Crowning the summit of Snake Hill, Yellow Crane Tower is one of the most famous pagodas of its kind in southern China. Due to its cultural and historic significance the building is considered the symbol of Wuhan. Legends surrounding its original construction portray the tower as having been built by a family as a mark of gratitude to a Taoist priest. However, History recounts that the tower was first erected by Emperor Sun Quan in 223 as a guard post for defensive purposes. Its military significance diminished with the passage of time and the Yellow Crane Tower was hailed for its charming beauty. Poets of the Tang Dynasty (618 – 907) wrote in praise of it drawing crowds of visitors. The tower has been destroyed and rebuilt over a dozen times reflecting its immense popularity as well as the untiring perseverance of the locals.

The final re-construction which took place in 1981 faithfully reproduced the five storied building according to its Qing Dynasty (1644 – 1911) plan with the addition of a modern lift and air conditioning. Characterized by the perfect symmetry apparent in traditional Chinese architecture, the 51.4 m tall tower has a uniform appearance from any angle of viewing. The 100 000 yellow glaze tiles which adorn the roof and the upturned eaves make each floor seem like a yellow colored crane in flight.

The many exhibits on display at the pagoda and its beautiful location give Yellow Crane Tower a prominent place among the numerous attractions in Wuhan.  The first floor of the tower portrays legends with its giant porcelain paintings while the third floor display poems from various ages inspired by Yellow Crane Tower. In addition, visitors are treated to a magnificent vista of the Yangtze River and Wuhan city from the top of the building. The pagoda and its enchanting gardens are located within easy reach of the Shangri-La Hotel, Wuhan, making a trip to the iconic building a convenient outing for guests.