Thousand Islets Lake

Like a shining pearl inlaid in this golden tour line "Hangzhou-Qian Dao Hu (Thousand Islets Lake)-Huang Shan (Yellow Mountain)," Qian Dao Hu (Thousand Islets Lake), situated in Chun'an county 160 km (100 miles) west of Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, is one of forty-four state-level scenic spots and presently China's biggest national park. Every year, millions of visitors both home and abroad will come here to appreciate the unique scenery. With further development in transportation, Qian Dao Hu is about to become one of the best tourist attractions in the world. Qian Dao Hu (Thousand Islets Lake) is a young lake. She is an artificial lake formed as the result of being a reservoir for constructing Xin'an River Waterpower Plant in 1959. Qian Dao Hu (Thousand Islets Lake) is a crystal pure lake. Covering an area of (143, 321 acres), it has a storage capacity of 17.8 billion cubic meters. The average depth of water is 34 meters (112 feet) and the visibility in the water can be reached to 7-9 meters (23-30 feet). According to the national water evaluation standard, the water, which can be drunk directly from the lake, is top ranking.

1000-Island Lake

1000-Island Lake is located in Chun’an County in the west suburb of Hangzhou City in China. The distance to Hangzhou,Huangshan Mountain Scenic Area and Shanghai is 140 km, 150 km and 317 km respectively. With a water surface of 573 km2,the lake is more or less of the same area as Lake Geneva in Switzerland (580 km2). Also, it is the largest national forest park in China.

Hangzhou Safari Park

Hangzhou Safari Park with beautiful mountains and natural-bestowed glory is planned to cover 3500mu, thus is the largest-scaled safari park in Eastern China Region. Here you can seek novelty seeing wild animals appearing and disappearing at liberty on a bus, and can also wander about the park of rare animals full of wilderness. There are white lions, white tigers, leopards rhinoceros etc everything available, and giant pandas, red ibises, golden takins and golden monkeys "Four National Treasures" etc all the lot. From here, you can clearly feel the harmonious beauty of human beings and the nature, human beings and animals. By functions, the park is divided into three big areas such as sightseeing area, services area and zoological buffer etc.

Tianmu Mountain

As a crystal and shining "green jade" casting in the middle of coastal China, Tianmu Mountain NationalNature Reserve sits in the northwest of Tianmu mountain range of Zhejiang Province. It is within the municipality of Lin'an, with the latitude ranging 30°18'30" - 30°24'55" N and the longitude 119°23'47" - 119°28'27" E. The reserve is also at the north edge of central-subtropical zone. It coversan area of 4,284 ha, comprising of a core zone of 676 ha, a buffer zone of 951 ha,anda transition zone of 2,497 ha. About 88.2% of the reserve's area is forest-covered. In 1956, the area was zoned by the Ministry of Forestry of China as a non-logging area. In 1986, the area was approved by the State Council as a national nature reserve. In 1996, it became a member of the UNESCO's "Man and Biosphere Reserve Network".The reserve hasmoved onto the new arena of international collaborations ever since.

Hangzhou Xixi National Wetland Park

Xixi National Wetland Park located in the west outskirts of Hangzhou, less than 5km from West Lake covering an area of 3.46 square kilometers for the first-phase project is the rare urban secondary wetland. Xixi National Wetland Park features abundant ecological resources, beautiful natural scenes and rich cultural heritages. It ranks one of the "Three Xi" in Hangzhou along with West Lake and Xiling Seal Society. At present Xixi Wetland is the first and the only national wetland park of China, which represents urban wetland, farming wetland and cultural wetland.

Gu Shan (Solitary Hill)

Are you eager to know the story of 'Plum wife and crane son'? Lin Bu, also called Lin Hejing, was a real hermit and a talented poet in the Northern Song Dynasty (960-1127). Besides composing poems and paintings, he spent all his spare time planting plum trees and raising cranes. He didn't get married all his life, and as a result, people took plum blossom as his wife and considered cranes his children. The place he lived in seclusion was called Gu Shan. Gu Shan, situated at the northwestern corner of West Lake, is 38 meters (about 125 feet) above sea-level, and covers an area of 300 mu (nearly 50 acres). It is the lowest summit, compared to other hills around West Lake, but it is also the biggest island in the lake, and the only natural island as well. Gu Shan got this name because it is surrounded by water, standing solitarily in West Lake. It can also be called Solitary Island, for it is a lonely island; rather than a hill. Its other name: Plum Blossom Island, originates from the flourishing plum blossom planted on the hill. Gu Shan boasts of beautiful landscapes. It is bordered by Bai Causeway on the east, Xi Ling Bridge on the west, the Outer West Lake on the south, and the Inner West Lake on the north. Autumn Moon over the Calm Lake, one of the ten scenes of the West Lake; is formed on the boundary of Gu Shan and Bai Causeway. Gu Shan is an ideal place to enjoy the beauty of West Lake.

In addition, there are a lot of cultural relics in the scenic area. At the south foot lies Zhejiang Museum, Wen Lan Pavilion (attracting many literati), and Zhongshan Park in the middle of the hill. The park was rebuilt on the site of an imperial garden of the Qing Dynasty, and was opened in 1927 to commemorate Sun Yat-sen, the great leader of the Xinhai Revolution in 1911. At the west foot is Fang He Pavilion, which is related to Lin Bu and his story 'Plum wife and crane son', and the Tomb of Qiu Jin, a great female revolutionist at the end of the Qing Dynasty. On the top of the hill, there is Xi Ling Seal Society, dedicated to the study of seals. This area also includes Cypress Hall, Bamboo Pavilion and Si Zhao Pavilion. The best time to visit Gu Shan is in winter or in early spring, for at this time, you can enjoy the plum blossom as well as the usual sights

Ling Yin Temple (Temple of Soul's Retreat)

You will find Ling Yin Temple in a long, narrow valley between Fei Lai Feng (Peak flown from Afar) and North Peak to the northwest of the West Lake at Hangzhou in Zhejiang Province. The temple is without doubt a premier showpiece in the West Lake environs and is notable also as one of the ten most famous Buddhist temples of China. In 1961 the temple was listed for protection as a key provincial historical and cultural site and is considered a leading centre for research relative to Chinese Buddhist culture. The presence of a temple on this site can be traced back to the Eastern Jin Dynasty (317 - 420AD) when, according to local legend, Huili an Indian monk came to the area where he was inspired by the spiritual nature of the scenery to be found here. To his mind this had to be a dwelling of the Immortals and so he gave the temple a name "Ling Yin (Temple of the Soul's Retreat).

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. The temple was to gain in importance during the Five Dynasties (907-960 AD) when the King of the Wu Yue State initiated a large-scale development of the temple as a sign of his devotion to Buddha. In its heyday, the temple comprised nine buildings, eighteen pavilions, seventy-seven palaces and halls with over thirteen hundred rooms providing accommodation for around three thousand monks. A monastery on this scale is difficult to imagine and needless to say over the centuries it has been subjected to many changes of fortune due to wars, religious repression and other calamities. The main temple that can be seen today is a result of the restoration that was carried out in 1974 following the ten-year Chinese Cultural Revolution

Hangzhou Grand Canal

The Grand Canal, 1,764 km (about 1200 miles) in length, is the longest man-made waterway as well as being the greatest in ancient China, far surpassing the next two grand canals of the world: the Suez and Panama Canals. Running from Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province in the south to Beijing in the north of China and connecting different river systems, the Grand Canal contributed greatly to ensure that the Chinese primary economy thrived in past dynasties. Now more than 2000 years old, some parts of the canal are still in use, mainly functioning as a water-diversion conduit. The canal we see today was built section by section in different areas and dynasties before it was linked together by the Sui Dynasty (581-618). In 604 AD, Emperor Yangdi of the Sui Dynasty toured Luoyang (now the city in Henan Province). The following year, he moved the capital to Luoyang and ordered a large-scale expansion of the Grand Canal. The primitive building techniques stretched the project over six years. Approximately half the peasant builders (about 3,000,000) died of hard labor and hunger before it was finished.

This project was thought to have been wasteful of manpower and money, which resulted in the downfall of the Sui Dynasty. As a major transportation hinge in past dynasties, the Grand Canal interconnected the Yangtze, Yellow, Huaihe, Haihe, and Qiantang Rivers and flowed through Beijing, Tianjin, Hebei, Shandong, Jiangsu and Zhejiang with Hangzhou at its southernmost end. The Grand Canal, which joined the river systems from different directions, offered much facility to transport foods and goods from south to north in past times. Just as importantly,it greatly improved the administration and defense of China as a whole and strengthened economic and cultural intercourse between north and south. Boating on the old Chinese Canal is one of the best ways to get a panoramic view of the landscape of typical river towns in southern China, which include ancient dwellings, stone bridges of traditional designs and historical relics. Experiencing some of the local customs offers much delight to travelers. Tourists also have an opportunity to enjoy good food while appreciating the surrounding scenery. Like the Great Wall, the Grand Canal is noted as one of the most magnificent and wondrous constructions in ancient China, which can really offer one a profound look into China's fascinating, historical past. Bus Route: K4, 504

Yellow Dragon Cave

The Yellow Dragon Cave situated on the rear hill of Xixialing (Rosy Clouds Hill) in West Lake tourist zone in Hangzhou City. Although called "cave", it is actually a yard. It is a well-known place of interest in Hangzhou City. The gate of the Yellow Dragon Cave is very simple, on which inscribed with an antithetical couple. The scenes in the yard are half-artificial and half natural. The main scenic spot in the yard are Pavilion of Fragrant Snow, Pavilion of Standing Crane, and a dragonhead molded on a cliff. The dragon's head is the hero of the yard. Spring water comes out of the dragonhead and flows into the pond below. Beside the pond stands a stone, on which inscribed with eight Chinese characters meaning, "If there is dragon in the pond, it will be charming. So, the depth of the pond is unimportant". The Bamboo Garden, which is opposite the Vermilion Corridor, is unique in the Yellow Dragon Cave. In the garden grows a great variety of bamboo, such as 33-meters high mao bamboo, several-inch-high white bamboo, purple bamboo, green bamboo with golden dots, square bamboo and so on. While seeing so many kinds of bamboo, you will gasp in admiration for the superlative craftsmanship of the nature.

The Yellow Dragon Cave is simple but elegant yard. It lays out as an antique park by the Hangzhou local government. There are teahouse, wine shop, theater, Terrace of Praying for Rain, and other ancient entertainment. After visiting the yard, you can also taste the local flavors, such as Tianhua Steamed Stuffed Dumplings, Ten-Flavor Dumpling Soup, Steam Cake, and so on. People said that these flavors were very popular in Song Dynasty (960 ~ 1279A.D.). You can also listen to the ancient Chinese music in the pavilion. This antique yard can make your travel more interesting. History The Yellow Dragon Cave relates with two legendary figures in history. One is Lord Huangshi in Qin Dynasty (248 ~ 207B.C.). The old man saw Zhang Liang coming up and deliberately kick off his shoes and asked Zhang Liang to wear for him. The Cave of Immortal Huang in the yard was specially built for people to commemorate him. Another figure is the Founder of the Yellow Dragon Cave. According to the legend, the founder was monk Huikai who left Jiangxi Province and came to Xixiashan to expound the Buddhism. Huikai founded the yard so that the devotees to Buddha could come here to listen to him to expound the scriptures of Buddhism.

Longjing Tea Plantation

A nice break from the lake is the Longjing tea plantation area. Hidden away in the southwest corner of the lake are some secluded walks and the village of Longjing itself. Longjing actually means, "Dragon Well" and according to legend, the Dragon Well was discovered in about 230AD!! This fresh spring water encouraged the people of Hangzhou to develop their own quality tea, and thus Longjing tea was born. The dominant thing here is tea! Whether it be drinking, picking, smelling or buying. A trip to the village of Longjing is a 30 minute cycle ride and most of the hotels in Hangzhou have bikes for hire. Tea terraces rise up on either side of the village and it's an interesting area to walk around and watch the locals at work. So many places here have tea for sale and it is difficult to recommend which type or flavor is best. Prices for the tea range from RMB500 for one kilo to RMB10,00 per kilo!! But you can buy a nice tea for between RMB500 and RMB2000. The best thing to do is to sample as many as you can (some of the locals will invite you in if you are lucky) and then make your decision!

Hangzhou Botanical Garden

Covering an area of about 230 hectares (approx. 568 acres), the Hangzhou Botanical Garden can be found at the foot of Jade Spring Hill in the northwest end of West Lake. It was originally built in 1965, and is not only a park in which to feast your eyes on beautiful plants, but also a research base where fields such as the cultivation of plants and protection of environment are studied. The garden has wonderful scenery and an excellent environment. It is beautiful, with decorative architecture including pavilions and kiosks. Verdant trees, colorful and lovely flowers, and extremely fresh air seem to bring people into a world full of the pleasure of natural beauty. The garden is divided into two main sections: the research section and the pleasure gardens. The research section is where the cultivation of plants and protection of the environment are being studied. The pleasure gardens are divided into gardens including the Botany Classification Garden, Botany Appreciation Garden, Bamboo Garden, Garden of Economic Plants, Plant Resources Museum, and the Medicinal Garden. In the Botany Appreciation Garden, the 'Lingfeng Tanmei' in the Botanical Garden is an excellent scene that really catches tourists' eyes: Over 5,000 plum trees are standing upright. When winter comes, the majestic and charming picture of plum trees stretching up, towards the cold wind and snowflakes falling onto plum blossoms is an amazing sight. Each garden has unique features.

The Bamboo Garden is special and interesting: A kind of bamboo named Damaozhu grows very fast - reaching 1 meter (approx. 3 feet) in height during one night and growing as tall as a three-stories building during one month. Some bamboos are small like grass, and some have spots on stems. In the Garden of Economic Plants, plants are visible which can be used to produce fiber, medicine, flavors, or special kinds of industrial materials. They provide tourists not only with the wonderful scenery of flourishing trees but also an ideal place for summering. Some entertainment facilities in the botanic garden offer tourists a chance to relax to their hearts content. No matter what season it is, the garden will give tourists endless pleasure. The beautiful Yulan trees in spring, the leisure hours spent viewing the lotus or on the hammock forest in summer, the fragrance of sweet-scented-osmanthus in autumn, the pines and bamboos which are still green and vigorous in winter add great pleasure to any visit here. Admission Fee: CNY 10 for adults, CNY 5 for children (under 1.3 meters high) Opening Hours: 7:00 - 17:00 Bus Routes: 82, 15, 28 and 7

Mausoleum of General Yue Fei

Yue Fei (1103 - 1141) came from Tangyin in Xiangzhou of today's Henan Province. He was a great general famous for wars against the Jin Dynasty (1115 - 1234) in the Song Dynasty (960 - 1279). After he joined the army, he and his troops continuously won wars against the Jin. However, after Yue and his army had recovered most of the lost territory, Emperor Gaozong (1107 - 1187) embraced the evil plot of Qin Kuai (1090 - 1155, Prime Minister of the Song Dynasty) and surrendered to the Jin. As a result, Yue Fei was falsely accused and later secretly killed in jail. A few years later, the wrong was put right when Emperor Xiao Zong (1163 - 1189) came to power. The Mausoleum of General Yue Fei was built in memory of this great hero. Yue Fei is always considered as a national hero. The Mausoleum of General Yue Fei has been demolished and renovated several times. The existing one was rebuilt in 1715 in the Qing Dynasty (1644 - 1911) and comprehensively repaired in 1979. Occupying an area of four acres, the Mausoleum of General Yue Fei is located at the southern foot of Qixia Hill near the West Lake. Entering the gate with double eaves, a patio with towering trees on both sides is found. The Shrine of Remembrance, the main hall, is right in the center. A sculpture of general Yue is set in the middle of the hall. He is in a colorful embroidered round cushion cover. Looking solemn and mighty, he has a sword in his hand and looks as if he is ready to protect his country. Over the sculpture is tablet in the original handwriting of Yue Fei, which states returning our territory and keeping it integrated. At the back of the hall are large pictures depicting Yue Fei's life stories. On the floor of the hall is a picture depicting 373 cranes. These cranes are the symbols of his integrity and faithful mind. To the west of the main hall is a yard.

There are two corridors exhibiting poems written to commend Yue Fei. Striding over the bridge in the middle of the yard, there are the tombs of Yue Fei and his son's. Yue Fei's tomb is right in the center, and to its left is the tomb of his son Yue Yun who had been a competent assistant of his father on the battlefields. Stone horses, tigers, and sheep of the Ming Dynasty (1386 - 1644) decorate both sides of the enclosure. This tomb, which had been destroyed several times, was rebuilt and possesses the features of the Song Dynasty. Facing the tomb are four iron sculptures, including Qin Kuai the chief plotter, in kneeling position. Concerning these sculptures, people wanted them to atone for their crime forever. Admission Fee: CNY 25 Opening Hours: 06:00-18:30 Bus Route: 7, 15, 27, 28, Tourist Bus 1, 2, 3, 4, 5...

India Three Temples

Hides from the spirit to the fontanel mountain, the perimeter ten miles, all called for the India Mountain. Hides the very close Western Paradise wall screening a gate from the spirit along the India brook but on, is in turn under India, center India, on India, has the India incense market and name of the India paradise. Conceals one's abilities can see the sea, India then view mountain. Wanders about the India Mountain, what is most attractive is all around mountain range beautiful color. Hides from the spirit gathers nearby the gorge bridge to follow road to come, the mountain color like a row painted screen, the cliff is steep and valley is deep, bends the gorge gurgling, the mountain mist cloud shadow moves fast from time to time, extremely rich wooded mountain rural feeling. The famous mountain peak has mystical powers the vulture peak, the lotus flower peak, the bay peak, detains the peak, the China and India peak, Rudou peek, the white clouds peak, the India peak. The India peak split-blip truncates stands, shape with fontanel, therefore Hang Human also calls it the fontanel mountain. It is height 455 meters, name of the Xihu first peak, it is the Xihu hills prominent peak. On India has the many old trees famous wood, like buckeye, Chinese sweet gum, purple cedar, Huang Tan, Siberian elm and so on. India Mountain the strange stone are more wonderful, area the lotus flower peak mountain stone, crystal clear, exquisite, delicate and pretty is especially incomparable. Hides from the spirit "is unbearable" the wall screening a gate to walk 500 meters along the India brook to permit, then is under the India temple, other name law mirror temple. Law mirror temple history most glorious in Sanzhu temple, founds is Xianhe five years in the Eastern Jin Dynasty (330), handed down each still constructs by the Indian Huili .

In the present temple has the Tianwang palace, the round copper coin palace, the pharmacist world field three enters palace. The law mirror temple presently for the Hangzhou only nun temple, now still at restores during the extension. Center the India temple is located detains under the peak, to law mirror temple approximately 500 meters, other name law clean temple. Now, center India temple Buddhism again opens, in the present temple has the original Tianwang palace, AnYang palace, three temples and so on, is in vogue the religious activities, and also is a Xihu big monastery. On India temple other name law happy temple, to center India approximately 1 kilometer. India three temples by law happy temple area biggest, building grand, the layout are dignified. In the temple the palace are very many, besides the main hall, has the austere meter pavilion, a night of lecture room, the white clouds hall, two peaks halls, the snow slope porch and so on.

The temple all around has the white clouds peak, the white clouds spring, Rudou peek, and scenic spot and so on. The white clouds peak white clouds tea once was the Southern Song Dynasty annual tribute from a tributary country Xihu famous tea. In Song Dynasty Yuanyou, SuDongpo takes the post of Hangzhou governor of prefecture, once several times traveling, leaves behind "Rain Middle reaches India Inspiration Goddess of Mercy Courtyard" and so on the poem. Song Dynasty ZhuXi, LuZuqian, Daifugu, Yuan Dynasty ZhaoMeng, NiZan and so on had traveled the India poem. Song Dynasty anti- gold hero YueFei "Turns over to go to Line in On India Temple Partner Topic" the poem is magnificent, is exerted the human feeling. In the present temple has assistance and so on main hall and room, reception room uses the room, casts 5 tons half heavy big copper clock, and is reconstructing the Tianwang Heaven palace and the rear palace.

Six Harmonies Pagoda (Liuhe 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, a part of which became Zhejiang Province. The name 'Liuhe' comes from the six Buddhist ordinances and it is said that the reason for building this pagoda is to calm the tidal waters of the Qiantang River, and as a navigational aid. However, the pagoda was completely destroyed during a battle in the year 1121. The current pagoda was constructed of wood and brick during the Southern Song Dynasty (420-589), and subsequently, during the Ming (1368-1644) and Qing Dynasties (1644 -1911), additional exterior eaves were added to the pagoda. It is octagonal in shape and some 59.89 meters (196 feet) in height, it also has the appearance of being a thirteen-story structure, though it only has seven interior stories.

There is a spiral staircase leading to the top floor and upon each of the seven ceilings are carved and painted figures including animals, flowers, birds and characters. Each story of the pagoda consists of four elements, the exterior walls, a zigzagged corridor, the interior walls and a small chamber. Viewed from outside, the pagoda appears to be layered-bright on the upper surface and dark underneath. That is a harmonious alternation of light and shade. Upon ascending the pagoda, visitors will have a spectacular view of the Qiantang River Bridge spanning the surging tides of the Qiantang River. Near by the Six Harmonies Pagoda an exhibition center detailing ancient pagodas in China was set up in recently upon Yuelun Hill. So visitors can visit the Six Harmonies Pagoda and then learn of the various ancient pagodas architectural styles to be found within China. Admission Fee: CNY 30 (including CNY 10 for pagoda climbing) Bus Route: K808, K599, 504 Tourism Bus No. 5

Feilai Peak

Feilai Peak stands in front of the Ling Yin Temple in Hangzhou City, Zhejiang Province. There are many legends about the peak’s name. One of the most popular legends goes that an Indian monk once came to the valley, was very surprised to see the shape of the peak was very similar to one in India, and also that kind of peak is rarely seen in China. He therefore insisted that the peak was flown over to china from India. To fortify his statement, he said, there were two monkeys in one cave of the mountain. When the two monkeys finally were found, the Feilai (‘Flown over’ peak’s name was created.

Feilai Peak, unlike any other surrounding mountains, has various caves formed through underground water erosion, such as the Dragon cave, Yuru cave and the Shexu cave, each with its own legendary story Multifarious grotesque stones with various shapes on the peak, like charming dragons, running elephants, prostrate tigers and frightened monkeys make the peak like a zoo of stone animals.

Feilai Peak faces the southern slope of the Lingyin Temple, scattered with more than 340 Buddhist stone statues, and many rare grotto arts in the southern area of the Yangtze River, which can compare beauty with the Dazu cave in Sichuan province. The most noticeable feature is the Buddhist image Maitreya with a smiling face, bare breast and belly; the biggest stone statue on the Feilai Peak as well as a representative of Song dynasty art.

Qiantang River Bore

Qiantang River is the biggest in Zhejiang Province, running from the west to Hangzhou Bay in the east. It serves as a river hinge, playing an important role in the water-transportation between the east and the west. It is encircled by a group of economically booming cities including Shanghai, China's leading industrial and commercial hub, and Ningbo, one of China's leading port cities. The extraordinary surging tide of the Qiantang River is a world-renowned natural wonder caused by the gravitational pull of the stars and planets. The centrifugal force produced by the rotation of the earth and by the peculiar bottleneck shape of Hangzhou Bay makes it easy for the tide to come in, but difficult for it to ebb. The soaring tide of the Qiantang River is such a marvelous spectacle that only the Amazon River's surging tide rivals it! Annually, millions of people from both home and abroad flock there to watch the magnificent tide on the eighteenth day of the eighth lunar month (also around the Mid-Autumn Day). When the surging tide comes, the water can rise up to a height of 30 feet and the noise it generates sounds like thunder, or thousands of horses running. Various activities will also be held to celebrate the annual Tide - Watching Festival, according to local custom. In terms of its history, the custom of watching the bore tide has happened for more than 2000 years. It first appeared during the first century. Then, it became popular in the Tang Dynasty (about 7th -13th century).

Yangong town in Haijing 45 km (about 28 miles) from Hangzhou is the best place to watch the Qiantang Tide. The rushing tide can be dangerous if you are careless.So it's best to listen to the advice of the local policemen there whose job it is to ensure your safety and security. Crossing the river is the Qiantang River Bridge. It is China's first self-designed and self-built bridge, which took from April 1934 to Sept 1937 to complete. Qiantang River Bridge is comprised of its main body and the bridge approach, stretching a distance of 1453 meters (4767 feet). It is also the first modern double - layer bridge in China. The upper layer of the bridge is highway and the layer below is railway. Qiantang River Bridge is designed by the famous Chinese bridge engineer Mao Yisheng, who defied the words spoken by foreigners that it was impossible to construct a bridge in such a spot, and who made a great contribution to the Chinese bridge building industry. Looking out from the Six Harmonies Pagoda, one can get a panoramic view of the mighty Qiantang River, the majestic Qiantang River Bridge, and the surrounding landscape.

National Tea Museum

China is the birthplace of tea with the longest history of tea culture. Today tea culture is a bright pearl in traditional Oriental culture. The National Tea Museum opened in Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province in 1991. It is located in Longjing (Dragon Well) Village, west of charming West Lake, and covers an area of 22,000 square meters (about 5.4 acres) with a 3500 square meter (about 0.9 acres) construction area. This museum is the only one in China with the tea theme. The museum has no external walls but is enclosed by vegetation giving the unique impression that the halls and the tea in the museum depend upon each other. Additionally, one hundred distinctive Chinese characters relating to tea are enchased in the road to add color to your trip.

The museum is comprised of four groups of buildings which display the history and development of tea in China. The exhibition building is divided into six halls to show the history of growing and processing tea in China. They are the Hall of Tea History, the Kaleidoscope Hall, the Hall of Tea Properties, the Tea-friendship Hall, the Tea Sets Hall, and the Tea Customs Hall. Here, different halls illuminate different aspects of tea and its culture in China’s long history. The Tea Customs Hall is recommended. Here visitors can discover the great impact of tea on the lives of various Chinese minority groups. The Kaleidoscope Hall features more than three hundred kinds of tea, including the six basic types of tea in China including some reprocessed teas. To learn more about these kinds of tea, take a digital earphone prepared by the museum. Besides functioning as a museum, here is also a research institution which often holds conferences on tea and its culture. This work has received much attention from government as well as other sectors of society. In the museum, visitors also have opportunities to see a tea art performance and drink teas in a calm and quiet place. Admission Fee: Free Bus Routes: 27, Tourism Bus No. 3

The Museum of Province of Zhejiang

This is comprehensive humane Science Museum relying mainly on history relic, located in the centre of the scenic spot of West Lake of Hangzhou, it is located in the fatherless mountain path of West Lake district of Hangzhou. This hall was set up on the basis of fair of the West Lake in November of 1929, is named in the museum of the West Lake of province of Zhejiang at first, the beginning changed into a present name in 1971. Museum is one rich the South garden place characteristic courtyard building extremely, divide the districts of the six halls into together, mainly have historical exhibition hall, celadon hall, coin hall, craft hall, hall of calligraphy and painting of Zhejiang, etc.; In addition, gentle billows pavilion ancient building District as the field that is exhibited temporarily, hold various exhibitions often already now. Collection of the museum of province of Zhejiang is up to more than 100,000. The kind has stone implement, pottery, jade article, wooden furniture, bone angle tooth device, porcelain, bronze, lacquer ware, and calligraphy and painting, folk art, etc., have given that makes a fresh start at the Stone Age (Hemudu culture, Majiabang culture, Songze culture, culture of Liangchu), to the civilized history in modern times.

The most characteristic ones are the Neolithic Age historical relic and past dynasties celadon. Hemudu site of ancient culture which 7000 year ago are remains unearthed bone Si, corn, textile tool, paint bowl, etc. are all very rare. Calligraphy and painting yuan Huanggongwang "the mountain occupies and pursue in rich spring "t, painter of acting, in the collection, the name is raised home and abroad. The works of modern painter WuChangShuo, Huangbinhong etc. are very large in amount of collection; the works of the Huangbinhong are up to more than 1000 alone. The historical relic is the most abundant in the Taiping Heavenly Kingdom period (the middle period of the 19th century) at modern times. Modern writer precious calligraphy and paintingthat XiaYan collect in recent years, Enter 1995 hall exceed king purport on (The left eye iseasy in right) the sword has caused the internal and external sensation especially

Southern Song Dynasty Guan Kiln Museum

China is a country with a rich tradition of pottery and porcelain. The history of pottery can be traced back through 8,000 years, while porcelain in China has a history over 2,000 years. During the Song Dynasty (960-1279), this culture came to a climax. A variety of chinaware appeared. Particularly representative of that time are the products of the guan kiln. Guan kilns are the official kilns which produce the high-class chinaware for royalty - either for daily use or decoration. It is recorded that there were two guan kilns in the Southern Song Dynasty (1127-1279): Jiaotanxia Guan Kiln and Xiuneisi Guan Kiln. Lying to the south of West Lake, Southern Song Dynasty Guan Kiln Museum has a floor area of 15,000 square meters (3.7 acres). The building area is 4,364 square meters (1.1 acres). It is built over the remains of Jiaotanxia Guan Kiln and is the first museum with pottery and porcelain as its subject in China. It was opened to public in 1992 and was extended in 2002. Now the museum displays the products of the guan kilns of Southern Song Dynasty, highlighting their charm and delicate beauty. It has been praised as the Civilized Museum of Zhejiang Province and the first group of Provincial Education Base of Patriotism.

The museum consists of two parts: the exhibition area and the guan kiln relic. There are three rooms in the exhibition area. In the first exhibition room, many delicate chinaware treasures of past dynasties unearthed in Hangzhou are on display. While in the second room, one can study the history of China's ceramics as well as the social, political and economic base and development after the establishment of guan kilns in Southern Song Dynasty. And in the third one, visitors can see the fruits of research on the ancient porcelain of China and the products in imitation of the famous products of kilns made by modern technology. Now, over 8,000 restored chinaware samples dug up from the site are on display in the exhibition area. Jiaotanxia Guan Kiln was firstly discovered in 1930, but was only serious excavated in the mid 1980s. Of particular interest are the pugging pond, the shaping workshop and the Dragon Kiln. Modern technology is so advanced that ancient pieces can be fully restored, making a visit well worthwhile for the visitor. As a part of Jiaotanxia Guan Kiln, the Dragon Kiln clings to a slope with a total length of 40.3 meters (44 yards). The kiln was built with adobes whose profile is still visible. The remains of Dragon Kiln in the protection corridor have stairs on both sides.

The visitors can climb the steps to appreciate the fantastic site. In the Southern Song Dynasty Guan Kiln Museum, there is a pottery bar with a unique style. Visitors can see for themselves how pottery was made long ago. They can also have the experience of making their own pottery, and so enter into the hardship and exhilaration that must have been the lot of people in long-ago times. Admission Fee: Free of charge Opening Hours 8:30-16:30 ( From Tuesday to Sunday) Bus Route: 20, 809, 39, 308

Museum of Traditional Chinese Medicine

The Museum of Traditional Chinese Medicine is the only state-level professional Chinese medicine museum in China. It is seated at the foot of Wu Hill in Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province. The museum is housed in the restored ancient structure-Hu Qing Yu Tang, meaning that it is also known as Hu Qing Yu Tang Museum of Traditional Chinese Medicine. Hu Qing Yu Tang was a Chinese pharmacy which began business in 1874. It had won a great fame during its development. People regarded it as the 'King of Medicine' in southern China. Hu Xueyan, the first boss of the pharmacy, was not only a successful businessman but also a high-class official in the imperial court. In China's feudal society, people doing business were widely looked down upon whereas state officials were highly respected. Many tourists are attracted to the Hu Qing Yu Tang Museum to not only appreciate the treasures of Chinese medicine, but also to admire its magnificent architect, ural complexities and to learn more about Hu's legendary stories.

The museum consists of five parts: the Exhibition Hall, the Medicine Preparation Hall, the Chinese Health Care Clinic, the Restaurant of Medicinal Diet a, nd the Sales Department. The Exhibition Hall introduces the development of Chinese medicine, including its origin, , the life of well-known doctors in its long history, famous books of medical science and China's medicine exchange with foreign countries, etc. In the Medicine Preparation Hall, the museum's staff also performs the arts of traditional pharmaceutics. If you are interested, you can even try it yourself. In the Chinese Health Care Clinic, visitors have the opportunity to receive Chinese-style health care served by experienced doctors. The Restaurant of Medicinal Diet provides visitors with numerous medicinal diets which are good for human health. The Sales Department sells Chinese medicine from almost all parts of China. Admission Fee: CNY 10 Opening Hours: 8:30--16:00 Bus Route: 8, 155

China National Silk Museum

Located on the bank of beautiful West Lake, the China National Silk Museum is the first national silk-themed museum in China and also the biggest professional silk museum in the world. It opened to the public on February 26, 1992, with an area of 5 hectares and exhibition space of 3,000 square meters.

China National Museum displays the modern condition of the the Chinese silk culture, and is composed of eight halls, namely the Prelude Hall, Relics Hall, Folk Custom Hall, Silkworm Hall, Silk Manufacturing Hall, Weaving Hall, Dying Hall, as well as the Achievement Hall. The major first five halls narrate the story of Chinese silk including the origin and development of silk, the main types of silk, the Silk Road, as well as the significant role that silk played in ancient society and life, while the Waving Hall, Dying Hall and Achievement Hall mainly exhibit the developing process of the old weaving machines and the splendid achievement of the silk manufacturing, studying and foreign trade since the foundation of the People’s Republic of China (in 1949). There are also temporary exhibition halls in the museum holding various special exhibitions.

With its elegant and graceful environment, the China National Silk Museum is surrounded by lush greenery, small bridges and running waters. The museum also has five distinctive silk shops, a canteen, teahouse, and other subsidiary facilities; an ideal place to quietly relax.

China Grand Canal Museum

Chinese Grand Canal Museum is situated in the Gongchen bridge district in the northern part of Hangzhou .It extends from Jinhua Road in the east to Zhoushan Road in the south ,neighbouring the Beijing-Hangzhou Grand Canal in the west .To the north ,it is the Gongshu district government .Besides,on the west side of the museum locates the ancient Gongchen bridge.The museum covers an area of 42,910m2(including the Canal Culture Square),in which the building area reaches 10,700m2.The general orientation of the architectural style is :traditional but not restore ancient ways. The buildings unfold around the Canal Culture Squre as fan-shaped,combining with the flat and slope design ,adopting Chinese ancient traditional architecture figures in the detailed aspect.After abstracting and simplifying,through distinctive opend structure style ,artully making the canal,bridges,ships and port as vivid exhibits according to its advantageous location.

The museum is mainly based on the first fool while second floor and the basement are also in use.The first floor is the section for museum's routine exhibition ,with four halls in all and an exhibition corridor .The second floor is mainly used as reference rooms,audiovisual rooms,offices and semi-scenery exhibition hall.

Chinese Grand Canal Museum is not only an ordinary and common-meant museum.On the one hand ,it is a large-sized museum which reflects and shows the Grand Canal's natural peculiarities and humanistic quintessences from omnidirection and multi-visual angles;On the other hand ,it is not only a center for the collection of relics ,documentary and materials of Grand Canal,but also the research and exhibition center of Canal Culture.Meanwhile,combining the function of Canal Culture Squre ,the museum is also a central pivot for Canal tourism and a comprehensive service center for tourists.So Chinese Grand Canal Museum can be described as a comprehensive canal culture center with multi-functions and multi-characters.

Zhijiang River Country Traveling Resort Area

River of country traveling resort area Hangzhou is the State Council authorizes the establishment one of 12 countries traveling resort areas. Resort area is located southwest the Hangzhou city, south is close to Qiantang River, north depends on five Yunshan, the total area is 9.88 square kilometers. In the area the tall bamboos verdant green, the forest dense, the scenery beautiful, the environment is quiet and tasteful; The mountaineering looks out into the distance, static beauty of the Xihu, the river is grand, gets a panoramic view; But under, may watch along the river excels by far the ancient and modern the Qiantang river tide; Traces the river but on, also may see to the full a two rivers and lake and mountain scenery complementing each other, for Xihu and a two rivers scenery scenic spot best intersection. To 1998 year's end, resort area accumulated introduction investment project is 23, foreign sole ownership project is 6, Chinese-foreign joint venture project is 12, and domestic capital project is 5. Completes the floor space are 235,000 square meters, the development land area are 4.21 square kilometers. Will unfold the Chinese Southern Song Dynasty culture "the Song city", the high tech subject park "the future world", traveling project and so on international standard golf course foreign has received a guest, becomes the domestic and foreign tourists to come the Hangzhou traveling new hot spot.

Flower-Printed Blue Cloth Workshop

Chinese flower-printed blue cloth is well-known throughout the world, and Wuzhen is one of the principal source areas of the blue print cloth. The Hongyuantai Workshop, established in the Song Dynasty (960-1126), was originally situated in Nanzha, and latterly relocated to its present location. This was principally because Wuzhen was the manufacturing base of blue print cloth and also an important distribution center of flowed-printed blue cloth products at that time.

Blue print cloth, commonly referred to as “embossed blue cloth”, is a Chinese traditional folk handicraft, with a history of about 1,000 years. Legend has it that this craft was originated by a farmer for his wife and quickly became popular among the local populace due to its low cost and high quality. The material cloth and dye, as well as the manufacturing craft are all originated in countryside, and, as a result, the patterns of the blue print cloth are full of intense local colour, while the and subject matter usually depicts such countryside motifs as lowers, grass on the side of farmhouse and rice fields. Blue print cloths are natural, fresh and clean and, along with the elegant blue and white colours, make the product vibrant and original, often outshining other folk arts and crafts. Local people strictly follow the original methods of production and design to this day, from design, dermatoglyphic patterning, embossment, dyeing, to insolation when printing and dyeing the blue print cloth itself. Such adherence to the original manufacturing craft means that it is as beloved today as it was at its inception.

American City

The Hangzhou US city is the Hangzhou biggest recreation center, also is Chinese first as soon as displays American the humanities and the natural landscape for the subject park. it is the Song city group continues Song Cheng, the Hangzhou paradise, the Tianquan ecology garden, the inhabitant of a mountain family, the Marco Polo subject park as soon as works hard to devote oneself to, total investment is 180 million Yuan. On September 23, 1998 began officially. The Hangzhou US city passes through the ingenious idea layout, fused US most to have the characteristic the construction, the culture, the natural landscape and the entertainment facility. Mainly has Lively Disney Christmas street, from the material quality to the repair all same 1:1 White House, welcome the state guest the south lawn, grand magnificent president the mountain, the warm romantic Cupid post office, to wind the winding drift river, the sacred dignified marriage celebrates the church, the simple mystical Indian village, like poem like imaginary Hawaii, unique sprightly joyful fort and straight thrust vault of heaven scenic spot and Washington monument and so on. Will welcome the tourist from the entrance the small orchestra to play the ceremony to start, each kind of unusually brilliant performance will be able to make you to be eyes cannot to back, In "the Disney Christmas street -- Washington monument -- White House square" on this loop line, charming humorous Chaplin, the naive lovable cartoon character, rode a horse the western cowboy which carried on the arm the gun, sits the caribou to pull Santa Claus and the exciting costume ball which the sled faction gave the gift and so on has formed the American city big parade performance side team, had the American character and style extremely; Indian square and swimming pool, drift river bank, beautiful Indian the character and style dance, the Hawaii aquatic dance and so on send out the indigenous culture the unique charm.

Mt. Putuoshan Scenic Spot

Mt. Putuoshan lies to the east of Zhoushan City. Zhoushan City is situated on Zhoushan Island that in turn gives its name to a group of some four hundred small islands off the east coast of China in Zhejiang Province. These islands are in fact the peaks of submerged mountains and so rise steeply from the sea. Mt. Putuoshan dominates the small rhomboidal land mass with its total area of about 12.5 square kilometres (4.8 square miles). The mountain is of one of four in the country that are held sacred by Buddhists and it was here that over the centuries a once large Buddhist community was to evolve.

The island's scenic beauty meant it was the perfect setting for temples and other religious buildings. In due course, it became known as the "Heaven of the Sea and Kingdom of the Buddhists". In its heyday, the island had eighty-two temples and nunneries together with some one hundred and twenty-eight shelters that between them housed 4,000 Buddhist monks and nuns. Even today visitors to the island will encounter monks in their traditional robes as they walk along the many paths that criss-cross the picturesque landscape.

The major sites to visit on the island are:

Puji Temple: This temple dates from the Song Dynasty (960-1279) and covers 11,000 square meters (2.7 acres).
Fayu Temple: Construction commenced during the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644) and the buildings hug the mountainside in the seclusion of lofty and ancient trees.

Huiji Temple: This is known also as the Buddhist Hilltop Temple (Fodingshan) on account of its elevated position.

The centre of the island is covered with rich green forests that form a tranquil setting appropriate to a place of quiet religious contemplation. It is here that magnificent and protected hornbeams grow as well as the famous one-thousand-year-old camphor tree, a particularly fine tree species with a circumference measuring 6 meters (20 feet).

The sandy shores of the island are also special features and particularly attractive to tourists are the bays known as "The Thousand-Step Sands" with its 1.5 kilometer (0.9 mile) beach and the smaller "Hundred-Step Sands". These fine beaches are very popular with bathers and also have entertainment facilities.It is small wonder that this island is famed for having such a delightful combination of mountain scenery and seascapes.

Tiantai Mountain Scenic Area

Tiantai Mountain is a famous national scenic area situated in Tiantai County, Taizhou City, in eastern Zhejiang Province. It is known for its beautiful scenery and for being the cradle of the Tiantai Sect of Chinese Buddhism including the Japanese and Korean Tiantai Buddhist Sects and also for being the home of the South Sect of Taoism.

Tiantai Mountain has other attractions including its historical sites and its tranquil flora comprised of evergreen plants, and a unique geography. Covering an area of 187 square kilometers (about 72 square miles), Tiantai Mountain Scenic Area is divided into 13 scenic areas including Guoqing Scenic Area, and Chicheng Scenic Area among others. Each area has its own unique attractions. Guoqing Temple, Shiliang Waterfall, Huading Peak are among the most beautiful natural sights

Guoqing Temple

At the foot of Tiantai Mountain, Guoqing Temple was built in 598 in the Sui Dynasty (581-618) according to the last wish of 'Wisdom', an eminent monk. It is said that he founded the Chinese Tiantai Sect of Buddhism. Later its doctrines were spread abroad, mainly to Korea and Japan. These external cultures significantly influenced the development of Korean and Japanese Buddhist Sects. Guoqing Temple has been restored many times in later dynasties. The most recent general renovation was during the Qing Dynasty (1644-1911). Guoqing Temple now is a grand and unique architectural complex consisting of more than 600 rooms and 14 halls. It is one of the best preserved large temples in China.

Shiliang Waterfall

The Shiliang Waterfall is a masterpiece of nature. A stone beam spans two steep cliffs, known as Shiliang, a so-called Stone Bridge, ranges from 19 centimeters (about 7 inches) wide at the narrowest and to about 48 centimeters (about 19 inches) at the widest point. The waterfall plummets 30 meters (about 98 feet) into a deep pool with a thundering roar. The sight is magnificent. Considerable composure and surefootedness are required to walk across the beam.

Huading Peak

In stark contrast to the Shiliang Waterfall, Huading Peak is the highest peak of Tiantai Mountain with the height of 1,138 meters (about 3,733 feet). Because it is always nestled in clouds, it is famous for the view its clouds gathering. The top is the best place to view sunrise. From the top looking down, Huading and surrounding peaks look like a lotus bud with Huading Peak at the center. Only more than 1,000 meters (3,280 feet) high, Tiantai Mountain basks in a comfortable climate among graceful surroundings that is a pleasant respite from city life.

Note: Tiantai Mountain is famous as a summer resort in Zhejiang Province. The best time to visit is from April to October, so one can enjoy the beautiful scenery of Tiantai Mountain, yet still avoid summer heat. Moreover, it is convenient since it is only two hours by bus from Hangzhou.

Xitang Ancient Town

Xitang Ancient Town，about one and half hours' drive from Shanghai, is a beautiful town that seems like a completely different world from the hustle and bustle of Shanghai. Cobbled streets, old buildings, bridges arching over canals, rowing boats lingering on the river, locals singing folk songs, this is Xitang, a charming, ancient water town. Mornings in Xitang bring fresh air and light fog; during the evening, the setting sun casts a rosy glow on the old tiled roofs. It truly is a world away.

Something that makes Xitang so special is the number of bridges. There are 104 in total, built in varying styles spanning the Ming and Qing Dynasties. Some looks like rainbows over the river and others like long flutes. Life for Xitang locals is calm and easy, full of comfort and peace, no difference from the lifestyle of their ancestors thousands of years ago. The elderly play with their grandchildren on the bridges and in the lanes, and women wash vegetables and clothes in the rivers running beside their houses. If you need a break from the stresses of Shanghai, there's really no better place to chill out and experience the quieter side of Chinese life.

Wuzhen Ancient Town

Wuzhen lies in Tongxiang City of Zhejiang Province. The town is divided into four zones by a cross-shaped river. In the meanwhile it is the only ancient water town adjacent to the Beijing-Hangzhou Grand Canal. It is renowned as the “the last resting-on-water town” in China. Due to its warm and humid climate, its abundant rainfalls and sunshine, products here are rich, making Wuzhen well-known as the” town of fish, rice and silk”.

Wuzhen enjoys a history of more than 1000 years, dating back from the Spring and Autumn Period (770-446BC). The ancient Grand Canal is the cradle of the splendid culture of Wuzhen. In the past over 1000 years, Wuzhen has never changed its name, address, water system or lifestyle.

The traditional buildings are still well preserved after crossing so many rough years. Within the town, with a dense network of rivers and wharves, people build their house along the rivers, and establish markets close to bridges. Stone railings and arch bridges, arched gates across the streets, imposing dwellings and spacious courtyards, river banks and verandas are all well preserved, presenting an original ecological scene of water town in Jiangnan (the South of Yangtze River).

Within the town, there are now more than 40 hectares of late 19th Century original buildings, and more than 100 ancient stone bridges of different shapes.In the town, watercourses and flagstone streets extend in all directions and intercross here and there. The native residents live peacefully in their old houses by water, like their ancestors do before long time ago.

Wuzhen is a living fossil of oriental civilization for its profound history and culture, graceful water town scenery, unique-flavored delicious food, various folk-customs and festivals. It’s a kind of beauty naturally endowed. While displaying the extraordinary charming of Chinese ancient culture and the soul of oriental life, Wuzhen has become a disseminator of traditional culture and an emissary of the communication between China and foreign countries.