GUIDE OF VISIT
The Chime Bells performance at Wuhan's Mo Hill (East Lake Scenic Area) is a cultural highlight located at the Chutian Tower, a landmark of the Chu culture tourism zone. This performance showcases the grandeur of ancient Chu music using replicas of Zeng Houyi chime bells, a UNESCO World Heritage artifact. Combining traditional instruments like chime bells, chime stones, guqin, and bamboo flutes with modern stage effects, it offers an immersive journey into the 2,500-year-old Chu civilization. The performance has been a staple of Mo Hill for decades, with its troupe dedicated to preserving and innovating Chu music since the 1990s.
Moshan chime performance
Performance Content
The repertoire blends ancient and modern melodies, including traditional Chu compositions like "Yanxiang Shengyue" (《宴飨圣乐》) and "Chu Shang" (《楚殇》), as well as modern adaptations such as "Jasmine Flower" (《茉莉花》) and "Ode to Joy" (《欢乐颂》). During festivals like the Mid-Autumn Festival and National Day, special themes are added, such as "Spring River Flower Moon Night" (《春江花月夜》) and patriotic renditions of "My Motherland and I" (《我和我的祖国》), often accompanied by audience sing-alongs.
Performance Schedule
Daily shows are held 4–6 times a day, with typical timings at 10:00, 11:30, 14:30, and 16:00. Each session lasts 20–30 minutes. During peak seasons (e.g., Spring Festival, National Day), additional performances may be scheduled to accommodate crowds.
Ticket and Location
Ticket Price: 20 RMB per person (includes entry to Chutian Tower and the performance). Discounts are available for students and seniors.
Location: Chutian Tower, Mo Hill Scenic Area, East Lake. The tower itself is a 35.26-meter-tall architectural marvel with 345 steps symbolizing "steady progress" (步步高升). Visitors can also explore Chu-era replicas and panoramic views of East Lake.
Interactive Experience
Post-performance, audiences are sometimes invited to try playing the chime bells, creating a memorable hands-on cultural experience. The dynamic stage backdrop and multilingual introductions enhance accessibility for international visitors.
Cultural Significance
The performance is more than a tourist attraction—it is a living heritage. The troupe has performed for over 27 years, reviving ancient scores while incorporating contemporary elements. The tower’s exhibitions further contextualize the music with artifacts, murals, and dioramas of Chu history.
Visitor Tips
Arrive early to secure seats, as shows often sell out.
Wear comfortable shoes for the 345-step climb to the tower.
Combine the visit with nearby attractions like the East Lake Eye Ferris wheel or Chu-themed markets.
