Joanna James
While there's a lot to see and do in China's financial capital Shanghai, there are some things that Hangzhou, one of China's older capital cities does better.
Developed as a solution to fix the traffic congestion, Bike sharing was introduced to China in 2008 by Hangzhou. Since then it has grown to become one of the best public bike systems in the world. Hangzhou has more than 84,000 bikes that are distributed among 33 service points. You can drop off your bike at any of these service stations once you're done.
One of China's finest and costly types of tea, Longjing tea is grown in Hangzhou. Tea lovers from all over China flock to Hangzhou in Spring to taste the first batch of the Longjing harvest for the year. The tea leaves are quite frail and must be prepared using water that is boiled to approximately 90 Celsius.
While most food from the northern region of China contains lots of spices and sauces, the food in Hangzhou has a subtle taste and are prepared using fresh ingredients. The signature dish of Hangzhou is the Longjing shrimps; a dish made using shrimp that was caught from rivers nearby and Longjing tea.
Spanning an area of over 48 square kilometres, Hangzhou's West Lake is a scenic location that has inspired many poets, artist and philosophers over the years. West Lake is filled with Pagodas, mountains, temples, gardens and pavilions. A hike to the top of the mountain to catch the sunrise is one of the best ways to soak in the beauty of the area.
Alibaba, one of the world's fastest growing online brands was founded by Jack Ma; a resident of Hangzhou. The birth of the Alibaba group helped revolutionize Hangzhou into a metropolitan city as until that point it was only known for its cultural and natural beauty. Alibaba's mobile wallet application Alipay has changed the way that Chinese people live as they can easily survive without the need of a physical wallet.
Hangzhou is a UNESCO recognized World Heritage site for its long and rich history of producing silk. Silk from this district is in high demand locally and Internationally. Made using groundbreaking dyeing techniques, scarves are one of the most popular gift items purchased by tourists visiting Hangzhou.
If you want to take a break from the concrete jungles of Shanghai and immerse yourself in nature then Hangzhou is the place to go. Hangzhou apartments, hotels and resorts such as Ascott Raffles City Hangzhou are designed to seamlessly blend in the with the surrounding environment and help you take a break from the busy city life.
Popular amongst local devotees, Hangzhou is one of the most important cities for followers of Chan Buddhism. While there are many places to visit in Hangzhou for people seeking Zen, a not to miss place to visit would be Lingyin- One of China's oldest monasteries.
Located near West Lake and created in 1928, the China Art Academy is one of China's top art institutions that was started by some of China's most renown Educators and artists. The graduates of this fine establishment have made a significant contribution to Hangzhou's creative industry.
Hangzhou is home to one of the most prestigious manufacturers of hand fans in China – Wang Xing Ji. Founded in 1875, Wang Xing Ji attracts both local and foreign buyers with its stunning designs.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
