Hangzhou - China's tourist destination of choice

Hangzhou is a sub-provincial city with a population of 8.7 million people as in 2010. It is one of the most prosperous cities in China in the last 1000 years mainly because of the natural scenic beauty it has to boast.

Hangzhou is the capital of Zhejiang province and its financial and political center. The city is famed for its cultural heritage and natural beauty and has become one of China's most important tourist destinations. The city lies upon the Qiantang River in the Yangtze Delta of southeast China, only 180 kilometers from Shanghai. Hangzhou's famous West Lake, a UNESCO world heritage site is considered one of the most beautiful sights in whole of China.

Hangzhou also has many places of interest including museums, temples and scenic areas. With its temperate climate, relaxing atmosphere and close proximity to Shanghai, Hangzhou is a popular choice for foreigners wishing to study in China and to learn Chinese, but who want to avoid the urban crush of its larger neighbor.