Joanna James
Once it is safe to travel to Wuhan again, this destination is well worth heading to since there is so much to discover. Be it cultural and natural attractions or delectable dishes, the city offers something new to experience on each visit.
This area is steeped in more than 3,500 years of history and has witnessed many major events; it was an age-old trading port, the site of the Wuchang Uprising and a British colonial settlement too. Amongst the main historical attractions in Wuhan is the famed Yellow Crane Tower which is said to have originated in 223 AD; featured in the works of Cui Hao, a celebrated poet from the Tang Dynasty, the tower offers some stunning views from the top as well. Other landmarks one can visit include the Guiyuan Buddhist Temple which dates back to the Qing Dynasty and Chairman Mao Zedong's Villa near East Lake.
Those visiting during springtime, particularly in March, are in for a treat as various blossoms burst forth into bloom. These include peach, cherry and plum blossoms which add extra colour and charm to scenic areas and gardens. Wuhan University is one of the best spots to see such sights, especially along Cherry Blossom Avenue. Those staying at hotels or serviced apartments in Wuhan within easy reach of the university can also conveniently access the East Lake Scenic Area and witness the Plum Blossom Festival held during spring.
Retail therapy can also be enjoyed here be it at cultural streets or sprawling malls. Jianghan Road is a popular walking street home to European-style buildings and a diverse range of shops and dining venues too. Hanzheng Street, Hanjiang Walking Street and the antique market on Xianggang Road are also worth heading to. For more shopping fun, there is the CapitalMall Wusheng home to plenty of retail options as well as Somerset Wusheng Wuhan. Other modern hotspots include Wuhan Plaza Shopping Centre and Wuhan Capital Square.
Nature lovers have much to look forward to than just seeing blossoms. One of the best things to do in Wuhan is to visit the East Lake Scenic Area which is blessed with some truly spellbinding scenery. Set amidst a backdrop of a huge lake, this area beside the banks of the Yangtze River features many idyllic spots to explore; the Mo Hill Scenic Area with its Botanical Viewing Garden, Tingtao Scenic Area where one will find the Tingtao Xuan tower and Bird Forest are amongst the highlights here.
No trip is complete without sampling some of the distinctive dishes in Wuhan. One of the best spots for your foodie adventures is Hubu Alley where you can try local favourites including the city's signature dish, hot dry noodles or "reganmian". Other popular culinary creations to sample are a breakfast dish called "doupi" which consists of pork and glutinous rice within fried bean curd skin and "hutangfen", a rice noodles dish prepared in a fish broth.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
