Guqin Terrace

Introducing Guqin Terrace

According to legend, during the Spring and Autumn Period, Yu Boya, a zither player from the State of Chu, played the zither here to express his feelings. Zhong Ziqi, a woodcutter on the mountain, was able to recognize his musical rhythm and knew that his aspirations were to reach the heights of mountains and rivers.

Boya then considered Ziqi a close friend. A few years later, Boya passed by Guishan again and learned that Ziqi had died. Deeply grief-stricken, he broke his qin and never played it again. Later generations, moved by their deep friendship, built a platform here to commemorate him.

Climate and best time to travel

Spring and Autumn Period

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

The main attractions of Guqintai Scenic Area are summarized as follows:

"Wax Museum," the storyline about Yu Boya and Zhong Ziqi becoming soulmates;

The "Yinxin Stone House" written by Emperor Daoguang of the Qing Dynasty for Tao Wenyi;

The white marble statue of "Bo Ya Playing the Qin";

Inside the stele corridor are inscriptions such as "Inscription and Preface of Qintai", "Research on Boya's Affairs", and "Record of Rebuilding Qintai in Hanyang".

In the sixth year of the Daoguang reign of the Qing Dynasty (1826 AD), Song Xiang, the grain commissioner and calligrapher of Hubei Province, wrote the poem "Inscribed on the Wall of Qintai" using bamboo leaves as pens and ink.

The "Qintai" square stele, a relic from the construction of Qintai in 1976;

There is the modern-day stone sculpture of "Qintai Zhiyin" and the picturesque "Mountains and Flowing Water" waterside pavilion and corridor.

Boya Terrace, a white marble platform, is said to be where Boya once played the qin. Standing 1.75 meters tall, its center is inscribed with a stele, said to be inscribed by Northern Song Dynasty calligrapher Mi Fu, bearing the inscription "Qintai" and a painting of Boya playing the qin. The platform is surrounded by stone railings, engraved with a relief depicting Boya smashing his qin to thank his soulmate, a relic from the Qing Dynasty.

Guqintai is actively collaborating with the Traditional Chinese Music Department of Wuhan Conservatory of Music to comprehensively enhance the performances at the Gaoshan Liushui Hall, highlighting the performance's sense of ceremony, theme, and participation, ensuring a comprehensive audio-visual feast for the public. The goal is to make Gaoshan Liushui Hall a must-see attraction for enthusiasts of Guqintai worldwide. Furthermore, Guqintai will bring together today's top guqin players and scholars to establish a Guqin Research Institute. This initiative aims to integrate the expertise of various institutions and conduct specialized research on guqin notation creation, guqin history research, guqin curriculum development, and the compilation of ancient texts.

At present, the first guqin social art level grading center in central China has been approved by the Chinese National Orchestra Society and officially settled in the Guqin Taiboya Guqin Society, becoming the first guqin training institution in central China with the qualifications for guqin grading. It is expected to start accepting registration for the exam in the middle of this year.

The entire complex covers an area of ​​15 mu. Although small in scale, it is very delicate and elegant in layout, preserving the style of ancient buildings. The main buildings are combined with courtyards, forest gardens, flower beds, and teahouses, with clear layers. The corridors in the courtyard are folded according to the terrain, opening and closing, changing the scenery with each step, and complementing each other. The builders made full use of the terrain and the skillful borrowing of scenery in Chinese garden design, and cleverly borrowed the mountains and waters of Guishan and Yuehu to form a vast and profound artistic realm.

Tickets

Tickets for Guqin Terrace: 15 yuan per person for adults, 8 yuan for students with student ID, and free admission for people over 60 years old.

Attraction opening hours

8:00-17:00

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Most Popular FAQs for Guqin Terrace

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Guqin Terrace honors the legendary friendship between Yu Boya, a renowned musician, and Zhong Ziqi, a woodcutter who deeply understood Boya's music. This bond symbolizes the deep connection between music and human understanding, celebrated in Chinese culture.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

Guqin Terrace is located in the Hanyang District of Wuhan, on the banks of Moon Lake. Visitors can take Metro Line 6 to Guqin Tai Station (Exit A), then walk approximately 640 meters. Alternatively, several bus lines, including 24, 42, 79, and 401, have stops near the terrace.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The terrace is typically open from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The best times to visit are during spring and autumn, particularly from March to April and September to October, when the weather is mild and pleasant.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

The entrance fee is CNY 15. Tickets can be purchased on-site; it's advisable to check for any online booking options or discounts before visiting.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

Booking tickets in advance is not mandatory but can be convenient during peak tourist seasons. It's recommended to check the official website or contact the site directly for the latest information on ticketing policies.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

Visitors typically spend about 1 to 2 hours exploring the terrace, depending on their interest in the exhibits and the surrounding area.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

Key highlights include the Heptachord Hall, the white marble terrace, and the various stone carvings and stele inscriptions commemorating the restoration of the terrace.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours and audio guides are available, offering insights into the terrace's history and significance. Availability of English-language guides may vary, so it's advisable to inquire upon arrival.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

Optimal photography spots include the terrace overlooking Moon Lake, the Heptachord Hall, and the surrounding garden areas, especially during sunrise or sunset for the best lighting.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start at the main entrance, explore the stone carvings and inscriptions, visit the Heptachord Hall, and conclude with a leisurely walk around the garden areas by Moon Lake.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

Currently, there are no night visits or light shows at Guqin Terrace. It's best to visit during daylight hours to fully appreciate the site's beauty and historical significance.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

Weekdays, especially Tuesday through Thursday, tend to be less crowded. Early mornings right after opening are also ideal for a more peaceful experience.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

Basic facilities such as restrooms are available on-site. However, food and beverage options may be limited within the terrace area; it's advisable to bring water and snacks or explore nearby areas for dining options.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

The terrace is generally accessible, but visitors with mobility challenges should be aware of potential uneven surfaces and steps. It's recommended to contact the site in advance to inquire about specific accessibility features.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

While cash is accepted, mobile payments such as Alipay and WeChat Pay are commonly used and widely accepted in Wuhan, including at the terrace.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are limited dining options within the terrace area. However, nearby streets and shopping centers in the Hanyang District offer a variety of restaurants and cafes catering to different tastes.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian and vegan options are available in Wuhan, including in the Hanyang District. Halal food options may be found in areas with a significant Muslim population; it's advisable to check local listings or ask locals for recommendations.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

Several hotels are located near Guqin Terrace, ranging from budget to luxury options. It's recommended to book accommodations in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

Nearby attractions include Yellow Crane Tower, Guiyuan Temple, and East Lake. These sites can be visited in a day trip, offering a mix of cultural, historical, and natural experiences.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Souvenir shops within the terrace area may offer items related to guqin music and Chinese culture. Typical souvenirs include miniature guqin instruments, traditional Chinese crafts, and cultural books.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

After visiting Guqin Terrace, visitors can take Metro Line 6 from Guqin Tai Station to other parts of Wuhan. Buses and taxis are also readily available for further exploration of the city.