East Lake (Wuhan)
Hubei Sheng
East Lake, located within Wuhan city limits in Hubei Province, is among the largest urban lakes in China, covering approximately 88 square kilometers with 33 square kilometers of water. It is a 5A-rated national tourist zone attracting over a million visitors annually. The lake comprises four main areas: Ting Tao, Moshan, Luo Yan Island, and the Museum of Hubei Province. The Moshan area features a Daoist temple linked to the legendary Qimen Dunjia rites from the Romance of the Three Kingdoms. Surrounding the lake are notable attractions including Liyuan Park, Hubei Provincial Museum, Wuhan Botanical Garden, and the East Lake Cherry Blossom Park. The lake is also known for its ecological challenges, as it was separated from the Yangtze River in 1957, leading to water quality deterioration due to industrial and domestic wastewater inflows, resulting in eutrophication in many parts. East Lake offers extensive recreational activities such as cycling on the East Lake Greenway, which spans over 100 kilometers and is popular among biking enthusiasts. The lake's cultural significance is enhanced by sites like the Mao Zedong Memorial Residence and the Qu Yuan Memorial Hall. Infrastructure improvements include the Donghu Lake tunnel, the longest under-lake tunnel in China, enhancing accessibility. Overall, East Lake blends natural beauty, rich history, and modern urban leisure, making it a unique destination in Wuhan.
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Tip: The best time to visit East Lake is during spring when cherry blossoms bloom, especially in the East Lake Cherry Blossom Park. Visitors are advised to purchase tickets in advance for popular attractions like the Hubei Provincial Museum. Cycling enthusiasts should explore the East Lake Greenway early in the day to avoid crowds and observe the 10 km/h speed limit for safety. Some areas restrict motorized and electric bicycles, so check local regulations before riding. Visitors can benefit from discounts available for students, seniors, and groups at various sites around the lake.
Interesting facts
- •East Lake is one of the largest urban freshwater lakes in China, covering 88 square kilometers.
- •The Donghu Lake tunnel under East Lake is the longest tunnel under a lake in China, spanning 10.6 kilometers.
- •East Lake was historically connected to the Yangtze River until embankments separated it in the early 20th century.
- •The lake hosts the Hubei Provincial Museum, which contains over 200,000 cultural relics including the famous Marquis Yi of Zeng's bronze bells.
- •East Lake's East Lake Greenway is the first 5A-rated urban greenway in China, stretching nearly 29 kilometers in its first phase.
- •Mao Zedong stayed at the East Lake area 48 times after 1949, making it a significant site in modern Chinese history.
History
East Lake was originally connected to the Yangtze River but was separated in 1957 by embankments and sluices constructed between 1899 and 1902 to control flooding.
Historically, the area has been inhabited since the Neolithic period, with archaeological finds dating back 4,000 years.
Throughout Chinese history, notable figures such as Qu Yuan and Liu Bei are associated with the lake.
In the 20th century, East Lake became a significant urban park area, with developments including the establishment of Haiguang Farm in 1930 and the residence of Mao Zedong who stayed there multiple times after 1949.
The lake has evolved into a major ecological and recreational site with national recognition as a 5A tourist zone and ecological demonstration area.
Place Guide
Moshan Scenic AreaEarly 20th century (archaeological dig)
A prominent area on East Lake's eastern shore featuring a Daoist temple linked to the legendary Qimen Dunjia rites from Romance of the Three Kingdoms. The area includes archaeological sites and scenic hiking trails.
Hubei Provincial Museum
A national key museum located near East Lake, housing over 200,000 cultural relics, including 945 national first-class artifacts such as the Marquis Yi of Zeng's bronze bells and the Sword of Goujian.
East Lake GreenwayOpened 2016
A world-class urban greenway within East Lake Scenic Area, over 28 kilometers long in its first phase, designed for cycling and walking with scenic views connecting major lake areas.
Mao Zedong Memorial ResidencePost-1949
The former residence where Mao Zedong stayed 48 times after 1949, hosting numerous foreign dignitaries. Known locally as 'Mao Zedong's Other Hometown'.
East Lake Cherry Blossom Park
A popular seasonal attraction within Moshan Scenic Area, famous for its extensive cherry blossom displays attracting visitors every spring.