central · Hubei (Extended) (Húběi)
Hubei (Extended) Travel Guide
Hubei is the Yangtze-Han confluence province, where the Han River meets the Yangtze at Wuhan. The Three Gorges Dam (world's largest) and Wudang Mountains (kung fu birthplace, UNESCO) are the headline sights.
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TL;DR
Central province straddling the Yangtze, home to the Three Gorges Dam, Yellow Crane Tower, and Wudang Mountains (kung fu birthplace).
Quick facts
| Capital | Wuhan |
|---|---|
| Population | 57.8 million |
| Area | 185,900 km² |
| Best season | March–May and September–November |
| Famous for | Wuhan (Yellow Crane Tower), Three Gorges Dam, Wudang Mountains (UNESCO), Shennongjia (UNESCO) |
| UNESCO sites | 2 sites |
Why visit Hubei (Extended)
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.
Key cities
UNESCO World Heritage sites in Hubei (Extended)
- Wudang Mountains (inscribed 1994)
- Hubei Shennongjia (inscribed 2016)
Getting there & around
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).
Suggested itineraries
3 days — Wuhan
Day 1: Yellow Crane Tower + Hubu Lane. Day 2: Hubei Provincial Museum + East Lake. Day 3: Wuchang district.
5 days — Wuhan + Three Gorges
Day 1-2 Wuhan, Day 3-5 Three Gorges cruise.
Local cuisine
Hot Dry Noodles (Rè gān miàn)
Wuhan's signature breakfast — sesame paste noodles with pickled vegetables
Wuchang Fish (Wǔchāng yú)
Steamed grass carp from East Lake, named after the Wuchang district
Frequently asked questions
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.