Famously home to the Three Gorges Dam, Hubei is a landlocked province full of limestone mountains and meandering rivers. It centres around the lively capital of Wuhan while also encompassing the UNESCO-listed temples of the Wudang Mountains.

Things to do

Delve into the history of the region at the Hubei Provincial Museum, where ancient pottery, weaponry, porcelain and musical instruments are on display. Witness the Sword of Goujian and artefacts from the Tomb of Marquis Yi of Zeng, then be awed by the Chime Bells, the largest bronze musical instrument ever discovered.

Soak up the commanding views of the Yangtze River from the Yellow Crane Tower, which rises atop Snake Hill in the city of Wuhan. Admire the giant ceramic fresco detailing the mythical story of the tower’s construction and visit the nearby Mao Pavilion where poems by Chairman Mao are etched into stone.

Experience the Taoist cultural practices of the Wudang Mountains, which are renowned for the UNESCO-listed temple complexes and the practice of Tai chi. Visit the Five Dragons Temple and the opulent Grand Purple Cloud Palace, then visit one of the Tai chi training halls to learn the secrets of Wudang Kung Fu.

Soak up the spectacular scenery during a boat cruise along the Shennong Stream, a tributary of the Yangtze River that carves through a towering limestone gorge. Admire the huge caves and wildflowers flanking its turquoise waters, together with ancient hanging coffins dating back around 2,000 years.

Getting around

Wuhan Tianhe International Airport is a 35-minute drive from the Hubei capital, Wuhan, while Yichang Sanxia Airport services the Three Gorges region. Both buses and trains travel throughout Hubei and connect to most of its attractions.