Wuhan, capital of Hebei Province, is vital to the industrial, political, economic, cultural, scientific and educational activities in China. One of China’s largest inland cities, Wuhan lies at the spot where the Changjiang and Hanshui rivers converge. There’s some significance to being at the center of things, and in the case of Wuhan, being at the crossroads connotes witnessing so many things – from ancient times to the present.
Wuhan is a name believed to have been culled from the first syllables of its three districts – Wuchang in the east, Hankou in the north and Hanyang in the south. Wuchang during the Han period served as headquarters for the peasants’ revolutionary army during the later part of the 14th century. A revolt against Qing government also took place in Wuchang. Hankou was transformed from a village to a trading port with the arrival of foreign settlers. On the other hand, the first iron & steel works of China occurred towards the end of the 19th century in Hanyang.
Notwithstanding the fact that it is one of the most densely inhabited cities in China, Wuhan can satisfy the tastes of the most jaded travelers. It may be because while it’s a thriving economic center, it also reflects China’s unique culture. Wuhan settlers will point to the First Yangtze River Bridge constructed in 1957, as well as the famous Yellow Crane Tower, the Guiyuan Temple, the Hubei Provincial Museum, and many natural wonders, among the special attractions that the place has to offer.
Yellow Crane Tower, dubbed as the ”eternal sight of the city”, is located in the west of Wuchang district. The original building was built in 1223. The story goes that an immortal being flew down to the mountain riding a yellow crane. Through the years, the five-storey tower was damaged and even razed by a fire but was rebuilt. Sightseers are offered a picturesque view of the Changjiang river and the countryside surrounding Wuhan from the Yellow Crane Tower.
Also worth checking out is the famous Guiyuan Temple, originally built by a monk back in 1658. Awesome architecture and splendid Buddhist sculptures are among the compelling things to see at Guiyuan Temple.
The Hubei Provincial Museum which was constructed in 1953 showcases important cultural artifacts plus other well-preserved items, including ancient musical instruments, coffins, weaponry, plus bronze and lacquer ware used in ancient Chinese times.
Leisure (or even business) travelers may find Wuhan’s climate agreeable for most of the year. Wuhan has subtropical monsoon weather. Summertime can be scorching hot or rainy (from June until August), though, while the cold winter months may tend to be severe.