The smallest prefecture-level city in Hubei, Ezhou is famous for the legendary Wuchang fish from Liangzi Lake and its strategic location on the Yangtze River.
Ezhou, the smallest prefecture-level city in Hubei Province, sits on the south bank of the Yangtze River just east of Wuhan. Despite its modest size, Ezhou holds an outsized place in Chinese culinary culture — it is the original home of the Wuchang fish (blunt-snout bream), one of China's most celebrated freshwater fish.
The name "Ezhou" dates back over 1,700 years to the Three Kingdoms period, when the area was known as E County. In 221 AD, Sun Quan, the founder of the Eastern Wu Kingdom, established his capital here and renamed it Wuchang, meaning "prosperous through warfare." The name was later changed to Ezhou in the Sui Dynasty.
Liangzi Lake, the city's greatest natural asset, is the second largest lake in Hubei and renowned for its exceptionally clean water. The lake supports a rich ecosystem and provides the finest Wuchang fish, a delicacy that has been celebrated in Chinese poetry and literature for centuries.
Today, Ezhou is a quiet, livable city with a growing economy. Its proximity to Wuhan (just 30 minutes by high-speed rail) makes it a convenient getaway for those seeking lake scenery and authentic local cuisine.
Ezhou has a long and storied history dating back to the Three Kingdoms period. In 221 AD, Sun Quan moved his capital to E County and renamed it Wuchang, making it one of the key political centers of the Eastern Wu Kingdom. The poet Su Dongpo's famous "Ode to the Red Cliff" mentions this region.
During the Ming and Qing dynasties, Ezhou was an important river port and trading center along the Yangtze River. The city's fortunes declined somewhat in the 20th century when Wuhan grew to dominate the region, but Ezhou retained its importance as a fishing and agricultural center.
The city's administrative status was upgraded from county to prefecture-level city in 1983. Since then, it has developed steadily, focusing on manufacturing, logistics, and eco-tourism centered on Liangzi Lake.
Ezhou's economy is relatively small compared to other Hubei cities, but it has been growing steadily. The city's strategic location along the Yangtze River and proximity to Wuhan make it attractive for logistics and manufacturing.
Fishing and aquaculture remain important, with Liangzi Lake producing high-quality Wuchang fish and other aquatic products that are sold across China. The food processing industry has developed around these resources.
Ezhou has also been developing its manufacturing sector, including electronic components, machinery, and building materials. In recent years, the city has promoted eco-tourism as a growth sector, leveraging the natural beauty of Liangzi Lake and historical sites.
Discover the culinary treasures of Ezhou, from traditional street food to imperial cuisine.
A day exploring Ezhou's lake scenery, fresh cuisine, and historical sites.
Wuhan Tianhe International Airport (about 80 km, 1 hour by car).
Ezhou Station serves the Wuhan-Jiujiang HSR, reaching Wuhan in 20 minutes.
Public buses serve the city and connect to Liangzi Lake and surrounding areas.
Available throughout the city
Mar - May
Mild weather, blooming flowers, and vibrant green landscapes around the lake.
Jun - Aug
Hot and humid. Best for water activities on Liangzi Lake and evening lakeside walks.
Sep - Nov
Best season — cool, comfortable, and the fish from Liangzi Lake are at their fattest and most flavorful.
Dec - Feb
Cold and damp. Quiet season with fewer visitors.
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