Hangzhou, dubbed "Paradise on Earth," is a serene fusion of misty lakes, ancient temples, and poetic landscapes that have inspired artists for centuries. Nestled along China's eastern coast, it seamlessly blends natural beauty with cultural heritage, earning its reputation as China's "Romance of the Three Kingdoms" era capital.
Natural & Cultural Highlights: Stroll around UNESCO-listed West Lake, where causeways link pagodas, lotus gardens, and the iconic Leifeng Pagoda. Hike Flying Peak at Lingyin Temple, carved with 1,400-year-old Buddhist statues, or wander Xixi Wetland's waterways, a haven for egrets and traditional villages. Cruise the Grand Canal's Hangzhou section, a UNESCO site lined with Ming-era warehouses, and sip Dragon Well tea at its eponymous village, where imperial gardens meet terraced hillsides. Don't miss the Six Harmonies Pagoda's river views and the Song Dynasty Imperial Street's reenacted markets.
For more information about Hangzhou: Hangzhou Travel Guide
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