Wuhan
is essentially an industrial and commercial city, home to
numerous Chinese and Foreign companies. However, the city, in the
past, has played an important political and cultural role in China's
development, most notably as the birthplace of Chu Culture, one of the
major schools of thought in the Yangtze Valley. In this regard, there
are a few sights dotted around this huge metropolis worth some
consideration.
Wuhan is actually three towns or
districts, spread across an immense area. Wuchang, Hankou and Hanyang
are the three ancient settlements here, now districts separated (and
simultaneously connected) by the huge bridges linking the two sides of
the riverside.
Hankou is now the largest of the
districts and the business center of the city. Surprisingly enough,
there are some pleasant little streets and backwaters to be discovered
around here and the area around Zhanghan Lu (good for shopping) was
apparently the spot where Blade runner was filmed. This is certainly
the richest area of the city too, exemplified in the expensive suits
the "business men" in this area can be seen modeling!
Hanyang is over the river from Hankou,
and the smallest district in the city. This is home to the Qingchuan
Pavilion which affords great views down the river. Guiyuan
Temple is also near here, a busy and active Buddhist Monastery,
worth having a look around if you have some time to spare in Wuhan.
Wuchang is perhaps the least interesting
of Wuhan's three districts, still a fairly provincial area with few
shops or interesting sights. The huge University is here however, and
considered to be one of the best in China. There are some interesting
areas around here, and a few lively bars and cafes dotted about.
Wuchang is also home to the biggest open space in Wuhan- the East
Lake Park.
