Hubei
Hubei Province is a strategically important region of China providing both industry and a wealth of China’s agricultural riches. Wuhan and Yichang are important focal points for the impressive Yangtze River.
Wuhan
One of China’s largest cities which has been transformed through widespread development of recent years. Although large in size, Wuhan was created by the amalgamation of three different cities. Enjoy Wuhan for a day two at the end or beginning of an adventure along the Yangtze River.
Yellow Crane Tower
Once a military look out tower, the Yellow Crane Tower has been on this site (476 BC), although the current incarnation was built around the turn of the 20th Century. This is a famous Wuhan landmark from which to commence your exploration of the city.
Hubei Provincial Museum
Take the time to enjoy this impressive museum. Artifacts dating back to the 5th century BC are on display offering an insight into the significant history that the area holds. Centrally located, enjoy the park like surroundings close to the Museum afterwards.
Guiyuan Temple
Guiyuan Temple is a large Buddhist monastery in Wuhan City. Covering almost 5 acres. Originally built in 1650, the newest element of the sitre was constructed in the 1920’s.
Wudang Shan
Wudangshan is the home of the Wudang style of Martial Arts practiced by the Taoist priests who made the area their home. The temples on the peak date back over 500 years and are well worth a visit.
Yichang
Yichang City is a city with ancient roots undergoing a modern make over. Strategically important in what were known as the Spring and Autumn Periods (770 BC-476 BC). Modern Yichang is a hub for Yangtze River boats passengers and the gateway to the Three Gorges Dam, famed for its size and hydroelectricity production.
Three Gorges Dam
The Three Gorges Dam has been constructed in Xiling Gorge. It is around 2309m long and 101m high. The wall is 115m thick on the bottom and 40m thick at the top. The Dam is comprised of enough steel to build 63 Eiffel Towers.
It is the largest hydroelectric power station in the world, with an electric generating capacity reaching around 18200 megawatts. After all generators are installed, it will be fully operational in 2011. Although water levels will rise, this will control flooding and damage to crops & cities near the river. There are also many sights higher up the cliffs that are currently inaccessible to tourists. An advantage of the rising water is that these rarely seen sights will now be easily viewed by anyone on a cruise. Historic and cultural sites that will be covered by rising water have been relocated to museums or higher up the cliff.
Yumuzhai
Close to the city of Enshi, Yumuzhai is a beautiful village, home to ethnic minority Tujia people. Take time to visit and you will realise that this traditional way of life has been in existence for a very long time. Traditional stories are told through song and dance.