History
Hangzhou may be overshadowed by some of the better-known tourist
destinations which boast spectacular mountains, architectural
masterpieces, golden beaches or exotic ethnic cultures. However, the
city has an elegant air and a distinguished thousand-year history.
The city is a noted ancient capital of China and is famed for West
Lake and Grand Canal. 
Liangzhu Culture, which dates from about 4,700 years ago, was part
of the vital cultural life existing in the Tiahu Lake drainage area,
in the lower reaches of the Yangtze River. The archeological site
found here, named for its discovery in Liangzhu Town, is estimated
to be 5,000 years old. At that time both bronze and stone wares were
used, black pottery was manufactured and the tripod vessel was used
for cooking. Jade ritual articles, silk pieces and thread are also
typical excavation finds, indicating the area's prosperity in the
prehistoric age.
Advanced silk, printing, paper and porcelain production, together
with an elegant society and culture made it the most beautiful and
luxurious city in the world, as praised by Italian traveler Marco
Polo. Although no longer the center of a dynasty, Hangzhou remains a
shining pearl in the southeast.