Located in Dongting Lake, Yueyang City, Hunan Province, Junshan Island is a national 5A-level scenic spot facing Yueyang Tower across the lake. This 0.96-square-kilometer island combines beautiful scenery, love legends, and cultural history, known as the "Pearl of Dongting Lake".
History & Culture
Historical Origins
- Name origin: Originally called Dongting Mountain, renamed after Emperor Shun's two concubines were buried here
- Literary heritage: Over 300 poets including Li Bai and Du Fu left poems here
- Historical sites: More than 30 ancient architectural relics remain
Cultural Features
- Love culture: Origin of Emperor Shun's love story with his two concubines
- Tea culture: Origin of "Junshan Silver Needle", one of China's top ten teas
- Taoist culture: Once had 36 pavilions and 48 temples in its heyday
Main Attractions
Love Culture Zone
- Xiangfei Temple: Thousand-year-old temple enshrining Emperor Shun's concubines
- Mottled Bamboo Garden: Legend says bamboo spots were formed by concubines' tears
- Liu Yi Well: Origin of the "Liu Yi Delivers Letter" love story
Natural Scenery Zone
- Autumn Moon over Dongting: One of the ancient Eight Views of Xiaoxiang
- Junshan Silver Needle Tea Garden: Showcases national intangible cultural heritage tea-making techniques
- Wetland Birdwatching Area: Winter habitat for migratory birds
Historical Sites Zone
- Flying Bell: Southern Song Dynasty bell, legend says it fell from sky
- Longxian Well: Tang Dynasty well with sweet spring water
- Qin Shi Huang's Sealing Stone: Legendary relic from emperor's southern tour
Travel Experience
Special Activities
- Junshan Love Culture Festival: Held annually on Qixi Festival
- Tea-picking Experience: Participate in Silver Needle tea harvest in spring
- Birdwatching Photography: Best birdwatching season in winter
Local Cuisine
- Junshan Silver Needle Tea: One of China's top ten famous teas
- Dongting Lake Whitebait: Local aquatic specialty
- Lotus Flower Banquet: Seasonal summer dishes featuring lotus
Best Seasons
- Spring: March-May, best for tea picking and flower viewing
- Autumn: September-November, pleasant weather with beautiful lake views
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Peak season (Apr-Oct) 7:30-18:00; Off-season (Nov-Mar) 8:00-17:30
Ticket Prices
- Adult ticket: ¥78/person
- Boat ticket: ¥80/person round trip (from Yueyang Tower pier)
Transportation
- By water: 50-minute boat ride from Yueyang Tower pier
- By land: 40-minute drive via Dongting Lake Bridge
- Public transport: Tourist shuttle buses from Yueyang city center
Notes
- Lake winds can be strong - recommend windproof jackets
- Protect island ecology - plant picking prohibited
- Boat services may suspend due to weather - check in advance