Zhejiang

The province of Zhejiang showcases the region's agricultural prowess and dedication to nature, even as it is one of the most populous urban regions of China. The capital city of Hangzhou is famous for West Lake, a huge green park embodying this devotion and relationship with natural beauty. A center of culture and trade, Zhejiang is also one of China's wealthiest provinces. Hangzhou served as one of the eight ancient capital cities of the country, after the Song Dynasty rulers fled Jurchen invaders. Throughout history, the city also benefited from its position as the last stop on the Grand Canal, the conduit for supplying grains and goods to the imperial north.

Shaoxing showcases another aspect of Zhejiang life. The small-town flavor of this city on canals remains, despite a growing population and overall economic boom in the province. Several high-profile figures helped put Shaoxing on the map, including former Premier Zhou Enlai, and novelist Lu Xun.

In addition to its cities, Zhejiang's farms are also among the most prosperous, and rural incomes are some three to four times higher than in many other areas of the country. Geographically, the river-basin plains in the north near Shanghai give way to mountains in the south of the province. Besides grain, the province also is recognized in China for its tea, crafts, silk production, and long tradition of sculpture and carving.