Check in China: Make the most of your trip to wonderful and insanely picturesque Wuhan
With bustling streets, tranquil parks and lakes, and historical relics, in Wuhan, there is never a dull moment
Wuhan may be a major urban city, but it beautiful scenic parks offer some calm away from the chaos.“Wuhan? More like oohhan!”
Whether you are looking for good food, rich culture and history, or scenery, Wuhan (武漢) has it all. Here are just some of this city’s best attractions.
Yellow Crane Tower
The beautiful Yellow Crane Tower (黃鶴樓) is considered one of four historically renowned towers on the mainland, collectively known as the Four Great Towers of China. It is consistently ranked as one of the best attractions in the country.
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Standing at 50 metres tall, the Yellow Crane Tower not only showcases the skill of traditional architects, but it also holds historical significance. Due to its great location on the Southern bank of Yangtze River in Wuchang District, visitors can enjoy a breathtaking view of the surrounding city from the top. The easiest way to get to the tower is by bus; take number 10, 61, 401 or 402. The entrance fee is 70 yuan (HK$80).
Hankou Riverside Park
Looking for somewhere to relax after a long day of sightseeing? Look no further than Hankou Riverside Park (江滩公园). Here, you can amble along the banks of the Yangtze, admire the surrounding sculptures and fountains, or even fly a kite.
In the evening, as the city starts to light up, you’ll get a perfect view of the dazzling skyline. And best of all, the park is completely free.
Where to Eat: Hubu Alley
Hubu Alley (戶部巷) is the best-known food street in Wuhan, and is famous for its authentic dishes, from hot noodles (熱乾麵) to fried rice and milk buns (麵窩). Get there by taxi, or take bus 14, 15, 16, or 18.
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East Lake Scenic Park
The East Lake Scenic Park (東湖生態旅), another of the mainland’s best-loved attractions, is well-deserving of its name. The sprawling park surrounds one of the largest city lakes in the mainland, and boasts a bird sanctuary, museum, and a botanical garden. Whether you choose to take in the scenery on foot or rent a bicycle, you’re in for a visual treat.
How to Get there
A direct flight from Hong Kong to Wuhan takes two hours, but you can also take a high-speed train from Shenzhen, which takes around five hours. The 12-hour overnight train is the cheapest option, and the long journey is made bearable by surprisingly comfortable bunk-beds.
Before you go
If you plan to visit Wuhan during July and August, arm yourself with an umbrella and plenty of water and sunscreen – the midday heat can be very intense.
Transportation
Buses 401 and 402 take you to many of the popular attractions around the city for two yuan. The metro is also an easy and convenient method of travel, but just keep in mind that many of the lines are still under construction. Lastly, the taxis in Wuhan are quite affordable, with a starting price of only 10 yuan!
Edited by Charlotte Ames-Ettridge