Destination:
Hangzhou

Hangzhou, located in the southeastern province of Zhejiang, has been bewitching visitors with its natural beauty for centuries, with even Marco Polo himself declaring it paradise. The city is known for its tranquil and scenic areas, with many beautiful gardens and hills.

The natural beauty of the city's West Lake is considerable, with the surrounding area lush and green and dotted with temples, pavilions and bridges. Admirers can stroll through the gardens, take a boat ride, see the thousands of stone carvings at Lingyin Temple, or admire the scenic view from Baochu Pagoda.

Hangzhou also has a number of interesting museums, including the National Silk Museum and the National Tea Museum. Hangzhou is noted for its tea fields, with its own variety of green tea, Xi Hu Long Jing, being a popular Hangzhou souvenir. The town also has several markets, most notably the Silk Market and Night Market, that are popular for shopping.

Hangzhou is also noted for its cuisine, with specialties like Dongpo Pork, Longjing Shrimp Meat, Steam Rice Flower, and West Lake Sour Fish being popular with both locals and tourists. Hangzhou's nightlife is not as hectic as larger cities in China, however there are a number of bars and restaurants in the city centre, along with karaoke halls, theatres, teahouses and nightclubs.

While you'll find all the modern amenities you'd expect from a city of 3.5 million, the local government's commitment to preserving the cultural beauty of Hangzhou gives visitors a unique glimpse into the rich history of the region.