Plaza and Red Star Macalline Store highlighted ongoing shopping festivals, featuring international brands like Armani, CK, and Tommy Hilfiger.

An AI illustration

 The Broadcast Highlights

As the clock struck 0600 CST, the station ID "Jiangxi Jiaotong Guangbo" rang out with precision. What followed was a captivating motivational talk referencing the Abbot of Shaolin Temple and his martial arts expertise – a quintessentially Chinese moment that added depth to the broadcast.

Technical Details for Fellow DXers

• Date: April 14, 2023
• Time: 0550-0615 CST
• Frequency: 105.4 MHz FM
• Location: Jingdezhen, Jiangxi, China
• SINPO Rating: 55555 (Excellent Reception)
• Receiver: Tecsun PL310 Portable Radio

The station, Jiangxi Traffic Radio, offered a delightful mix of cultural and commercial content that painted a vivid picture of local life. A special thanks to my fellow hobbyist Mika Mäkeläinen from YLE, whose expertise was instrumental in helping me identify this station.

For those interested in listening to the reception, I've preserved a 5-minute audio snippet that captures the essence of this broadcast: http://sndup.net/n6bv

A DXer's Reflection

This unexpected radio catch reminded me why I love the Art of DXing. It's not just about capturing signals or collecting QSLs; it's about connecting with distant cultures, understanding local narratives, and experiencing the world through the intimate medium of radio. 

To the team at Jiangxi Jiaotong Guangbo – thank you for an unforgettable radio moment!