Hangzhou
Attractions
Hangzhou (杭州) is in the Zhejiang Province, China. It is one of the most important tourist cities in China, famous for its natural beauty and historical and cultural heritages. It is the political, economic and cultural center of Zhejiang province as well. In Jan, 2016, The New York Times announced the “52 Places to go in 2016” and Hangzhou came in at number 16.
Climate
Hangzhou city also lies within the eastern subtropical monsoon climatic region. The climate is moderate, the average temperature 16.5 degrees Centigrade, and there are four distinct seasons. Although summers can be hot and humid, it’s not entirely unbearable. During the winter, temperatures are similar to that of Southern European countries, which is to say, quite cold but with infrequent snowfall. Spring and Autumn are both considered to be the best seasons for travel in the region.
West Lake
A UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2011, this beautiful lake cover 60 square kilometers, with 90 traditional Chinese gardens and over 60 culturally significant relics. West Lake adds a sense of serenity and peace to the thriving city of Hangzhou, making it a pleasing mix of urban city and tranquil greenery.
Flower Pond
Considered one of the top ten activities in Hangzhou, the Flower Pond, located in West Lake, which allows tourists to visit the thousands of red carp who live there. Su Causeway is the ideal location to view these carp, whilst also taking in the abundant peonies and woodland area surrounding it.
Xixi Wetland Park
Considered one of the most tranquil attractions around Hangzhou, Xixi (pronounced ‘shee shee’) Wetland Park is only 5 kilometers from West Lake, so easily accessible from the city. The best way to experience the wetlands is by boat where you’ll be able to see why so many prolific artists and poets have flocked there to be inspired.
Canals—A thousand years of lasting civilization
Jinghang Grand Canal, at 1’776 kilometers long certainly deserves the ‘grand’; in its title. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2014, the canals construction began as early as the 5th century and some parts of it are still in use today.
Hefang Street
Hefang Street is one the best-preserved examples of ancient Hangzhou and is still a thriving marketplace today. It’s also renowned as a great place to eat, taking inspiration from dishes found all over China, and also cuisine from Hangzhou itself.
NightLife
Impression West Lake
Performed on a floating platform in the middle of lake, the Enduring Memories of Hangzhou is a spectacle not to be missed. Surrounded by the beauty of West Lake take in the beautiful choreography directed by Mr Zhang Yimou who also choreographed the opening and closing ceremonies for the Beijing Olympic games.
