Hubei (Extended)
Central province straddling the Yangtze, home to the Three Gorges Dam, Yellow Crane Tower, and Wudang Mountains (kung fu birthplace).
provinces2026-10-27
At a glance
- Region
- central
- Capital
- Wuhan
- Population
- 57.8 million
- Area
- 185,900 km²
- Best season
- March–May and September–November
- Pinyin
- Húběi
- Country
- CN
- Signature cuisine
- Hot Dry Noodles, Wuchang Fish
Why visit
For the Three Gorges Dam — the world's largest hydroelectric project. For the Yangtze Three Gorges cruise — China's most scenic river journey. For Wudang Mountains — UNESCO Taoist mountain and birthplace of tai chi. For Wuhan's Yellow Crane Tower.
Getting there
Wuhan Tianhe (WUH) is the main hub. Yichang has a smaller airport. HSR from Beijing: 5h. From Shanghai: 4-5h.
Getting around
HSR within the province. Three Gorges cruises depart from Yichang (downstream) or Chongqing (upstream).
Key cities
UNESCO sites
- Wudang Mountains(1,994)
- Hubei Shennongjia(2,016)
Day by day
3 — Wuhan
Day 1: Yellow Crane Tower + Hubu Lane. Day 2: Hubei Provincial Museum + East Lake. Day 3: Wuchang district.
5 — Wuhan + Three Gorges
Day 1-2 Wuhan, Day 3-5 Three Gorges cruise.
Famous for
- Wuhan (Yellow Crane Tower)
- Three Gorges Dam
- Wudang Mountains (UNESCO)
- Shennongjia (UNESCO)
FAQs
Is the Three Gorges Dam worth visiting?
Yes — the world's largest hydroelectric project (22.5 GW). Visitor center, ship locks, and the massive concrete dam itself.
How long is the Three Gorges cruise?
3-5 days downstream (Chongqing to Yichang) or upstream. Victoria Cruises and Century Cruises are the main operators.
When is best for Wudang Mountains?
April-May and September-October. Summer is hot. Winter can be cold with snow on the peaks.