Qu Yuan's hometown

Introducing Qu Yuan's Hometown

Zigui County, Hubei Province, is the hometown of Qu Yuan, a great patriotic poet of the Chu State during the Warring States Period. It is a concentration of Jingchu culture, a place of worship for Qu Yuan, and a viewing point for high gorges and flat lakes. The scenic area not only offers beautiful scenery of mountains and rivers, but also allows you to experience the rich local Jingchu culture and learn many humanistic and historical stories about Qu Yuan.

Climate and best time to travel

Zigui is one of the seven major citrus production bases in China. In late autumn, the area is filled with citrus groves, with green branches and leaves hiding red fruits, creating a picturesque scene.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Recommended play time: half a day

Tickets

90 yuan/person

Attraction opening hours

8:30-17:00

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Most Popular FAQs for Qu Yuan's hometown

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

Qu Yuan’s Hometown in Zigui County, Yichang, is the birthplace of Qu Yuan, a renowned poet and minister of the State of Chu during the Warring States period (340–278 BC). He is celebrated for his loyalty, patriotism, and poetic masterpieces such as “Li Sao.” The site holds deep cultural and historical significance as the origin of the Dragon Boat Festival, established in remembrance of Qu Yuan’s self-sacrifice for his country.

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

• Location: Zigui County, Yichang City, Hubei Province, near the Xiling Gorge of the Yangtze River.
• From Yichang City: Take a long-distance bus from Yichang Bus Station to Zigui County (about 1.5 hours).
• By Taxi: A taxi ride from Yichang East Railway Station takes around 60–80 minutes.
• There is no metro access; local buses and taxis are the main options within Zigui.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

• Opening Hours: 8:00 AM – 5:30 PM daily.
• Best Time to Visit: April to October for mild weather and cultural events, especially around the Dragon Boat Festival (May or June).

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

• Entrance Fee: Around 60 RMB per adult.
• Discounts available for students, children, and seniors.
• Tickets can be purchased at the entrance or online through Chinese travel platforms such as Ctrip or Meituan.

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

Advance booking is not necessary during regular days, but during the Dragon Boat Festival or public holidays, booking 1–2 days ahead is recommended.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

It typically takes 2–3 hours to explore the memorial hall, gardens, and surrounding cultural sites comfortably.

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

• Qu Yuan Memorial Hall – featuring sculptures, artifacts, and literary exhibits.
• Qu Yuan’s Former Residence – reconstructed to reflect ancient Chu architectural style.
• Chu Culture Square – showcasing symbolic art and traditional decorations.
• Miluo River Viewpoint – a scenic area tied to the legend of Qu Yuan’s final act.
• Statue of Qu Yuan – the centerpiece honoring his legacy.

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

Chinese-speaking guided tours are available at the entrance for small groups. Audio guides in Mandarin are available; English materials may be limited, so using a translation app is helpful.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• The statue of Qu Yuan with the Yangtze River in the background.
• The ancient-style bridges and pavilions around the memorial complex.
• The Miluo River bank, especially during sunset.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

• Start at the entrance square and proceed to Qu Yuan’s Memorial Hall.
• Visit the Chu Culture Exhibition area.
• Continue to Qu Yuan’s Former Residence and the statue area.
• End with a peaceful walk along the riverbank before exiting.

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

Night visits are generally not available. However, cultural shows and events are held during festivals such as the Dragon Boat Festival, featuring songs, dances, and traditional rituals.

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

• It is most crowded during public holidays and the Dragon Boat Festival period.
• Weekdays and early mornings are the best times to enjoy a quieter visit.

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

• Facilities include clean restrooms, rest pavilions, water stations, and small local snack shops.
• A few souvenir stalls and drink vendors are located near the entrance and exit.

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

• Yes, the site is mostly flat and has paved walkways suitable for elderly and children.
• Wheelchair accessibility is moderate; some older structures may have steps.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

• Mobile payments (WeChat Pay, Alipay) are widely accepted.
• Cash is accepted in small shops and rural areas; carrying some RMB is advisable.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

• Nearby local restaurants serve Hubei cuisine, including fish dishes and noodles.
• Small tea houses and snack stalls offer refreshments near the entrance.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian dishes like fried vegetables, tofu, and noodles are available in nearby restaurants. Halal options are limited but can be found in larger towns like Yichang.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

• Zigui Qu Yuan Hotel – close to the attraction with local-style decor.
• Zigui International Hotel – modern and convenient for tourists.
• Yichang hotels such as Crowne Plaza or Yichang International Hotel are about 1–1.5 hours away.

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

• Three Gorges Dam – one of China’s engineering marvels, about 30 minutes away.
• Xiling Gorge Scenic Area – part of the Yangtze River’s Three Gorges.
• Zigui Ancient City Ruins – a historic site showcasing early Chu culture.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

• Souvenir shops sell Qu Yuan-themed books, calligraphy scrolls, and traditional crafts.
• Dragon Boat Festival items like sachets, rice dumpling replicas, and Chu-style ornaments are popular.

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

• Take a bus or taxi back to Yichang City to continue to the Three Gorges Dam or Yichang Railway Station.
• Private car rentals or tour buses are convenient for combining nearby scenic areas.