Qu Yuan's Hometown Cultural Tourism Zone
Nestled in Zigui County, Yichang, Hubei, Qu Yuan’s Hometown Cultural Tourism Area is a 5A-rated national heritage park. Spanning 500 acres along the Yangtze River, it showcases the legacy of Qu Yuan (340–278 BCE), China’s greatest patriotic poet and founder of the "Chu Ci" (Songs of Chu) literary tradition. The area integrates cultural relics, poetic tributes, and scenic landscapes, offering a vivid portrait of Chu civilization.
Historical Overview
Qu Yuan, a statesman and poet of the Warring States Period, pioneered romantic poetry and "fragrant herb" metaphors. Exiled for political dissent, he drowned in the Miluo River, inspiring the Dragon Boat Festival. In 1953, UNESCO honored him as a global cultural icon. The area evolved from a fishing village to a cultural hub, earning 5A status in 2006 and hosting events like the Dragon Boat Festival Temple Fair.
Structural Layout
The scenic area comprises three zones:
- Qu Yuan Memorial Zone: Centered on Qu Yuan Temple, featuring ancestral halls and poetic inscriptions.
- Three Gorges Ancient Residence Zone: Preserves 24 relocated relics, including Xintan folk houses and cliff carvings.
- Cultural Experience Zone: Includes non-heritage workshops, theaters, and the Chu Culture Art Center.
Key landmarks include the Miluo River viewpoints and the "Qu Yuan’s Footsteps" cultural trail.
Major Attractions
- Qu Yuan Temple: A Ming Dynasty-era shrine with stone carvings and relics dedicated to the poet.
- Non-Heritage Workshop: Hands-on activities like Chu embroidery, paper-cutting, and Bamboo weaving.
- Xintan Ancient Residences: Ming-era wooden houses with courtyard layouts and river views.
- Dragon Boat Festival Reenactment: Annual ceremonies with boat races and zongzi-making (May–June).
- Chu Culture Art Center: Multimedia exhibits on Chu history and Qu Yuan’s works.
Suggested Itineraries
- Classic Route (2–3 hours):
Visitor Center → Qu Yuan Temple → Xintan Residences → Dragon Boat Plaza → Return
Highlights: Poetic tributes, ancient architecture, and cultural demonstrations.
- Cultural Route (4–5 hours):
Add non-heritage workshops, Chu embroidery classes, and the "Poetry God" theater show.
- Panoramic Route (Full Day):
Include sunrise at Miluo River, hiking to cliff carvings, and a luxury cruise with Chu music.
Ticket Purchase
- Full Ticket: CNY 68/adult (includes entry).
- Discounts: CNY 40 for students/seniors; free for children under 1.2m.
- Book via official site (http://www.jiuwanxi.com.cn/) or Trip.com.
Transportation
- From Yichang: Take 809 intercity bus (CNY 20, 40 mins) or drive via Fanba Expressway (30 mins).
- Self-Drive: Follow G50 Expressway to Zigui Exit → follow signs to the scenic area.
- Parking: 1,500-space lots at North/South Gates (CNY 10/hour).
Best Time & Tips
- Peak Hours: Avoid 10 AM–2 PM; visit early for misty river views.
- Ideal Seasons: spring (Apr–May) for blossoms, autumn (Oct–Nov) for clear skies.
- Essentials:
- Wear comfortable shoes for cliffside trails (2,000+ steps possible).
- Try local dishes: zongzi (glutinous rice dumplings), fish hotpot.
- Photography allowed except in cultural performances.
- Prohibited: Drones, large bags.
- Cultural Note: Remove hats during Qu Yuan rituals as a sign of respect.