Tea
It is a well-known fact that China is the largest tea producer in the world. Tea production in Hubei dates back to the eighth century and the province’s Eastern prefectures are home to some of China’s oldest tea plantations. Hubei was also the home of Yu Lu who was a renowned tea specialist and the author of the book, The Classic of Tea. Hubei produces a vast array of green and yellow teas, and where better to try a cup than in one of the region’s many charming tea-houses.
Birthplace of Chu culture
Hubei is often nicknamed ‘Chu’, after the powerful State of Chu which existed in the era of the Zhou dynasty. Artisan woodworks, complex calligraphy and bronze vessel offerings are all talismans of Chu culture, not to mention the distinct music and unique instruments which have been discovered over the years. A set of bells discovered in a tomb in Hubei’s city of Suizhou are counted as some of the world’s most treasured ancient musical instruments.
Natural beauty
While the hustle and bustle of Hubei’s thriving capital is often what draws people in, the non-stop city life and the 10 million lively inhabitants can often prove overwhelming. Fortunately, Hubei is not short of a UNESCO World Heritage site or two. If you are hungry for natural beauty, then prepare for a feast. Enshi Grand Canyon, Wudang Mountain and the Three Gorges are just a few of the breath-taking places Hubei’s city folk escape to when they want to reconnect with nature.
Central location
Travelling China can be hard-going. Language barriers, indecipherable menus and let’s not forget the 17-hour train rides. China is an enormous country and getting from A to B can be exhausting. However, station yourself in the middle of the country and suddenly the onward travel does not seem as daunting. Hubei is a transport hotspot, with hundreds of trains and planes darting in and out each day.
Taoism
Taoism is an ancient Chinese religious tradition that roughly translates to, ‘the teaching of the way’. Wudang Mountain in Hubei province has long been known for its Taoist associations and many people visit the site to learn about Taoist culture. It is believed that that XuanWu, the patron saint of Taoism, was enshrined at this mountain. XuanWu is revered by many martial artists and as legend has it, he is capable of controlling the elements and performing great magic.
Opera
A visit to China is not complete without a trip to the opera. There are hundreds of regional variations with differing styles, traits and accents and it is no rumour that Hubei has a lot to offer. Han Opera, also known as Chu Opera, arose in Hubei Province in the Qing Dynasty. With over 300 years of history, it is one of the oldest local operas in the area and has been credited as one of the sources of Beijing Opera. Huangmei Opera also has origins in Hubei. This opera, originally sung by women picking tea, is one of the most famous performances in China.