Hangzhou

Hangzhou

Hangzhou is renowned for its historic relics and natural beauty and is ranked in the ten most scenic cities in China. Its location on the West Lake and backdrop of mountains certainly adds charm and it is a popular honeymoon destination for newlyweds. Although it has been through many recent urban developments it still retains its historical and cultural heritage.

One of the most prosperous cities in China, its port was the focus over the centuries of a vigorous local and international economy in longjing (green tea) and many other commodities directly linking traders as far north as Beijing to Hangzhou via the Grand Canal as far back as 609AD.

My reason for being in Hangzhou was observation of the total solar eclipse on the 22nd July 2009. Here's the report.

	The beautiful and famous Xi Hu (West Lake) with dragon boat and Pagoda in the distance.
	A courier fully loaded up!
	Lingyin Si Buddhist monastery.
	Lighting incense at the monastery.
	An interesting shady corner for quiet contemplation at the monastery.
	A colourful and imposing Buddha.
	Felai Feng. Numerous Buddhas can be seen hewn out of the rock face. A very popular tourist destination.
	Lihue (Six Harmonies) Pagoda built in 1165AD. An imposing structure sited on the top of a hill.
	A cityscape and busy intersection at night. Here's another night scene (West Lake at night).