Hangzhou
Hangzhou is
a sub-provincial city located in the Yangtze River Delta in the
People's Republic of China, and the capital of Zhejiang province.
Located 180 kilometers (112 mi) southwest of Shanghai, as of 2004
the entire Hangzhou Region or Prefecture-level city had a registered
population of 6.4 million people.
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 Linyin 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 National 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 in Sweet Sour Source (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 a visit here is certain to be a memorable one.
When traveling to other countries, tasting their local food is a
must do. Hangzhou is no different in this case. They dishes are
traditionally prepared elaborately with sophisticated cooking and a
fresh taste. Their Longjing or Dragon Well tea is also something you
must try before departing from Hangzhou.
Shopping in Hangzhou is like shopping in any other major cities in
China and that of the world. You can find most of your high-end
brand names there, not to mention your local venders that you can
bargain with, as well. The antique buildings are also a popular stop
for those who love shopping in China. You can find good quality
silk, tea, tea sets or maybe a silk parasol.
During the Day we recommend taking one of the boat tours. You will
be able to take a nice cruise on the lake with great picture
opportunities. The cruise operates late as well to show you a
lighted up Hangzhou. You can also see the major temples from the
Lake giving you a different view of the city and the Lake.
On
June 24, 2011, t
he World Heritage Committee has inscribed the
West Lake Cultural Landscape of Hangzhou, comprising the West Lake and the hills surrounding its three sides, on UNESCO’s World
Heritage List.
The night
time in Hangzhou is also very hot. Many teahouses are open late
for your relaxing conversations with your friends, families and
colleagues. Hangzhou, unlike the busy cities such as Shanghai or
Beijing is a place to relax. Looking over the West Lake with a cup
of tea can assure you relaxed stay here.
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