Wuhan, a vibrant city on the Yangtze River, is not only famous for its historic landmarks and river views, but also for its dazzling variety of street food. Among the countless snack streets scattered across the city—especially near university areas—three food streets stand out for their iconic flavors and cultural significance. Here’s your guide to exploring Hubu Xiang, Jiqing Street, and Wansongyuan Snack Street.
1. Hubu Xiang (户部巷)
Getting there: Take Metro Line 5 to Simenkou Huanghelou Station, then walk about 5 minutes.
Best time to visit: Early morning (7:00–9:00) or evening (18:00–21:00) to avoid crowds.
As one of Wuhan’s most iconic food streets, Hubu Xiang blends tradition with innovation. It’s a breakfast paradise where locals line up for their favorite morning treats.
Must-try highlights:
- Sijimei Tangbao: Founded in 1922, known for delicate-skinned soup dumplings filled with flavorful broth.
- Xusao Yuhufen: Famous for thick rice noodles in rich fish broth—a classic local breakfast.
- Lao Wuhan Sanxian Doup: Crispy outside, savory sticky rice inside—one of Wuhan’s most beloved snacks.
- Jinbaoyin Ciba Mianwo: Deep-fried mung bean donuts with a crispy crust and fluffy interior.
- Jingwu Ya Bo / Zhouheiya: Spicy duck necks and other duck parts, perfect for snacking or with drinks.
- Hesao Nuomibao Youtiao: Fried dough wrapped in sticky rice—a unique combo of textures.
- Yipin Shaomei / Chenji Shaomei: Glutinous rice dumplings with meat, mushrooms, and more.
- Xiongji Qishuibao: Deep-fried buns filled with meat and paired with fizzy drinks.
- Lao Wuhan Jiguanjiao: Chicken crest-shaped dumplings with crispy skin and juicy filling.
- Shan Amei Kang Xiaotudou: Crispy, spicy roasted baby potatoes—a favorite among young locals.
- Shiji Shitaipo Reganmian: A rising star for Wuhan-style hot dry noodles—chewy with rich sesame paste.
2. Jiqing Street (吉庆街)
Getting there: Metro Line 1/6 to Dazhi Road Station, or bus to Baohua Street Huangshi Road Station.
Recommended route: Combine your visit with Jianghan Road Pedestrian Street, Lihuangpi Road, and Hankou Bund.
Best time to visit: Evening till late night to enjoy the lively night market atmosphere.
Jiqing Street is a gathering place for Wuhan’s time-honored brands, offering nostalgic flavors that locals grew up with.
Top recommendations:
- Laotongcheng Doup: Signature three-delicacy sticky rice wrap (meat, mushrooms, bamboo shoots) served with sweet osmanthus wine.
- Laowancheng Suanmeitang: Handmade plum juice brewed with hawthorn and smoked plum, great for cooling down.
- Wang Yuxia Gaodian: Established in 1739, offering sesame cakes and sweet pastries.
- Dehualou: Soft rice cakes and juicy meat buns, now also offering noodles and soup dishes.
- Tanyanji Shuijiao: Local-style wontons with pork lard-enhanced broth.
- Junjun Niuroufen: Rice noodles in fragrant chili oil with thick beef slices.
- Guanshengyuan: Traditional mooncakes and sausages, part of Wuhan’s culinary heritage.
- Caoxiangtai: Mung bean cakes and crumbly candies—ideal souvenirs.
3. Wansongyuan Snack Street (万松园小吃街)
Getting there: Take Metro Line 2 to Wangjiadun East Station.
Suggested itinerary: Start with brunch, explore Jianghan Road, then return here for a night feast.
Best time to visit: 18:00–24:00 to experience the full energy of Wuhan’s night scene.
Centered on Xuesong Road, Wansongyuan is all about street-style dining and strong flavors. It’s the top choice for night owls craving grilled and spicy treats.
Don’t miss these:
- Shenji Shaokao Haixian: Original creators of spicy crab leg noodles—fiery, chewy, and unforgettable.
- Niuroufen: Hearty beef noodle soup, great for cold nights.
- Balilongxia: Famous for oily, braised crayfish bursting with umami.
- Aizi Guokui: Crunchy baked buns stuffed with savory fillings.
- Laojie Shaokao: Street BBQ with bold, spicy seasonings.
- Xiashi Shaguo: Clay pot dishes like lamb stew and fish hotpot—warm and nourishing.
- Liangliang Zhengxia: Steamed crayfish served in a flavorful broth, ideal for summer.
- Abao Shengjianbao: Pan-fried buns with crispy bottoms and juicy fillings.
- Jinchu Tangbao: More soup dumplings! Thin-skinned and rich with broth.
- Wansongyuan Jinyan Niuroufen Dawang: A king of beef noodle joints with thick soup and meat options.
- Pangzi Bingwu: Freshly baked stuffed pancakes—meaty or sweet.
- Liu Shifu Sanxian Doup: Early morning gem (7:00–11:00) for three-delicacy sticky rice wrap.
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned foodie, these three streets — Hubu Xiang, Jiqing Street, and Wansongyuan Snack Street — offer a true taste of Wuhan’s local flavors. From traditional breakfast bites to sizzling late-night snacks, there’s something to satisfy every craving. Don’t miss the chance to eat your way through the heart of this vibrant city!
