Construction of the Grand Canal in the late 6th century brought trade and prosperity to Hangzhou. Later Hangzhou was capital of the Southern Song dynasty between 1127-1279 and it became famous for the beauty of its lake and its scenery. It is claimed that Marco Polo described Hangzhou as one of the most beautiful places on earth.

While modern Hangzhou is developing rapidly to the northeast of the city, the West Lake is still a peaceful tranquil area. Graceful willows line the shore and cyclists cross the lake on the causeways as they have for centuries. West Lake is said to be at its most beautiful in the early morning when the dawn light and mists enhance the classic "willow pattern" scenes and tai chi enthusiasts serenely perform their exercises.

Hangzhou is also famous for producing high quality silk and the city is home to the China Silk Museum which traces the fabric’s 5,000 year history. The tea grown in the Longjing plantations to the west of the lake is among the finest in China. A visit to the plantations and the China Tea Museum is an education in the traditions and history of this ancient drink.