Yellow Crane Tower, Wuhan

Yellow Crane Tower, Wuhan

(黄鹤楼 huáng hè lóu)

Wuhan, Hubei province, is home to ethereal mountains and crystal lakes, yet Yellow Crane Tower is the centerpiece of local tourism.

It has perched atop Snake Mountain for centuries, with its crest lifted into the sky, overlooking a myriad of boats on the Yangtze River sandwiched between Snake Mountain and Turtle Mountain. White clouds waft around the tower and the Yangtze River surges below.

Yellow Crane Tower is one of the most renowned towers in the southern domain of the Yangtze River. Its cultural significance led to its being made the symbol of Wuhan city.

This architectural tour de force dates back to the Three Kingdoms Period. Due to the ideal location, it was built by Sun Quan, King of Wu, as a watchtower for his army.

During the Tang Dynasty (618-907), many popular poems were written in praise of the tower. These poems endeared the tower to the people. 

It stands 51.4 meters high. The tower’s appearance is the same regardless of the direction it is viewed from. The roof is covered by 100,000 yellow glazed tiles. With yellow upturned eaves, each floor seems to be designed to resemble a yellow crane spreading its wings as if about to fly.

From the top of the tower, visitors are treated to a fabulous panoramic view of the Yangtze River and the surrounding buildings of Wuhan.

Scenic spot level: AAAAA

Ideal sightseeing season: March to November

Opening hours: 8:00-18:40 (April to October)
8:00-17:40 (November to March)

Ticket price: 70 yuan ($ 10)

Address: 1 Wuluo Rd, Wuchang district, Wuhan city, Hubei province

Notes:
Guides services are offered at the gate of the scenic spot. For English speakers, the service costs 180 yuan ($26) per hour.