Hangzhou: China's autumn city
Without a doubt, Hangzhou has been an earthly heaven to Chinese and it is where many from home and abroad are flocking to spend the autumn holiday, either to catch the chance to enjoy the magnificent tides on the Qiantang River, or to take a city tour along the shining pearl of the West Lake.
Legend has it that the lake was once an auspicious pearl formed into its sparkling shape by the Jade Dragon and the Golden Phoenix. But it was later stolen by the Mother Queen of the West. When the Jade Dragon and Golden Phoenix fought with the Mother Queen, the pearl accidentally fell on earth and became a dazzling lake.
In ancient times the West Lake was a lagoon, a 'necklace' derived from the nearby sea. Later, the Qiantang River was silted up and so was the mouth of the lagoon, which appeared and disappeared with the flow and ebb of the sea. It was not until the Sui Dynasty about 1,500 years ago that the lake took shape.
Depending on the location, the season and even the time of the day, the West Lake puts on different charms. And if one is lucky enough, one can enjoy the ten most well known sceneries of the lake, which have been famous since ancient times. They include Spring Dawn at Su Causeway, Breeze at Crooked Courtyard, Autumn Moon on Calm Lake, and Melting Snow on the Broken Bridge.
Like pubs and cafes in Western cities, tea houses are scattered in Hangzhou, and are mirrors reflecting the local culture. Qu-Yuan-Feng-He is a well-known scenic spot at the West Lake zone, and the tea-house there is built in the shape of a boat. The style of the building and its location give visitors the sense that they are floating on water.
The experience of sipping your tea at Yan-Xian Cave is equally wonderful. Here, up in the green hills of Longjing Village, you can sit amid the birds' songs and chattering brooks. Rainy days have a special charm, when the rhythm of the falling rain accompanies Nature's melody and adds to the sense of relaxation.
In most tea houses, people can bring their own tea and cup for a charge of just 15 yuan a month. In addition, tea is definitely a good gift to bring home.
So, enjoy your trip and have a great Mid-Autumn Day!
