
1.Brief Introduction
Hangzhou is one of China's most important tourist venues. Hangzhou has a subtropical monsoon type climate with four quite distinct seasons. However, it is neither too hot in summer nor too cold in winter ,which make it a year round destination
Hangzhou was settled as early as 4,700 years ago,it is one of the seven ancient capitals and the key scenic tourism and historical culture cities in China, Hangzhou once was applauded as “the most splendid and luxurious city in the world" by Marco Polo, the Italian traveler in the 13th century.
2.Local Culture
There is an old saying : "In heaven, there is paradise. On earth, there are Suzhou and Hangzhou."The charming westlack attracts many tourists. The city is famed also for two major Chinese inventions - silk and tea.
The native residents of Hangzhou, like those of Zhejiang, speak a Wu dialect.It is a mixture of Northern dialect and Wu dialect which is dated back to the Southern Song dynasty).
3. Shopping and Food
Hangzhou dishes, being the most important part of Zhejiang cuisine, are noted for its elaborate preparations, sophisticated way of cooking and its most refreshing taste. The local specialties include Beggar's Chicken (an entire chicken cooked in a ball of mud), West Lake Fish in Sweet Sour Source (vinegar coated fish from the lake), Dongpo Pork (braised pork) and Fried Shrimps with Longjing Tea Leaves, and many others. Tea is an important part of Hangzhou's economy and culture. Hangzhou is best known for originating Longjing, a famous variety of green tea. Furthermore, there are many types of Longjing tea, the most famous being Xi Hu Long Jing.
4. Entertainment
Hangzhou Longjing Tea (Dragon Well Tea) is considered China's best. If you are interested in tea culture and history, Meijiawu Village in West Lake District is the ideal spot where you can have a cup of tea, watch a tea ceremony, and select tea under professional guidance.
With rich in cultural heritage,Suzhou is also a good choice. Kun opera, Pingtan (a form of storytelling and ballad singing in Suzhou dialect) and Guzheng (a Chinese zither with 25 strings) are the traditional cultural arts of Suzhou. Visitors can visit the Garden of Master of Nets at night to enjoy all three of these classical forms of entertainment. Folk music and dancing and six other artistic performances will provide lasting memories of Suzhou City.
5. Transportation
Hangzhou Xiaoshan International Airport (HGH), is located in Xiaoshan District about 30 kilometers (18.6 miles) away from downtown Hangzhou.There are domestic flight connections with major Chinese cities,and international flights.
National arterial railways connect Hangzhou with cities all around China. Trains from New Train Station or East Train Station reach more than 20 cities directly.
There are four big shuttle bus stations in Hangzhou including East Bus Station, South Bus Station, West Bus Station, and North Bus Station.
6. Climate
Hangzhou is warm and rainy,the average temperature is 15℃-17℃.It is rainy in spring,hot in summer,cool in autumn and not cold in winter.
7. Attraction
West Lake
The lake and its environs have all the elements of a traditional Chinese garden but on a grand scale. Whatever the season, the panorama is pleasing to the eye and the nuances of light shade together with the moods of the weather present an ever-changing picture that justifiably has been described as 'intoxicating'.
Six Harmony Pagoda
The Six Harmonies Pagoda is located on Yuelun Hill overlooking the Qiantang River, and south of West Lake (Xi Hu) and is one of the true masterpieces of ancient Chinese architectures. Originally the pagoda was built during the Northern Song Dynasty (386-581) by the ruler of the Wuyue State.
Linying Temple
The presence of a temple on this site can be traced back to the Eastern Jin Dynasty (317 - 420AD). The Chinese name is translated into English as either "Temple of the Soul's Retreat' or 'Temple of Inspired Seclusion' for the setting has a quiet and beautiful grandeur that encourages a feeling of peace and for contemplation.