Guishan Park (龟山公园), nestled at the geographical heart of Wuhan, China, holds a unique and rich history intertwined with the intersection of two vital water bodies, the Yangtze River and the Han River. With a length spanning 1800 meters from east to west and a trail meandering for 2000 meters through its ridges and peaks, this park is a place of natural and historical significance. Legend has it that Yu the Great, a legendary Chinese figure celebrated for his ability to control water, faced a formidable water monster at Guishan. Despite years of struggle, he ultimately tamed the beast with the help of a divine turtle, leading to the successful management of the waters. It is said that the spirit of the turtle transformed into the mountain we now know as Guishan, which means “Turtle Mountain.”
Guishan Park is a repository of Wuhan’s cultural and historical treasures, boasting a plethora of attractions that include the Guishan TV Tower, Emperor Yu’s Temple, the Temple of King of E, the Temple of Guan Yu, the Temple of Lady Tao, Lady Tao’s Cave, and the Taiping Xingguo Temple.
Table of Contents
- Basic Information
- Location and Transportation
- Highlights of Guishan Park
- Vlog about Guishan Park
- Useful Tips Summarized from Reviews
- Attractions near Guishan Park
Basic Information
| Website | http://www.wuhangs.com.cn/ |
| Estimated Length of Tour | 2 hours |
| Ticket Price | Free |
| Opening Hours | 7.00 – 19.00 |
| Telephone Number | 0086-027-84713530 |
Location and Transportation
Guishan Park is situated in the Hanyang District of Wuhan, Hubei Province, China. Its strategic location places it to the south, bordering the mighty Yangtze River, while to the north, it is nestled along the banks of the Han River. Across the Yangtze River, it shares a picturesque vista with the famous Snake Hill (She Shan) in the Wuchang District, creating a natural and scenic connection between the three districts of Wuhan. To get there, you can choose one of the following ways:
Bus: Take bus 24, 42, 61, 524, 558, 585, 608, 704, 705, or 707 and get off at Yingwu Avenue Qintai Park Stop (鹦鹉大道琴台公园站).
Metro: The closest metro station to Guishan Park is Qintai (琴台) on line 6. After getting out of the station from Exit A, walk about 200 meters to the south to reach the park.
Highlights of Guishan Park
Ancient Qin Terrace
Located on the western foothills of Guishan, along the eastern banks of Moon Lake, the Ancient Qin Terrace, also known as Bo Ya Terrace, was constructed in commemoration of the famous story of Bo Ya and his friend, Ziqi, who were known for their musical prowess and their deep connection. This terrace dates back to the Northern Song Dynasty and features a rectangular platform made of white marble, which is believed to be the very spot where Bo Ya played his qin (a traditional Chinese musical instrument).
Qingchuan Pavilion
Situated at the foot of Guishan and facing the renowned Yellow Crane Tower from a distance, the Qingchuan Pavilion was constructed during the Ming Jiajing period (1522–1567). It was named after the phrase “Qingchuan” from a poem written by the Tang Dynasty poet Cui Hao, who ascended the Yellow Crane Tower and composed the line, “The clear river reveals the trees of Hanyang (clear river represents Qingchuan.” This pavilion offers spectacular views of the surroundings and is a popular spot for reflection and relaxation.
Guishan TV Tower
The Guishan TV Tower, perched atop Guishan, was completed in 1986 and stands proudly at a height of 311.4 meters. It surpasses the famous “European Mast” in Amsterdam, earning it the moniker “Asia’s Mast.” This tower offers an unrivaled panoramic view of Wuhan’s three towns, making it an ideal destination for taking in the city’s picturesque landscapes.
Vlog about Guishan Park
Useful Tips Summarized from Reviews
Vending Machines and Snack Stalls: Inside Guishan Park, you’ll find vending machines offering beverages and small snacks. At the entrance of Qingchuan Pavilion, you can find local delicacies such as guokui (a type of flatbread), grilled sausages, and candied haws.
Convenient Facilities: Restrooms and convenience stores are conveniently located throughout the park, ensuring that basic amenities are easily accessible during your visit.
No Pets Allowed: It’s important to note that pets are not permitted within the park premises, so visitors should plan accordingly if they were considering bringing their furry friends along.
Ideal Timing for Entry: Arriving at the park around 4:00 PM is recommended, as this allows for a leisurely two-hour exploration before descending the mountain around 6:00 PM. During this time, the lighting is characterized by soft, slanting sunlight, ideal for both landscape and portrait photography. Taking some time to enjoy the scenery before heading back down ensures you catch the sunset.
Manageable Size and Easy Hiking: Guishan Park is not overly large, and the hiking trails are manageable. It takes roughly 20 minutes to reach the mountaintop, where you’ll be rewarded with stunning panoramic views.
Abundant Rest Areas: There are plenty of resting spots scattered throughout Guishan Park, many of which are shaded by trees. Consider bringing a picnic mat for added comfort and relaxation during your breaks.
