Explore Three National 4A Level Attractions in Yichang, Hubei: A Journey Through Historical Scenic Spots

One of Yichang's Four National 5A Level Attractions: Qu Yuan Hometown

Currently, Yichang City in Hubei Province boasts four national 5A level tourist attractions, one of which is the hometown of Qu Yuan, a significant figure associated with the Dragon Boat Festival.

The history of this site traces back to "Qu Yuan Tuo(屈原沱)," situated five miles east of Zhi Gui Guizhou City. Initially established during the Tang Dynasty, it was later renamed "Qing Lie Gong Temple(清烈公祠)" in the Northern Song Dynasty. Following the Gezhouba Water Conservancy Project in 1976, the temple was relocated to Phoenix Mountain in Guizhou and rechristened as the "Qu Yuan Temple(屈原祠)," eventually evolving into the present-day Hometown of Qu Yuan(屈原故里).

The Qu Yuan Temple stands as a central feature of the Hometown of Qu Yuan, showcasing a grand architectural design. This prominent structure, with a total investment of around 48 million RMB and a building area of 5,806 square meters, includes various elements such as a mountain gate, two auxiliary houses, a stele gallery, front hall, music and dance building, main hall, worship hall, and Qu Yuan's tomb.

The scenic area surrounding the Qu Yuan Temple is rich with attractions, including the New Beach Ancient Dwellings, Gorge Stone Inscriptions, Ancient Bridges in the Gorge, and other notable sites. Additionally, visitors can explore the Qu Yuan Cultural and Arts Center and enjoy the picturesque riverside landscape areas. 

Furthermore, the area is adorned with peach blossoms, cherry blossoms, crabapple trees, orange trees, and orchids—plants frequently mentioned in "Chu Ci (楚辭)," a literary form originating from Qu Yuan. The expansive cherry blossom garden covering 9,000 square meters and the peach blossom garden spanning 8,400 square meters create a breathtaking display, especially during the blooming season from late March to early April. Strolling along the path from the Qu Yuan Hometown to the suspension bridge or enjoying the riverside viewing area offers visitors a truly spectacular experience amidst nature's splendor.

Indeed, dragon boat racing is a key element associated with Qu Yuan, adding a vibrant and authentic touch to the cultural significance of the event. Witnessing dragon boat races in Qu Yuan's hometown holds profound meaning and authenticity.

Since 1979, the local community has been actively participating in dragon boat races, with recent years seeing the emergence of the National Dragon Boat Training Competition Base situated at Xu Jia Chong Bay in Yichang City. This base has evolved into a competitive arena for skilled dragon boat athletes, attracting participants from various provinces to showcase their prowess in several competitions featuring 12-person dragon boats.

The allure of these races draw top competitors from multiple regions, making Yichang a prominent travel destination during the annual Dragon Boat Festival. 

Hometown of Qu Yuan

• Address: Cultural Tourism Area of Hometown of Qu Yuan, Pinghu Avenue, Zhi Gui County, Yichang City, Hubei Province
• Time: 08:30-17:00
• Phone: +86 157 1789 5513
• Ticket Price: CN¥80/adult, CN¥40/student, free for children under 12
• Website: jiuwanxi.com.cn

China's Number One Rafting Experience: Jiu Wan Stream Rafting

Situated along the picturesque banks of the Xiling Gorge of the Yangtze River, just 20 kilometers from the renowned Three Gorges Dam, the Jiu Wan Stream Rafting Scenic Area(九畹溪漂流景區) spans an impressive 60 square kilometers. Embraced by nature's splendor, this location has earned the title of "China's Number One Rafting(中華第一漂)" among tourists, offering a harmonious blend of adventure, leisure, and scenic beauty.

Notably, Jiu Wan Stream Rafting holds the distinction of being the first national 4A level tourist attraction themed around rafting. Acknowledged as a training base for rafting by the National Sports General Administration, it stands out as a premier destination for enthusiasts seeking an adrenaline-pumping experience amidst captivating surroundings.

With a total length of 6.4 kilometers and a significant drop of over 100 meters, Jiu Wan Stream Rafting boasts 32 rapid sections featuring exhilarating waves and 28 deep pools. The thrill of navigating these waters lies in the seamless integration of adventure with sightseeing, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the excitement of rushing waters while swiftly absorbing the essence of "Ba Chu Culture(巴楚文化)."

This unique combination of rafting and sightseeing offers an unforgettable journey, where visitors can feel the pulse of nature's power while gaining a deeper appreciation for the cultural richness that permeates the region. Jiu Wan Stream Rafting promises an exhilarating and immersive experience that seamlessly blends adventure with the awe-inspiring beauty of the natural landscape.

Jiu Wan Stream Rafting

• Address: Huai Shu Ping Village, Jiu Wan Stream Town, Zhi Gui County, Yichang City, Hubei Province
• Time: 13:00-15:00 (April to September each year)
• Phone: +86 071 7281 0092
• Ticket Price: CN¥170/adult
• Website: jiuwanxi.com.cn

Film Set Built for Zhang Yimou: Chinese Han City(中國漢城)

The Chinese Han City, nestled in Zao Yang City, Hubei Province, and meticulously planned by Tsinghua University, is a sprawling retro architectural complex spanning approximately 7.29 square kilometers. This grand site harmoniously blends the quintessence of Han Dynasty architecture with classical garden landscapes, offering visitors a glimpse into ancient Chinese heritage.

With an impressive investment of around 2.2 billion RMB and completion in 2012, the site was designated as a national 4A level tourist attraction in 2019. Han City serves as a multifunctional destination, catering to film and television entertainment shooting, tourism, leisure pursuits for citizens, the promotion of Buddhism, and the celebration of traditional Chinese culture.

Key attractions within Han City include the Han Palace, West Market Han Street, Cultural Plaza, and Bao En Temple East Market. The city is divided into distinct zones, each offering a unique experience, such as the historical charm of the Han Palace, the vibrant atmosphere of Han Street, and the serene ambiance of Bao En Temple.

The Han Palace, situated in the northern precinct of Han City, features over 20 ancient-style buildings representing various historical periods, including the ancient city of Jingzhou, Shangyang Pass, the Hall of Morning Audience, the Inner Palace, the Imperial Garden, and the Outer City. These settings not only serve as filming locations for movie crews but also allow tourists to immerse themselves in the cultural ambiance of the Han Dynasty.

Visitors to Han City can enjoy a diverse array of cultural performances daily, such as "The Imperial Guard Welcomes Guests," "The Ascension Ceremony," "Emperor Guangwu's Military Training," "Han Palace Music and Dance," and "Han Dynasty Coming-of-Age Ceremony Display." Additionally, the city features a spacious classroom accommodating over a thousand individuals, offering interactive experience projects like movable type printing and traditional papermaking for students and visitors alike.

The Cultural Plaza, positioned in the western part of Han City, boasts granite-paved walkways and houses a museum exhibition hall, urban impression hall, film and television center, and Guangwu Theater. These facilities ensure that visitors not only enjoy their visit but also gain an in-depth understanding of the rich cultural tapestry of the Han Dynasty.

The captivating film "Shadow(影)," directed by the renowned Zhang Yimou and featuring Deng Chao and Sun Li, was filmed at the picturesque Han City. A short stroll to the northwest of Han City leads to a commercial area known as "Han Street, West Market," meticulously designed to replicate the royal streets of the Han dynasty. This area was constructed in accordance with Zhang Yimou's specifications during the filming of "Shadow," adding an authentic touch to the cinematic masterpiece.

More recently, the television show "Master's Biography: The Poets of the Tang Dynasty(宗師列傳.大唐詩傳)," starring Ma Tianyu and Ye Zuxin, also chose Han City as a shooting location. The historical charm and architectural authenticity of Han City make it a preferred setting for filmmakers and artists seeking to bring ancient narratives to life on screen. The allure of this location, with its attention to detail and rich cultural ambiance, continues to attract prominent productions, further enhancing its reputation as a favored backdrop for creative endeavors.

Chinese Han City

• Address: Han City Scenic Area, East Ring Road, South City, Zao Yang City, Hubei Province
• Phone: +86 071 0665 8666
• Ticket Price: CN¥100/adult, free for children, seniors over 70
• Website: zghc.cc