Day One: Wuhan University
Wuhan University is a comprehensive key university directly under the Ministry of Education, enjoying strong support from both central and local governments. As one of China's most beautiful universities, the campus of Wuhan University is renowned for its unique natural scenery and architectural style.
The history of Wuhan University can be traced back to the late Qing Dynasty. Over the past century, multiple building complexes perfectly blending Eastern and Western architectural styles have been constructed on campus. The campus is shaded by green trees, naturally integrating with the beautiful East Lake and Luojia Mountain. Every spring, a grand cherry blossom festival is held here, attracting countless tourists.
Cherry blossoms in full bloom in front of Wuhan University Library
Day Two: Hubei Provincial Museum and East Lake
Hubei Provincial Museum
Located in Wuchang District of Wuhan city, the Hubei Provincial Museum is the only comprehensive museum in Hubei Province, responsible for the collection, preservation, and exhibition of cultural relics across the province. Since its establishment in 1953, the museum has amassed over 200,000 cultural relics, including pottery, porcelain, jade, bronzeware, ancient weaponry, and ancient musical instruments. Among them, over 800 items have been designated as national first-grade cultural relics, and 16 are hailed as national treasures.
The museum is currently divided into three exhibition areas: the Chime Bells Exhibition Hall, the Chu Culture Exhibition Hall, and the Comprehensive Exhibition Hall. The Comprehensive Exhibition Hall is still under construction and will present richer exhibition content in the future.
Ancient Chinese musical instruments - Bronze Chime Bells
East Lake Scenic Area
East Lake is located in the eastern suburbs of Wuchang District, Wuhan City, on the south bank of the Yangtze River. It is Wuhan's largest scenic tourist area and China's largest urban lake. The total area of the lake district is 87 square kilometers (with a water area of 33 square kilometers), which is five times the size of Hangzhou's West Lake. Due to its winding shores and crisscrossing ponds and streams, it is known as the "Ninety-Nine Bays."
The East Lake Scenic Area is composed of several famous attractions, including six core scenic spots: Tingtao, Moshan, Luoyan, Baima, Chuidi, and Luohong. Among these, Tingtao and Moshan are the most renowned, each with unique characteristics.
Wuhan East Lake Cherry Blossom Garden
Day Three: Yellow Crane Tower and City Landmarks
Yellow Crane Tower
The history of Yellow Crane Tower is long and rich, dating back to the Three Kingdoms period. It was originally built by Sun Quan (182-252), King of Wu, as a military watchtower. Over centuries of evolution, its military function gradually faded, and it transformed into a renowned destination for literati to ascend and gaze into the distance, composing poetry. Today, Yellow Crane Tower continues to showcase Wuhan's historical and cultural heritage to the world with its magnificent views and profound cultural significance.
The majestic Yellow Crane Tower
Wuhan Yangtze River Bridge
The Wuhan Yangtze River Bridge is the first road-rail dual-purpose bridge on the Yangtze River. For thousands of years, no bridge had ever been built across the 6300-kilometer-long Yangtze River, a natural barrier that continuously separated Wuhan's three towns—Hanyang, Hankou, and Wuchang. The completion of the bridge completely changed this situation, becoming a significant milestone in Wuhan's urban development.
Wuhan Yangtze River Bridge
Hubu Alley
Hubu Alley has a long history and is famous for its wide variety of Hubei specialty breakfasts. This narrow alley was clearly marked on the Huguang map during the Jiajing reign of the Ming Dynasty, making it at least 400 years old. Today, Hubu Alley has become an iconic brand and leader for Hankou-style snacks.
Hubu Alley Food Street Scene
Food Recommendations
When in Wuhan, these specialty dishes are not to be missed:
- Wuchang Fish: One of Chairman Mao Zedong's favorite dishes during his lifetime
- Braised Pork with Fermented Black Beans: Another classic dish favored by the Chairman
- Spicy Fresh Fish: An authentic Hubei flavor cooked with chili sauce
Steamed Wuchang Fish
Featured Bar Recommendations
- Soho Bar: Experience Wuhan's luxurious nightlife
- Chloé Bar À Vins: An elegant French bar in Hankou's historic district
- Return 97 & Very Return Club: A nightclub on the first floor, an elegant wine bar on the second
- Toucan Irish Pub: A cozy Irish-style pub offering authentic Irish food
