Hangzhou

Hangzhou is the capital of Zhejiang Province in eastern China and one of its most populous cities. It sits at the southern end of the Grand Canal along the shores of the Qiantang River near the East China Sea. The city is renowned for West Lake, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and for its historic role as a cultural and political center.

History: The area has long been inhabited and rose to prominence as Lin’an, the capital of the Southern Song dynasty from 1127 to 1279. The period fostered cultural and economic flowering that left a lasting imprint on the city. In the modern era, Hangzhou developed into a commercial gateway to the Yangtze Delta and, since the late 20th century, a major center for information technology and services.

Geography and climate: Hangzhou lies in a humid subtropical climate zone with four distinct seasons. The landscape is defined by West Lake and surrounding hills, producing a scenic environment that has shaped its cultural identity and tourism.

Economy: Hangzhou is a national center for technology and e-commerce. It hosts the headquarters of Alibaba Group and many tech firms, with growing finance, logistics, and creative industries. The Hangzhou Bay Area and extensive transport links support regional growth.

Culture and education: The city centers on West Lake, Longjing tea, and historic sites such as Lingyin Temple. Zhejiang University and other institutions anchor higher education in the city, supporting research and innovation.

Transportation: Hangzhou is served by Hangzhou Xiaoshan International Airport and a comprehensive rail and metro network. High-speed trains connect Hangzhou with Shanghai, Nanjing, and other major cities.

Tourism and heritage: Beyond West Lake, Hangzhou offers historic canals, tea plantations, and parks. The West Lake Cultural Landscape is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the city hosts cultural events and conferences.