Moshan, East Lake

Introducing East Lake Moshan

The Moshan Scenic Area of ​​East Lake is located in Wuhan City, Hubei Province. It is currently the largest Chu culture tourist area in China, the location of the Chinese plum blossom and lotus research center, one of the three major cherry blossom viewing spots in the world, and an excellent place for citizens to relax and have fun.

Moshan Scenic Area is one of the core scenic areas of East Lake Scenic Area. It is located in the center of East Lake, surrounded by water on three sides, with six winding peaks, and a total area of ​​12 square kilometers. It is a national AAAAA-level scenic area.

Climate and best time to travel

Suitable for all seasons

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Chucai Garden

Chucai Garden features 33 round sculptures and 25 reliefs in carved stone, cast iron, and bronze, totaling 252 meters. Like a historical scroll, it depicts prominent figures, significant events, and achievements of the Chu State, showcasing its 800-year history. The garden's unique style and system, characterized by its intuitive and imposing sculptures, are a classic example of Chu culture in East Lake. A stroll through the garden allows visitors to savor the profound and rich essence of Chu culture.

Chu City

The Chu Market covers an area of ​​approximately 5,000 square meters and is nearly 200 meters long. It houses 29 specialty shops, selling imitation Chu-style photography, chime bells, lacquerware, rare stones, flowers, birds, insects, fish, embroidery and other special handicrafts. In 2012, a new Chu Culture Exhibition Hall was built.

Chutiantai

Chutian Terrace is a landmark building in the Moshan Chu Culture Tourist Area, having been awarded the Lu Ban Award for its architecture. Standing 36 meters high and covering 2,260 square meters, it boasts five exterior and six interior stories, creating a magnificent and imposing scene. Its 345 steps are adorned with a 600-piece marble mosaic of a Chutian wonderland. The Chime Bell Concert Hall offers daily performances of ancient and modern Chinese and international music. These performances combine visual enjoyment, entertainment, and participation, presenting a breathtaking panorama of Chu scenery, Chu dance, and Chu music.

Li Sao Stele

Constructed in July 1992, the stele stands 14.8 meters tall and has a base width of 17 meters, making it one of the largest inscribed steles in my country. The "Li Sao Stele" is a representative work of the Chu poet Qu Yuan and a monumental work in Chinese literature. The poem consists of 373 lines and 2,490 characters.

Southern Philosophy Garden

With colorful colors, a new aesthetic form that combines abstraction and realism, and the historical background of the Spring and Autumn Period and the Warring States Period in ancient my country, the exhibition showcases the representative figures of ancient philosophers from the Taoist, Confucian, Legalist, Mohist and other schools that had a significant impact on the formation and development of Chu thought. With Laozi and Zhuangzi as the main representatives, and including other sages, the exhibition showcases typical events and fables of the Chu people in many fields such as cosmology, world outlook, outlook on life, society, and education.

Moshan Zhubei Pavilion

Zhubei Songcui primarily refers to the scenic area centered around the Zhubei Pavilion, located atop the first peak of Moshan Mountain. It is nestled against the backdrop of the Chu culture area, with a natural bathing beach to the north and 13 specialized botanical gardens to the south. It is a memorial building commemorating Comrade Zhu De's inscription for East Lake. Built in 1982, it is a two-story pavilion-style building. A plaque inscribed with the words "Zhubei Pavilion" by Guo Moruo hangs above the pavilion. Inscribed with Zhu De's own inscription: "East Lake is temporarily inferior to West Lake, but will surpass it in the future. East Lake has excellent natural conditions. With the support of industrial development, it will surely become a cultural and scenic area beloved by the working people." From the pavilion, overlooking the lake and harbor, rice fields are dotted across the lake, boats ply and sails drift, and the Yangtze River shimmers like a golden stream.

Tickets

free

Attraction opening hours

7:30-17:30

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Most Popular FAQs for Moshan, East Lake

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

Moshan is part of East Lake scenic area in Wuhan, known for its natural beauty, cultural heritage, and as a historic retreat for scholars. The area combines lake landscapes, forested hills, and traditional temples, making it both a natural and cultural landmark.

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

• Location: Moshan, East Lake, Wuhan, Hubei Province, China.
• By metro: Take Wuhan Metro Line 2 to East Lake Station, then bus or taxi to Moshan.
• By bus: Local buses from Wuhan city center go to East Lake scenic area.
• By taxi: Direct ride from city center takes about 30–40 minutes.
• Walking: Short trails from nearby parking or docking areas.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

• Opening hours: 07:00–18:30 daily.
• Best times: Spring (March–May) for blossoms and autumn (September–November) for foliage.

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

• Entrance fee: Approximately ¥40–¥60 depending on the season.
• Tickets: Can be purchased online via official tourism websites or at the entrance.

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

Booking in advance is recommended during weekends and public holidays, ideally 1–2 days ahead.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

2–4 hours for a casual visit; 4–6 hours if hiking multiple trails and visiting temples.

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

• Main summit viewpoints overlooking East Lake.
• Moshan temples and historical pavilions.
• Flower gardens and forested walking paths.
• Waterfront areas along East Lake.

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

Guided tours in Chinese are available; English guides may be arranged through travel agencies.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• Summit platforms for panoramic views of East Lake.
• Flower gardens and temple courtyards.
• Shoreline areas with lake reflections at sunrise or sunset.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

• Start at the main entrance near the parking area.
• Walk along scenic trails to temples and pavilions.
• Proceed to summit viewpoints and flower gardens.
• Return via lakefront paths to the entrance.

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

Night visits are generally not permitted; seasonal cultural or flower-themed events may be held during daytime.

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

• Weekends and public holidays are busiest.
• Weekdays and early mornings are least crowded.

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

• Restrooms near entrance and scenic spots.
• Benches and picnic areas along trails.
• Snack kiosks and small cafes near the lake and temples.

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

• Trails are moderately easy; elderly and children can enjoy main paths.
• Wheelchair access is limited to flat areas near entrance and lakefront.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

• Both cash and mobile payments (Alipay, WeChat Pay) are accepted for tickets and shops.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

• Cafes and snack stalls near Moshan entrance.
• Restaurants serving local Hubei cuisine along East Lake shores.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian options are widely available; halal options may be limited and require prior inquiry.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

• Hotels near East Lake scenic area in Wuhan city.
• Guesthouses and boutique inns along the lakefront.

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

• Wuhan Botanical Garden.
• Hubei Provincial Museum.
• Other East Lake scenic spots such as Liyuan or Tingtao Bay.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

• Small shops near the entrance and temples.
• Souvenirs: local crafts, tea, calligraphy, and flower-themed items.

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

• Taxi or ride-hailing services back to Wuhan city center or nearby attractions.
• Local buses connecting East Lake scenic area to other landmarks.
• Biking or walking along the lake for nearby scenic stops.