"Explore East Lake for just 50 RMB per person! Cycling, picnicking, and photography all included, with a detailed budget list"
Wuhan is crowded during Labor Day? Here’s a local’s secret “anti-crowd” guide to East Lake that helps you avoid 99% of the tourists!
"Going to Wuhan for Labor Day to see the sea? No, it’s to see the sea of people!"
Every year during Labor Day, the number of visitors to East Lake in Wuhan can overwhelm the Third Ring Road—the crowds at Yellow Crane Tower line up from morning till night, the stalls selling doupi in Hubu Alley are packed, and even the Yangtze River ferry is “occupied” by tourists. But did you know? East Lake actually hides a “secret realm”: it has 28.7 kilometers of greenways connecting six major scenic areas, lakeside cafes with a Dali vibe, a mountain park with a Ferris wheel and slides, and even camping sites and flower valleys cherished by locals.
As someone who has lived near East Lake for ten years and visited over a hundred times, I spent three days compiling this in-depth, ad-free, pure practical guide covering hidden activities in the six scenic areas, comparisons of four cycling routes, lesser-known photo spots, and even how to enjoy East Lake for the price of a cup of coffee!
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1. How to explore the six major scenic areas of East Lake? Locals help you avoid the pitfalls!
East Lake is divided into six major scenic areas, each with a unique style, but some may be crowded during Labor Day. Choosing the right activities helps you avoid the crowds.
1. Tingtao Scenic Area: Dali-style café + koi carp in Hanfu, a must for art lovers!
• Lakeside café: At the entrance is “East Lake Coffee Town” with several hidden gems. Recommended is the Osmanthus Latte (32 RMB) at “Lakeside Coffee,” with floor-to-ceiling windows facing the lake. Afternoon sunlight filters through the leaves onto wooden tables, creating a perfect atmosphere.
• Quyuan Fenghe koi carp photoshoot: Although lotus flowers aren’t blooming in summer, the koi in the pond are plump and adorable. Wear Hanfu or light-colored dresses and use “portrait mode” to blur the background for photos comparable to classical style portraits.
• Lawn picnic: The large central lawn allows picnic mats. Bring your own snacks and fruit, lie under the trees listening to the wind—ten times more comfortable than being in the crowd.
• Hidden photo spot: At the end of the water pier is a crooked-neck tree with low branches you can sit on, backed by shimmering lake water, making photos look like movie stills.
2. Moshan Scenic Area: Ferris wheel + slides + Chu culture, perfect for families and romance!
• Forest micro-adventure hike: Enter through the Chu City Gate and follow the “Forest Micro-Adventure” route. You’ll encounter a giant statue of Yu Xiong (legendary ancestor of Chu), a stele engraved with “Li Sao,” and a suspended treehouse walkway, like stepping into a fairy tale forest.
• Colorful cable car and mountain slides: Cable car one-way is 30 RMB; choose the colorful cabins for better photos. The slide (40 RMB per ride) is like a giant slide rushing down the mountain—thrilling for kids and young people alike.
• 1314 Ferris wheel: Lights up after 6 PM, cabins filled with couple messages. One rotation takes 13 minutes and 14 seconds, symbolizing “forever,” perfect for couples to check in.
• Chutian Terrace bronze bell performance: Climb 288 steps to the top for an amazing view of East Lake! Performances at 10:30 AM and 2:30 PM (50 RMB per person) are more niche than those at the Hubei Provincial Museum.
3. Luoyan Scenic Area: Little Guilin + bamboo rafts + sunset, a photographer’s paradise!
• Nine-bend bridge mist installation: Mist sprays on the hour, koi swim under the bridge. Wear white dresses for photos that look like a fairyland (mist lasts 10 minutes, arrive early to secure a spot).
• Bamboo rafts and suspension bridge: Deep in the area, bamboo rafts (20 RMB per person) can take you to the lake center. The suspension bridge sways gently, with karst rock formations behind, known as “Wuhan’s Little Guilin.”
• Best sunset spot: The rock formations at the Die Shi viewing platform. At low tide, you can walk to the lake edge. After 6:30 PM, the sun sets into the lake, turning the sky pink and purple—softer than a seaside sunset.
4. Chuidi Scenic Area: Café + forest trail, full chill vibes!
• Hidden café: Inside the “Shijianlu Bookstore” is a forest café. Order a “Forest Mocha” (38 RMB), sit by the floor-to-ceiling window reading, occasionally a squirrel jumps by.
• Forest trail: Enter from the “South Gate of Forest Park,” follow the “Songgeping” route. Along the way is a pigeon-feeding square (pigeon food 5 RMB per bag), kids can play for hours.
5. Baima Scenic Area: Camping + flower valley, perfect for Labor Day!
• East Lake camping base: The area has an official camping site offering tent rentals (150 RMB/day). Bring your own gear and pay only 50 RMB for the site fee. You can stargaze at night.
• May flower valley: Poppies, daisies, and evening primroses cover the hills. Wear light-colored dresses for photos with “flowers + lake” backgrounds, guaranteed to get hundreds of likes on social media.
6. Luohong Scenic Area: Lingbo Gate sunrise + Wuhan University stroll, a must for artsy youth!
• Lingbo Gate sunrise: Arrive before 5 AM; the pier is already full of people. When the sun rises from the lake, the sky turns orange-red, and the pier’s wave patterns reflect golden light, like walking on the sea.
• Pier café: After sunrise, visit “East Lake Coffee Lab,” order a “Lingbo Gate Special” (35 RMB), sit by the window watching a handsome guy play piano—maximum romance.
• Wuhan University back gate stroll: A 10-minute walk from Lingbo Gate to Wuhan University. Though it’s not cherry blossom season, the red walls of the old dorms and the spiral staircase at Wanlin Museum are still great photo spots.
2. How to cycle the East Lake greenway? Comparison of four routes, choose wisely to avoid pitfalls!
The East Lake greenway is 28.7 kilometers long, connecting six scenic areas. For Labor Day, it’s best to cycle early (before 7 AM) or in the evening (after 5 PM) to avoid midday heat and crowds.
1. Lake Central Route (classic must-choose)
• Route: Liyuan Square → Lake Light Overture → Jiunü Dun → Wetland Park → Lake Heart Island → Moshan Scenic Area
• Features: Most crowded but most beautiful scenery, wide lake views, great for photos; shared bikes available but may be out during Labor Day, so bring your own bike.
• Duration: 1.5 hours cycling, 3 hours walking.
2. Countryside Route (fewer people, beautiful scenery)
• Route: Botanical Garden → Qinghe Bridge → Luoyan Gui Xia → Luoyan Scenic Area → High-speed Rail Race → Baima Scenic Area
• Features: Close to Wuhan Station, quiet with fewer people, has a “Heart-shaped cycling route” (Qinghe Bridge to Luoyan Gui Xia), perfect for couples; along the way are reed beds and wetlands, like walking into a painting.
• Duration: 2 hours cycling, 4 hours walking.
3. Moshan Route (family-friendly)
• Route: Forest Park → Forest Micro-Adventure → Moshan Scenic Area
• Features: Steeper slopes, suitable for cyclists who like challenges; along the way are treehouses and slides, families with kids can ride and play.
• Duration: 1 hour cycling, 2 hours walking.
4. Lake Mountain Route (half mountain, half lake)
• Route: Meiyuan → Panorama Square → Fengduo Mountain → Yikeshu → Lingbo Gate
• Features: Least crowded, mountains on the left, lake on the right, greenway winds in the middle; Lingbo Gate at the end offers sunrise views, ideal for early rides.
• Duration: 1.5 hours cycling, 3 hours walking.
3. East Lake food map: from street snacks to artsy cafés
• Near Tingtao Scenic Area: “Hubin Guesthouse” lotus soup (68 RMB/serving), simmered in a clay pot for 4 hours, thick and glutinous; “East Lake Flavor” spicy and sour lotus root strips (38 RMB), a local secret.
• Near Moshan Scenic Area: “Chu Weixuan” Mianyang three-steamed dishes (58 RMB), steamed pork + steamed fish + steamed lotus root, soft and not greasy; “Ferris Wheel Snacks” grilled squid (15 RMB/skewer), with secret sauce from the owner.
• Near Luoyan Scenic Area: “Bamboo Raft Family” steamed Wuchang fish (88 RMB/fish), freshly caught and cooked, tender meat; “Die Shi Restaurant” osmanthus rice wine (28 RMB/pot), homemade, low alcohol, perfect for women.
• Hidden gem: Next to Lingbo Gate, “East Lake Coffee Lab” offers “Lingbo Gate Special” (35 RMB), made with East Lake water + coffee + osmanthus sugar, sweet and refreshing.
4. Labor Day practical tips: smart choices to avoid crowds
1. Get up early! Arrive at Lingbo Gate before 6 AM for sunrise, Tingtao Scenic Area café before 7 AM, Moshan cable car before 9 AM to avoid 80% of tourists.
2. Eat off-peak: Restaurants are busiest 11:30 AM–1 PM and 5:30 PM–7 PM. Eat at 10:30 AM or 2 PM, or bring your own snacks.
3. Transportation: East Lake area is prone to traffic jams during Labor Day. Take Metro Line 8 to “Liyuan Station” or “Hubei Daily Provincial Museum Station,” then ride shared bikes; if driving, park at “Chufengyuan Parking Lot” (10 RMB/hour).
4. Dress guide: In May, Wuhan daytime is 28°C, wear short sleeves + sun protection; evenings 20°C, bring a light jacket; wear sneakers for cycling, and non-slip shoes for the rocky area in Luoyan Scenic Area.
When the crowds at Yellow Crane Tower flood your camera, and long lines form at the doupi stalls in Hubu Alley, East Lake’s six scenic areas and 28.7 kilometers of greenway still hide Wuhan’s gentlest side. Here, the lake glows, the mountains tell stories, and even the wind carries the scent of coffee.
This Labor Day, why not spend a day walking from the café in Tingtao to the sunset at Luoyan, cycling from the Ferris wheel in Moshan to the pier at Lingbo Gate? Don’t forget a picnic mat—East Lake’s spring is worth your slow indulgence.
Wuhan University, hailed as one of "China's Most Beautiful Universities," boasts a unique landscape that changes with each season, seamlessly blending with the university's rich cultural heritage and classical architecture to create a truly unique landscape. A Poetic Scenery of the Four Seasons Spring Romance (March-April): Cherry blossoms are Wuhan University's most celebrated drawcard. The century-old residences lining Cherry Blossom Avenue complement the clouds of snow-like blossoms, while the classical architecture is enhanced by the sea of pink and white blossoms, creating a truly breathtaking spectacle. Summer Tranquility (June-July): Lotuses gracefully bloom along the banks of Weiming Lake and East Lake, their emerald green leaves bringing a touch of coolness to the campus. Strolling beneath the towering plane trees is a refreshing experience. Autumn Splendor (November-December): This is the season of the year with its most vibrant colors. The golden glow of ginkgo trees, the fiery blazing maple leaves, and the tan and yellow autumn leaves of the plane trees paint the entire campus like a vibrant oil painting, a scene of unparalleled romance. Winter's Elegance (January-February): A subtle fragrance wafts through the air at places like Plum Blossom Mountain. In a tranquil atmosphere, the sturdy branches and red and white blossoms display their proud character, telling stories of time alongside the ancient buildings. Architectural and Cultural Beauty Classical Architecture: Represented by the Old Library, Songqing Gymnasium, and Sakura Castle (Old Dormitory), these early buildings, with their sweeping eaves and painted buildings, green tiles and green ridges, perfectly blend Chinese and Western styles. They are designated as National Key Cultural Relics Protection Units. Historical Treasures: Eighteen Buildings (the former professorial villas of Zhou Enlai, Guo Moruo, and others) and Banshanlu, nestled in the mountains and forests, are must-see destinations for learning about Wuhan University's history and academic legacy. Academic Atmosphere: A rich cultural heritage and a free academic atmosphere permeate every corner of the campus, inspiring a sense of longing. Superb Views: Sakura Peak (the rooftop of the Old Library): A commanding height and spiritual symbol of Wuhan University. From here, you can overlook Luojia Mountain and the architectural complex, witnessing the sunrise and sunset, and marvel at the magnificent scenery. Lingbo Gate: Exit Lingbo Gate and you'll reach East Lake. The pier here is a perfect spot to watch the sunrise and sunset over the lake, creating a dreamlike, poetic scene. Dining and Recreation Most faculty cafeterias are open to visitors, offering authentic Wuhan cuisine at a convenient and affordable price. Campus cafes like Zuotao Cultural Space offer high-quality coffee and a tranquil environment, perfect for immersing yourself in the slow pace of campus life. In summary: Wuhan University is more than just a university; it's a "major park-museum" that blends the beauty of nature, centuries of architectural beauty, and a rich cultural heritage. Whether you're admiring flowers and architecture, soaking in the academic atmosphere, or appreciating the stunning scenery of the lake and mountains, you'll find the ultimate experience here.
Wuhan University's cherry blossoms are renowned both domestically and internationally. Compared to spring, autumn at Wuhan University offers a unique and captivating landscape. Autumn at Wuhan University is a vibrant oil painting. The forests of Luojia Mountain are ablaze with color, the ginkgo avenue is bathed in golden yellow, the leaves of the sycamore trees dance like butterflies, and the deep green of the red maple and camphor trees interweave in a vibrant color spectrum. The emerald eaves of the old library gleam in the warm sun. While the cherry blossom avenue lacks the pink snow of spring, it is paved with the added brilliance of the ginkgo trees. The autumn breeze rustles the leaves, and students stroll through the avenue, books clutched in their arms. Dappled light and shadow, along with the sounds of laughter, create a poetic scene that is "not spring, yet better than spring."
It's worth a visit. The campus is large, the roads are clean, and every scene can be used as a small scenic spot for photos. At the same time, the ancient buildings and new technologies on campus each have their own characteristics. The most important thing is that the Lingbo Gate leads to the East Lake Scenic Area, which is refreshing and worth recommending!
Wuhan University's latest tour guide is here! You can enter by swiping your ID card! Baozi, it is super convenient to go to Wuhan University now. No need to make an appointment. You can enter by swiping your ID card. 👏 This latest tour route guide should be collected first. You can come in handy next time you travel to Wuhan. [Convenient tour route] From Wuhan University, The first thing that came into view was the archway of the National Wuhan University. It was full of history. You must take pictures and punch in. Follow Zhiqiang Road to see the June 1 Memorial Pavilion. Go forward, Li Siguang statue is not far away, feel the style of the great people 👍 Then come to the Wanlin Art Museum, there are many art treasures to enjoy 🎨 Then there are the super famous old Zhaishe, cherry blossom castle and old library. The architectural style here is unique. It was like going back to the old days. In spring, the cherry blossoms are in full bloom, and the beauty is to the extreme. You can also go to the Wenchuang store to see if you are tired. Various interesting souvenirs can be taken home. From the Wenchuang store, go to the 912 sports field to feel the vitality of youth. Then go to the executive building to enjoy its unique architectural style. Finally, I arrived at Lingbomen. You can enjoy the beautiful lake view here. Don't be too comfortable. The treasures follow this route and can easily visit Wuhan University. Go to check in. 💖
"One of the most beautiful universities in China —Wuhan University" The predecessor of Wuhan University was the Ziqiang Academy founded by Zhang Zhidong, the governor of Huguang in the late Qing Dynasty, in 1893. Surrounded by the East Lake and sitting on Luojia Mountain, the palace-style buildings that combine Chinese and Western styles are simple and elegant, majestic and spectacular, and are known as "the most beautiful university in China." 26 early buildings have been listed as "national key cultural relics protection units." tips: ▪️The famous Lei Zong graduated from Wuhan University. The picture above is the lawn where Lei Zong sat in front of the old library of Wuhan University when he returned to his alma mater in 2018. ▪️I highly recommend the mountaintop college-style cafe of Wuhan University—WHU1893☕️
Luojia Mountain, East Lake Water, high mountains and long water, beautiful wind. This is the inscription of former President Dong Biwu for Wuhan University. Wuhan University is a beautiful postcard for Wuhan City and Hubei Province. Tourism highlights include: 1. Tour Wuhan University and gain an in-depth understanding of the profound cultural heritage of Wuhan University; 2. Enjoy the charm of Wuhan University's classic architectural heritage; 3. Wuhan University's Lingbo Gate, Yangbo Gate, and Hongbo Gate are the most beautiful scenery on the East Lake Greenway Book Fragrance Road. The trees are shady and the waves are rippling. It has become the best viewing platform for students and tourists to watch the sunrise, and it is the best at home and abroad; 4. The school is in full bloom in all seasons, with cherry blossoms in spring, lotus flowers in summer, osmanthus flowers in autumn, and snowflakes in the east. Now Luojia Mountain is full of colorful forests, with golden ginkgo leaves and fiery red maple leaves, forming a pleasing oil painting; 5. It is free and convenient now without reservation.
Luojia Mountain is full of elegance, and the campus of Wuhan University is famous for its unique natural and cultural landscape. The campus embraces East Lake and sits at the foot of Luojia Mountain. In spring, the cherry blossom avenue is like clouds and snow, and in autumn, the ginkgo trees are gilded and paved. The mountains and rivers complement each other and form a picture scroll. The palace-style buildings that combine Chinese and Western styles are built on the mountain. The old dormitory has green tiles and red windows stacked up, the dome and eaves of the School of Science form the skyline, and the glazed green tiles flow through the green mountains and forests for a hundred years. Cultural sites are scattered everywhere: the 912 playground is engraved with historical events, the old library collects centuries of books, and Kunpeng Square witnesses the excitement of youth. Mountains, rivers, architecture and humanities coexist harmoniously here, creating the poetic style of "China's most beautiful university". Wuhan University is a palace of knowledge and a world of flowers: in spring, there are cherry blossoms that are famous at home and abroad, in summer, there are lotus flowers, in autumn, there are ginkgo osmanthus flowers, and in winter, there are plum blossoms, and the four seasons are fragrant. Wandering in Wuhan University, you can smell the refreshing fragrance of flowers, hear the sound of reading, and enjoy the elegance of architectural art. When visiting Wuhan University, you must protect the environment and don't make loud noises.
The beauty of Wuhan University, the spiritual home under the Lushan Mountain, is not only the gorgeousness of the cherry blossoms, but also the academic heritage of its century-old accumulation. This university, surrounded by mountains and rivers, perfectly blends the beauty of nature and the thought of humanities to form a unique spiritual temperament. Under the dome of the old library, countless thoughts are colliding here; in the morning light of the cherry top, generations of students are pursuing the truth here. The most moving thing about Wuda is that it not only protects the academic tradition of "self-strengthening, perseverance, seeking truth and innovation", but also embraces the changes of the times with an open attitude. Here, the rigorous academic spirit and the romantic humanistic feelings coexist, creating the unique spiritual character of Wuda people. The calm and heavy of Lushan Mountain, and the dynamic tolerance of the East Lake, is the most precious trait of contemporary Chinese intellectuals.