Hangzhou

Location and History

Hangzhou is a popular Chinese city situated on the Yangtze River delta region roughly about 125 miles Southwest of Shanghai. The city of Hangzhou is contained between the West Lake and the Qiantang River. Hangzhou is the fourth largest city in China and currently has a population of 3.6 million people living there and is famous for its scenic attractions and natural beauty. Hangzhou came into existence about seven thousand years back when areas surrounding it were used for rice cultivation by the Liangzhou culture. Hangzhou was built by the Qin rulers back in the 6th century. Hangzhou was one of the seven ancient capitals of China and had enchanted Marco Polo with its beautiful west lake and he described Hangzhou as a paradise on earth. Hangzhou is known for its rich, vibrant culture and economic prosperity that makes it a competitor to other well-known Chinese cities like Shanghai. Hangzhou attracted scholars, kings and hermits with its unique temple architecture and arts. Hangzhou is visited by more than 20 million tourists annually.

Attractions of Hangzhou

There are several exciting attractions for visitors to enjoy at Hangzhou.

West Lake

The well-known West Lake of Hangzhou began as a lagoon several thousands of years ago but its access to the sea was finally cut off by a deposit of silt, turning into a lake. The West Lake has always been a retreat for China’s royalty as well as an attraction for local people over many centuries. In 2011, West Lake in Hangzhou was established as a World Heritage Site. Its spectacular natural environs as well as architectural splendors make West Lake one of the most attractive destinations of Hangzhou. West Lake is only 5 feet deep and is split up into five different parts.

The Island of Little Oceans

This is a manmade island consisting of four small lakes that are known for their reflections of ‘three moons’’. At night, small lamps are lit in traditional stone lanterns and the lakes appear to reflect the light of three moons; a truly enchanting sight.

Solitary Hill

This natural island is located 125 feet above sea level and stands in its own lonely space on West Lake. Solitary Hill is a wonderful spot to enjoy a panoramic view of West Lake and is also known for interesting architectural attractions. Temple of Soul’s Retreat This is another unique attraction that is located northwest of the West Lake in Hangzhou. According to legend, an Indian Monk by the name of Huili visited there several hundreds of years ago and was entranced by the beautiful region and thought the place was fit for immortal life. The temple is famous for its ‘Hall of the heavenly Kings’ whose walls stretch up a massive 60 feet in height. The ceiling is covered by exquisite paintings of dragons as well as phoenixes. The Hall of the Great Hero has a massive statue of camphor wood of ‘Sakyamuni’ along with 20 saints and 12 guards which makes a spectacular sight.

Running Tiger Spring

This spring in Hangzhou is also called Hupao Spring and lies at the bottom of Daci Mountains. The spring was said to have been dug there by two tigers and hence the spring got its name as ‘’Running Tiger Spring’. Recently, the attractive surrounding of Running Tiger Spring has developed into Running River National Park. The site also houses a striking memorial to Li Shatong, a well-known musician, dramatist and calligrapher.

Six Harmonies Pagoda

The Six Harmonies Pagoda was built over the Qiantang River to quiet its rolling waters. The statuesque pagoda stands on the Yuelun Hill and directly overlooks the waters of the Qiantang River. An imposing 196 feet in height and octagonal in shape, the Six Harmonies Pagoda has seven uniquely painted ceilings to view. The paintings include images of flowers, animals and birds. Other unique features of the Six Harmonies Pagoda include a zigzag corridor and a dual appearance of light and shade; the upper layers appear to be bright while lower layers appear to be darker. The overall effect is that of perfect harmony between light and dark.

Chinese National Silk Museum

The huge exhibition hall located in Hangzhou houses the interesting 5500 year history of Chinese silk manufacture and trade. Silk specimens from every part of China and from every Chinese Dynasty are on display here. Entrance is free and there are wheelchairs available for disabled visitors. You can also opt for an audio guide to explain the various exhibits on display.

Shopping in Hangzhou

Hangzhou is the perfect place to pick up local Chinese goods such as silk and tea. Hangzhou silk comes in 14 different types and is known for its unique texture and quality.

Silk umbrellas (Xihu silk)

Xihu umbrellas are made of bamboo and silk and can double as a parasol as well as a decorative ornament for your home.

Wangxingji paper fans

These are exquisitely decorated hand fans that Hangzhou is particularly famous for. In the past, these fans used to be exclusively made for the members of the royal household.

Longjing tea

Longjing green tea is known for its excellent taste, energizing properties and delicate texture.