Yueyang Port

Yueyang Port

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Yueyang Port is a major inland port located in Yueyang (岳阳), Hunan Province (湖南省), situated on the southern bank of the middle Yangtze River (长江). As the only international port in Hunan Province, it connects directly with destinations such as Hong Kong (香港), Taiwan (台湾), Japan (日本), and South Korea (韩国). Yueyang Port was granted permission for foreign vessel access in 1996, and since then, it has played a significant role in both domestic and international shipping. The port serves as a vital hub for the region, with extensive facilities including storage yards, railway connections, and various berths. The Chenglingji Port Area (城陵矶港区) is considered the core of the port.

Key Features of Yueyang Port

Core Port Area: Chenglingji Port Area

Land Area: 158 acres of cargo storage

Railway Line: Dedicated 1,100-meter railway line for port operations

Annual Storage Capacity: Over 200,000 tons of bulk goods

Future Expansion: Phase III of Songyang Lake (松阳湖) expansion, including 6 new 5,000-ton berths, aiming for an annual throughput of 7.6 million tons

History of Yueyang Port

Yueyang Port traces its roots back to 1899 when Chenglingji Port (城陵矶港) was first opened. Over the years, the port has evolved significantly:

1956: The first modernized dock was built.

1996: Yueyang Port opened to international shipping, becoming the only port in Hunan Province with direct sea routes to Hong Kong, Taiwan, Japan, and South Korea.

2004: Yueyang Port was officially listed as one of China’s major inland ports.

2010: The expansion of Chenglingji Port Area began, marking the port’s rapid development.

Port Development and Future Plans

Planned Investments and Expansion

Hunan Province has ambitious plans for the modernization and expansion of Yueyang Port. The Hunan Inland Waterway Development Plan aims to invest 230 billion CNY over the next 20 years, establishing a modern river system centered around Dongting Lake (洞庭湖). The goal is to create an efficient and extensive inland waterway network to facilitate direct shipping routes for vessels over 300 tons.

By 2025, Huarong Port Area (华容港区) is expected to complete four dedicated coal terminals, with an annual throughput of 14 million tons, integrating rail-water transport into the region’s energy network.

By 2035, the total throughput of the Yueyang (岳阳) port area is expected to reach 26 million tons.

Phased Expansion of Chenglingji Port Area

Phase I & II: These phases include the construction of container terminals and bulk cargo handling facilities.

Phase I (677.89 million CNY investment) focused on container handling and bulk cargo terminals.
Phase II extended the capacity with three 3,000-ton container terminals and one bulk cargo berth.

Phase III (with a total investment of 1.6 billion CNY) will further develop container and bulk cargo terminals and integrate new infrastructure such as specialized railway lines and port-access roads.

Economic Importance

Yueyang Port has become an essential platform for the development of Hunan Province’s outward-facing economy. Approximately 60% of the materials and products from industrial enterprises in Yueyang are transported via the port, with over 15 million tons of goods entering and leaving the province annually.

Economic Hinterland

Yueyang Port has a broad economic hinterland, primarily covering the Chang-Zhu-Tan Economic Zone (长株潭经济区), which includes Changsha (长沙), Zhuzhou (株洲), and Xiangtan (湘潭). This area has witnessed rapid industrial growth, and the port has been critical in supporting key industries like steel, coal, and chemicals.

Sunset and Industrial Aesthetic at Yueyang Port

A Hidden Gem for Photography and Scenic Views

Discover the stunning contrast between industrial heritage and the natural beauty of Dongting Lake (洞庭湖) at Yueyang Port. This location seamlessly blends the remnants of industrialization with picturesque lake views, making it an excellent spot for photography and relaxation.

Location: 200 meters west of the Yueyang Tower District (岳阳楼区), along the southern shore of Dongting Lake

Open Hours: Open all day, but for the best sunset views, visit after 4:00 PM

Entrance Fee: Free (Special events or music festivals may charge an entry fee)

Things to Do

Photograph Industrial Landmarks: Capture the contrast of old cranes and rusted metal structures against the backdrop of the serene lake.

Walk Along the 1.2km Lake Shoreline: The lake offers picturesque views and a glimpse of traditional life with fishermen using nets—ideal for cultural photography.

Enjoy the Lakeside Music Festival: On Sunday evenings, enjoy free folk music by the lake.