A Brief Travel Guide to Yicheng City

A Brief Travel Guide to Yicheng City Must-Visit Attractions 1. Chu Imperial City Ruins The ancient capital of the Chu State during the Spring and Autumn Period, featuring preserved city walls, moats, and unearthed cultural relics. Expected to partially open before May 1, 2025, after completion of the heritage site protection project. Visitors can explore the city walls, Chu Culture Exhibition Hall, and simulated ancient battlefield to experience thousands of years of history. 2. General Zhang Zizhong Memorial Hall Located in the Martyrs' Cemetery on Xiangsha Avenue, showcasing the life story of the famous anti-Japanese war hero General Zhang Zizhong. Open Tuesday to Sunday, 8:30-11:30 and 14:30-17:00. Free admission, ideal for history enthusiasts. 3. Liyu Lake Ecological Area Built around the Baiqu Canal, a World Heritage Irrigation Structure, creating a "Little West Lake" landscape. The Chudu Park and Liyu Lake Provincial Wetland Park offer lakeside walking trails, cycling paths, and picnic areas. Perfect for enjoying lake and mountain views at dusk. 4. Yinghe Happy River and Lake Scenic Area A national pilot project for "Happy River and Lake," featuring ancient wells, old trees, and folk customs. Visitors can enjoy bamboo rafting, waterfront walkways, lotus ponds, and water activities. Local farmhouses nearby serve authentic rural cuisine. Local Specialties Yicheng Prawns: The signature dish. Recommended restaurants include Xu Lao'er Prawn City (operational status to be confirmed), Jianghan Lobster House (premium experience), and Hong's Lobster Restaurant (good value). The prawns are tender with a spicy and savory flavor. Rice Noodles in Thick Soup: Perfect for breakfast, served with pickled vegetables and minced garlic, offering a sour and spicy taste. Deep-fried Lotus Root Strips: Crispy and tender, sprinkled with chili and cumin powder, a must-try street snack. Transportation External Transportation: High-speed Rail: The Xiangjiang High-speed Railway is expected to open by late 2025, providing direct access to Yicheng North Station. Currently, travelers need to transfer from Xiangyang East Station by bus (about 1 hour). Bus: Direct buses available from Xiangyang, Jingmen, and other cities' bus stations. Local Transportation: Public buses cover major attractions (e.g., Route 102, Route 2). Taxi flag-down fare is 6 yuan, with 10-15 minutes travel time between attractions. Accommodation Recommendations Luxury Options: Liyu Lake International Hotel (lake view rooms, heated pool), Haojiang International Hotel (executive lounge, buffet breakfast). Budget Options: City Comfort Hotel (near bus terminal, newly opened), Tujia China Select Hotel (good hygiene service). Boutique Stay: Morandi Concept Hotel (lakeside environment, family-friendly). Suggested Itineraries One-day Tour: Morning: Chu Imperial City Ruins (if open) → Lunch: Xu Lao'er Prawn City → Afternoon: General Zhang Zizhong Memorial Hall → Evening: Stroll around Liyu Lake → Dinner: Zizhong Road Night Market (snacks and BBQ). Two-day Tour: Day 1: Chu Imperial City Ruins → General Zhang Zizhong Memorial Hall → Liyu Lake sunset → Night market food. Day 2: Yinghe Happy River and Lake Scenic Area (bamboo rafting, farmhouse meals) → Try rice noodles or lotus root strips before departure. Useful Tips 1. If the Chu Imperial City Ruins are not open, visit Liyu Lake or Yinghe Scenic Area first and follow official announcements. 2. Call ahead to confirm prawn restaurants' operating hours. Night market food stalls concentrate around Zizhong Road and Old Street area. 3. Spring and autumn (March-May, September-November) offer pleasant weather. Take sun protection in summer. Winter offers misty lake views. Yicheng features Chu culture, revolutionary history, and ecological landscapes, combined with authentic local cuisine, making it perfect for short leisure trips.