Hangzhou is the capital of Zhejiang province and its political, economic and cultural center. With its famous natural beauty and cultural heritages, Hangzhou is one of China's most important tourist venues. The City, the southern terminus of the Grand Canal, is located on the lower reaches of the Qiantang River in southeast China, a superior position in the Yangtze Delta and only 180 kilometers from Shanghai. Hangzhou has a subtropical monsoon type climate with four quite distinct seasons. However, it is neither too hot in summer nor too cold in winter making it a year round destination.
The West Lake is undoubtedly the most
renowned feature of Hangzhou, noted for the scenic beauty
that blends naturally with many famous historical and
cultural sites. In this scenic area, Solitary Hill, the
Mausoleum of General Yue Fei, the Six Harmonies Pagoda and
the Ling Yin Temple are probably the most frequently
visited attractions. The "Ten West Lake Prospects" have
been specially selected to give the visitor outstanding
views of the lake, mountains and monuments.
A number of national museums can be
found in Hangzhou and are representative of Chinese
culture. Fine examples are the National Silk Museum
and Tea Museum. Along with the other museums in
Hangzhou, they provide a fascinating insight into the
history of Chinese traditional products.
One of the most important parts of
traveling is tasting the local delicacies. Hangzhou dishes
are noted for their elaborate preparation, sophisticated
cooking and refreshing taste. Many local specialties will
be sure to make your trip a cultural experience. We
recommend that you try Beggar's Chicken (a chicken baked in
clay), West Lake Fish (vinegar coated fish fresh caught
from the lake), Dongpo Pork (braised pork) and Fried
Shrimps with Longjing Tea, etc.
The shopping
environment in Hangzhou is exciting and convenient.
Travelers and tourists like to go to Qing He Fang Street.
It is one of the most famous and historic streets in the
city and reflects many of the features of the Southern Song
Dynasty (1127-1279). Shoppers will admire the antique
buildings while purchasing items from a wide range of local
goods such as silks, tea or maybe a silk parasol, brocade
or a beautiful Hangzhou fan. These are just some of the
items to be found but there are many more.
At night Hangzhou has much to offer and
teahouses and various kinds of pubs are both plentiful and
popular. Choosing one overlooking the West Lake for a
pleasant chat over a cup of tea is sure to make you feel
totally relaxed and refreshed.
While much of
the ancient city that had been the capital of the Southern
Song Dynasty was destroyed during the Taiping Rebellion in
the mid-nineteenth century, today's Hangzhou is a modern
and vibrant economical center. As such it provides a base
for many talented and skilled people. Never the less,
thanks to its unique setting by the West Lake it continues
to enjoy the many benefits of the natural surroundings that
have delighted visitors for centuries. Not only was it much
vaunted in his writings by the 13
century
explorer, Marco Polo but the Lake and its environs
have inspired poets of great renown such as Bai Juyi
and Su Dongpo down the ages. There can be no doubt
that visit here is certain to be a memorable one.
content from the
Travel China Guide