In this post, we explore the historical background of Hangzhou—one of China’s seven great ancient capitals—and offer useful travel information. You’ll find an overview of its long history as well as practical tips for your visit.
Introduction & Features of Hangzhou (杭州)
Geographical Characteristics
Hangzhou (杭州), the capital of Zhejiang Province (浙江省), is located in the southern section of the Yangtze River Delta. It lies downstream along the Qiantang River (錢塘江), enjoying plentiful water resources that have long supported thriving waterway and maritime transport. Even today, Hangzhou remains a vital logistics and transportation hub in southeastern China.
West Lake (西湖), a symbol of Hangzhou, is framed by surrounding hills and the city skyline, creating a perfect scenic balance. Recognized as a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site, West Lake exemplifies the city’s natural beauty, praised for its “elegant waters” and rich cultural heritage.
Cultural Characteristics
With a history stretching back centuries, Hangzhou is home to abundant cultural treasures. There is an old saying in Chinese: “In heaven there is paradise; on earth, there are Suzhou and Hangzhou (上有天堂，下有蘇杭),” highlighting how this region has long been revered for its thriving arts, academia, commerce, and tea culture.
- Tea Culture
Centered on Longjing Tea (龍井茶), Hangzhou has been a core of Chinese tea traditions. - Southern Song Era
When Hangzhou was the capital under the Southern Song Dynasty (南宋), culture and the arts flourished. Writers and painters produced outstanding works. - Modern Culture
Tech giants like Alibaba and NetEase have headquarters here, shaping a vibrant new lifestyle that merges innovation and artistry.
History of Hangzhou (杭州)
From Ancient Times to the Spring and Autumn Period (~3rd Century BC)
The Hangzhou region was historically part of the Wu-Yue (吳越) territories. Thanks to the fertile plains in northern Zhejiang and abundant waterways, agriculture and fisheries thrived early on, and water-based trade routes emerged. During the Spring and Autumn and Warring States periods (8th–3rd century BC), Hangzhou became closely connected with both Wu (吳) and Yue (越), laying the foundations of its cultural heritage.
Qin (秦) & Han (漢) to Wei (魏) & Jin (晉) (3rd Century BC – 5th Century AD)
- Qin & Han
During the Han, the area belonged to Wu Commandery (吳郡). Though it was considered somewhat peripheral under the centralized rule, its fertile lands supported small villages that eventually grew into commercial bases. - Wei–Jin & Northern–Southern Dynasties
As China underwent repeated divisions and reunifications, Hangzhou served as a conduit for cultural and population exchange between the Central Plains (中原) and southern dynasties.
Sui (隋), Tang (唐), Song (宋), and Yuan (元) (6th–14th Century)
- Sui Dynasty
Completion of the Grand Canal (大運河) linked northern Beijing (then known as Yanjing) with Hangzhou in the south. This new waterway fueled explosive growth in trade and cemented Hangzhou’s status as a central hub for north-south commerce. - Tang Dynasty
During the Tang era, Hangzhou was recognized as a prosperous region, exporting local specialties such as tea and silk throughout China. - Southern Song (南宋)
Hangzhou enjoyed its peak of prosperity as the capital. After the Northern Song (北宋) fell to the Jin (金), the royal court moved south and established Hangzhou (then called Lin’an, 臨安) as the capital (1127–1279). Its population soared past one million, making it a global metropolis. Innovations in printing, ceramics, tea culture, and other fields reached their apex. Since then, Hangzhou has been firmly recognized as an “ancient capital.” - Yuan (Mongol Empire)
Though Hangzhou lost its capital status after the Southern Song fell to the Mongols, trade and commerce continued.
Ming (明) & Qing (淸) Dynasties (14th–Early 20th Century)
- Ming Dynasty
Though the capital shifted to Beijing, Hangzhou remained a major commercial city on China’s southeastern coast. The Maritime Silk Road and the Grand Canal supported robust trade, fostering ongoing economic and cultural development. - Qing Dynasty
Throughout Zhejiang Province, bustling maritime trade and exports like tea, silk, and ceramics generated wealth, with Hangzhou playing a central role in these exchanges.
Modern Era (20th Century–Present)
- Republic of China (1912–1949)
Alongside the growth of nearby cities such as Shanghai (上海) and Ningbo (寧波), Hangzhou modernized its industries and transportation networks. - People’s Republic of China (1949–Today)
Following economic reforms, the eastern coastal regions experienced rapid development, and Hangzhou gained global recognition in high tech and e-commerce. Notably, Alibaba (阿里巴巴) and NetEase (網易) are headquartered here, positioning Hangzhou as a core city of the “digital silk road.”
Hangzhou (杭州) Travel Guide
Must-See Attractions
West Lake (西湖)
The best-known landmark of Hangzhou is West Lake, which became a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site in 2011. Famed for its perfect harmony between classical Chinese garden aesthetics and natural scenery, West Lake has long inspired poets who likened it to a realm of immortals. Its enduring beauty continues to captivate visitors even today.
Highlights
- Broken Bridge (斷橋)
Featured in the legend “The Legend of the White Snake” (白蛇傳). In winter, the snow-covered scene known as “Broken Bridge in the Remnant Snow (斷橋殘雪)” is breathtaking. - Leifeng Pagoda (雷峰塔)
Towering along the lake’s southern shore, it has been rebuilt in modern times with an internal elevator, offering panoramic views. - Three Pools Mirroring the Moon (三潭印月)
Three small stone pagodas in the lake’s center create a magical reflection under the moonlight, considered one of Hangzhou’s Ten Scenes.
Tips
- Renting an electric vehicle or bicycle for a loop around the lake is a great way to explore. You can also take a boat to visit the central island.
- Check for evening performances such as the musical fountain show or “West Lake Night Songs (西湖夜歌)” along the lakeshore.
Qinghefang (清河坊) & Hefang Street (河坊街)
South of West Lake lies the Qinghefang Historical and Cultural District, preserving old-style architecture and narrow alleys. This area offers a quintessential tourist experience with street food, souvenir shops, and quaint lanes that reflect ancient Hangzhou’s commercial heritage.
Zhejiang University & Modern Hangzhou
Hangzhou is also home to Zhejiang University (浙江大學), one of China’s top institutions. The campus surroundings are filled with trendy cafés, restaurants, and bookstores popular among young people—perfect for experiencing the city’s modern energy.
Meanwhile, in Binjiang District (濱江區), where Alibaba’s headquarters are located, and Yuhang District (余杭區), home to the Future Science and Technology City (未來科技城), you can see the high-tech and forward-looking side of Hangzhou.
BEST Hangzhou Travel Highlights
Culture & Cuisine
Zhejiang Province is famous for its “Zhe” (浙) cuisine—light, fresh flavors that bring out the natural taste of ingredients, often featuring local seafood and vegetables.
Dongpo Pork (東坡肉)
Named after the poet Su Dongpo (蘇東坡), this braised pork dish balances fatty and lean cuts in a sweet and savory marinade. Its melt-in-your-mouth tenderness and fragrant aroma make it an irresistible classic, perfect as a side with rice or a light snack with drinks.
West Lake Vinegar Fish (西湖醋魚)
Fresh fish from West Lake is cooked in a sweet-and-sour sauce of vinegar, sugar, and soy. Often prepared with carp (鯉魚), the tender flesh falls apart in your mouth, and the vinegar cuts any greasiness for a clean finish. It’s one of Hangzhou’s signature dishes.
Longjing Tea (龍井茶)
No tea lover can miss Longjing (Dragon Well) Tea, grown near Longjing Village (龍井村) outside Hangzhou. Its delicate fragrance and gentle sweetness are legendary. Visiting in spring for the freshest harvest is ideal—consider buying premium tea leaves or joining a tea field tour for a memorable cultural experience.
Travel Planning
Transportation
- Air: Hangzhou Xiaoshan International Airport (蕭山國際機場) connects to major domestic and international cities. You can reach downtown in under an hour by airport bus, taxi, or metro.
- Rail/High-Speed Train: Shanghai (上海) and Suzhou (蘇州) are only 1–2 hours away by high-speed rail, making it easy to include Hangzhou in an itinerary around East China.
- Getting Around: Metro lines, city buses, and bike-sharing (Mobike, HelloBike, etc.) are efficient. QR code payments dominate; short-term travelers may find Alipay or WeChat Pay useful.
Travel Tips
- Best Seasons:
- Spring (Mar–May): Sunny and mild.
- Fall (Sep–Nov): Comfortable weather.
- Summer: Hot and humid—bring light clothing, an umbrella, and maybe a portable fan.
- Winter: Quieter with fewer crowds, ideal if you prefer a laid-back pace.
- Recommended Itinerary
- Day 1: Arrive in Hangzhou → Tour West Lake (Broken Bridge, Three Pools Mirroring the Moon) → Evening at Hefang Street Night Market
- Day 2: Morning at Leifeng Pagoda → Shopping and food in Qinghefang → Afternoon visit to Zhejiang University area & cafés
- Day 3: Longjing Tea Village excursion → Sample local dishes like Dongpo Pork & West Lake Vinegar Fish → Depart from airport or train station
Accommodation
- By West Lake: Luxury hotels and boutique inns with lakeside views (can be pricey in peak season).
- Downtown (Wulin Square, Hubin area): Convenient for shopping, dining, and entertainment.
- Binjiang, Yuhang Districts: Near Alibaba, NetEase, and other tech hubs, offering newer buildings and moderately priced business hotels.
Conclusion
As one of China’s seven great ancient capitals, Hangzhou thrived for 150 years as the Southern Song capital, making it rich in heritage. Today, it’s a world-renowned IT innovation hub with the serene beauty of West Lake at its heart, offering tranquil scenery and a deep-rooted tea culture.
Take a moment to sit by the gentle ripples of West Lake with a cup of Longjing Tea. Venture into the old Qinghefang streets to sense the legacy of merchants and scholars, then step back into the modern cityscape shaped by Alibaba and other tech giants. Rarely do past and present blend so seamlessly.
Hangzhou is sure to leave you with unforgettable memories, bridging centuries in a single trip and offering a unique perspective on China’s evolution. Come experience this remarkable city for yourself, and discover the beauty and modern energy that define Hangzhou today.