Explore Hangzhou

Hangzhou, the capital of Zhejiang Province, is often described as China’s most romantic city—famed for its scenic beauty, literary legacy, and cultural depth. Centered around the iconic West Lake, Hangzhou is where classical Chinese aesthetics come to life. Poets and emperors have praised its willow-lined shores, misty waters, and stone bridges for centuries, and today, visitors from around the world come to experience its tranquil charm.

Begin your exploration with a boat ride on West Lake at dawn or sunset. Visit historic spots like Leifeng Pagoda, Su Causeway, and the Broken Bridge—each steeped in legends. Stroll through gardens and parks that inspired ink-wash paintings and classical poetry. Surrounding hills and tea farms offer hikes and quiet retreats, especially in the Longjing (Dragon Well) tea village.

The city also celebrates its heritage through refined cuisine, silk weaving, and calligraphy. Local dishes such as Dongpo pork, beggar’s chicken, and West Lake vinegar fish reflect both delicacy and depth. Museums dedicated to tea, silk, and Chinese medicine invite deeper engagement with the traditions that shaped Hangzhou’s identity.

Yet Hangzhou isn’t frozen in time—it’s also a hub of digital innovation. Home to Alibaba, the city blends natural serenity with high-tech ambition. High-speed rail makes it easily accessible from Shanghai, and its modern amenities cater to both leisure and business travelers.

For those in search of inspiration, romance, and refinement, Hangzhou is a place where China’s artistic spirit is still alive and thriving. It’s a city to slow down, take in the view, and understand why it has long been cherished as one of the country’s cultural treasures.