Yueyang

Understand

Yueyang, located in northern Hunan Province, is a historic and cultural city on the shores of Dongting Lake and at the intersection of the Yangtze River. It has a history of more than 2,500 years and was once a major military and trading center due to its strategic position between the lake and the river.

The city is home to Yueyang Tower (岳阳楼), a masterpiece of ancient Chinese architecture and one of the “Three Great Towers of Jiangnan.” The tower has inspired countless poets and writers, most famously in Fan Zhongyan’s “Record of Yueyang Tower.”

Today, Yueyang remains an important cultural and tourism hub in the Dongting Lake region, blending history, poetry, and the stunning natural scenery of China’s second-largest freshwater lake.

Official Government Website of Yueyang

Get around

Yueyang’s main attractions are relatively close to each other, especially around the Yueyang Tower and Dongting Lake area. Bike-sharing apps such as Meituan and Hello Bike are also widely available. Boats and ferries operate to Junshan Island and along Dongting Lake, offering scenic rides.

Taxis are ¥7.

Buses are ¥2.

Bus 55 connects high-speed railway station Yueyang east station with the regular train station Yueyang station.

Do

Walk along a man made rock path around the tower area on the lake side and watch the city wall. Although a modern reconstruction, it gives you an idea of how it was back in the old days.

Cycle around Nanhu Lake - A scenic lake area within the city, perfect for a relaxing bike ride. Bird watching at Dongting Lake - Best during the winter and spring migration seasons. Watch the "Dongting Sheyue" Immersion Light Show - A large-scale outdoor performance that uses light and water to tell local legends. Attend the Dragon Boat Festival (端午节) - If you visit in May or June (based on the lunar calendar), you can witness traditional dragon boat races on the Miluo River, a tributary of Dongting Lake near Yueyang. This area is considered the birthplace of the festival, which commemorates the ancient poet Qu Yuan.

Buy

Yueyang offers a variety of local specialties and souvenirs that make for perfect gifts and mementos.

Junshan Yinzhen Tea (君山银针) - This is a high-quality yellow tea produced on Junshan Island in Dongting Lake. It is known for its unique appearance and mild flavor. Dongting Lake Biluochun Tea (洞庭碧螺春) - A type of green tea known for its delicate spiral shape and floral aroma. Yueyang Lou Miniature Replicas - Small models of the iconic Yueyang Tower are popular souvenirs. Xiangxiu Embroidery (湘绣) - As one of China's four famous embroideries, Xiangxiu is renowned for its intricate designs and vibrant colors. You can find embroidered items like handkerchiefs and wall hangings. Dongting Lake Silver Fish (洞庭银鱼) - These small, white, dried fish are a local delicacy. They are often used in soups or stir-fried with eggs.

For shopping, you can find these items at:

Yueyanglou Scenic Area Souvenir Shops - Convenient but prices might be higher. Local Tea Markets - For a wider selection of teas. Bianhe Street (Bianhe Jie) - A bustling street near the Yueyang Tower scenic area with various shops and stalls selling souvenirs and snacks .

Drink

The nightlife in Yueyang is relatively laid-back, with options ranging from traditional teahouses to modern bars. The area around the scenic spots and the city center offers a variety of choices .

Teahouses (茶馆 Cháguǎn) - Enjoying a cup of local tea, such as Junshan Yinzhen, in a tranquil teahouse is a must-do experience in Yueyang. Many teahouses offer beautiful views of the lake. Bars and Cafes - The city center and areas near the lake have a growing number of bars and cafes, catering to both locals and tourists. Local Beer - Like many Chinese cities, Yueyang has its own local beers. You can find them in most restaurants and bars.

Connect

Staying connected in Yueyang is straightforward for travelers.

Telephone - The area code for Yueyang is 0730. When calling from outside China, dial +86 730 followed by the local number. Internet Access - Most hotels, hostels, and modern cafes offer free Wi-Fi. Major shopping malls and some public areas might also have wireless hotspots. Postal Services - China Post (中国邮政 Zhōngguó Yóuzhèng) offices are scattered throughout the city. You can find them for sending postcards and parcels. Look for their distinctive green signage. News and Media - For local news and events, you can check the website of the Yueyang Municipal Government.

Go next

Zhangguying village(张谷英村) :The town was built by a family surnamed Zhang, whom migrated during Ming dynasty from neighboring Jiangxi province in search of a place that would fit perfectly into Chinese fengshui. The town has a creek that flows through it and it's surrounded by mountains. Changsha - The vibrant provincial capital, a short train ride away. Wuhan - The capital of Hubei Province, another major city accessible by high-speed rail. Explore the smaller ancient towns and natural scenery of northeastern Hunan.