Hangzhou, an ancient renowned city for its picturesque scenery, is situated in the northern part of Zhejiang province, along the northern bank of Qiantang River and at the southern terminus of the Grand Canal. Hangzhou also served as an imperial capital for 237 years—first as the capital of the State of Wuyue (907-978) during the Five Dynasties Period, and again as the capital of the Southern Song Dynasty (1127-1279) . After running through high| lofty mountain ridges of the western part of Zhejiang, the winding Qiantang River becomes wider with majestic scenery. Especially around the Moon Festival every year,one can enjoy the raging tidal bore, which is a most spectacular natural phenomenon. Lying in the west part of the city, the charming West Lake covers a total area of 5. 6 square kilometers. With glistening water and luxuriant trees and bamboo groves along its bank, the West Lake has attractive landscape all the year round. Song Dynasty poet Yang Wanli once wrote a poem: “After all, the scenery of the West Lake in June is different from other time; Lotus leaves are extremely green extending to the sky, lotus are especially red under the sun. ”

Hangzhou has many scenery spots and historical sites. It is so fascinating that one will enjoy oneself so much as to forget to go home.