The 2024 Hangzhou Marathon kicked off at the Huanglong Sports Center at 7 am on Nov 3, lighting up social media.

This year's race, featuring a full marathon, half marathon, and 3.5-kilometer fun run, drew approximately 36,000 participants from across China. Runners passed Hangzhou's most iconic sites, including West Lake and the Qiantang River, capturing the city's stunning blend of history and modernity.

In a thrilling finish, Kenyan athlete Moses Kibet set a new Hangzhou Marathon record, crossing the line in 2:07:47. The top three finishers in the men's marathon all surpassed the previous records, with the top female athletes also achieving record-breaking times. In the half marathon, Tsinghua University student Chen Zhongping defended his title with a time of 1:06:23, shaving nearly a minute off his performance last year.

The marathon introduced four-legged robotic pace runners for the first time, adding a unique touch to the event. Larger robots acted as sweepers for the half marathon, while smaller models accompanied fun run participants, providing cheerful interactions and support along the way.

The race concluded at the Hangzhou Olympic Center Stadium, marking a memorable day of personal triumphs and new records in Hangzhou's premier marathon event.

On November 3, an experience group of some provincial & municipal officials and 15 citizen representatives walked into Qianjiang New City (Phase II) to feel the internationalized future city model.

The representatives explored the newly-opened West Bank Park, visited the Insect Art Exhibition at the new waterside landmark, and entered the engineering headquarters to know about the latest regional planning. They deeply felt the transformation of Hangzhou from the West Lake Era to Qiantang River Era.

Qianjiang New City (Phase II) aims to become a world-class waterside city center, accelerating the integration of headquarters clustering and ecological and humanistic elements with the vision of "future headquarters bay and new waterside bank".

2024 Hangzhou Marathon kicked off at Huanglong Sports Center on November 3, attracting about 36,000 participants.

This year's event continues to use last year's route. The ending point of the full marathon is set up at Hangzhou Olympic Sports Center Stadium. Some players noted, "This reignites the sports enthusiasm of Hangzhou Asian Games, and the experience of running into the Asian Games venues fulfills the sports dream."

Interestingly, the event introduced robot pacers for the first time. The large one provides the time limit reference for half marathon players, and the small one accompanies the players for fun run. At the ending point, the humanoid robots greet the runners who have completed the event, providing them with emotional value.

Recently, at Xixi National Wetland Park, reed flowers covering an area of about 100 mu have entered the best viewing period. Tourists can take boats to go deep into reeds and enjoy poetic beauty.

Moreover, the fairy-tale theme park activity, as well as the fair featured by wetland farming, is launched simultaneously, to enrich the experience of tourists.

Mr. Rocky Fruitwood Grilled Steak Canton Fair Special

Mr. Rocky Fruitwood Grilled Steak has been awarded the 'Asian Landmark Cuisine' title, making the must-eat list for three consecutive years from 2022 to 2024. With 16 years of craftsmanship, Mr. Rocky brings you authentic Texas-style steak, grilled to perfection in traditional wood-fired ovens and made with top-quality imported beef. Every night, an international band ignites the atmosphere with wild Western vibes, from cowboy hats and leather boots to the clash of whiskey and music. During the Canton Fair, performances will extend by an extra hour. Feel the raw freedom of the Western cowboy world, where great food, drinks, and entertainment come together for an unforgettable night.

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Toshiki Soejima at MAO Livehouse

Known for his 2021 EP Life, Toshiki Soejima, Japan’s most innovative Neo-Soul Guitarist, is coming to China to bring his new album True to fans in Shanghai, Hangzhou and Guangzhou.

Toshiki showcases his musical identity through evocative songwriting and the distinct timbre of his guitar, focusing on instrumental sounds.

Well-known for his evocative live performances, which are full of emotional depth and philosophy, Toshiki perfectly blends the musical elements of blues, jazz and neo-soul, presenting the ultimate expression of emotion and melody to his audiences.

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November 15, from 7.30pm

MAOLivehouse Yong Qing Fang, 3/F, No.265 Enning Lu, Liwan 荔湾区恩宁路265号3层

Piano Virtuoso Maksim's 'Segmenti' Concert

Audiences in Guangzhou will have a chance to experience on-site the charm of Piano Virtuoso Maksim Mrvica's crossover music on November 17. Born in Šibenik, Croatia, Maksim is one of the best-selling crossover pianists in the world. His works, characterized by fusing contemporary music elements such as rock, pop, and electro into classical pieces, have injected new vitality into classical genre and are well received by listeners worldwide. The 'Segmenti' concert program will feature some of Maksim's most popular hits.

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November 17, from 7.30pm

Hall 1, Guangzhou Gymnasium, No.783 Baiyun Da Dao Nan, Jingtai Jiedao, Baiyun 白云区景泰街道白云大道南783号广州体育馆

Rebecca Das Musical Staged Concert

Two of the most successful authors of musicals in the German-speaking world Michael Kunze & Sylvester Levay have created another magnificent masterpiece. The spectacular production REBECCA, based on the world-famous novel by Daphne du Maurier, tells a romantic love story at Manderley Castle gradually develops into a gripping thriller with lots of intrigue and dark surprises.

The world-famous material, which was already nominated for 11 Oscars in Alfred Hitchcock's cinema version and only recently celebrated success in the Netflix remake, also guarantees a wonderful evening full of romance, dark secrets and eerie suspense in the legendary musical staged concert.

This production is a brand new semi-staged version concert, featuring over 20 talented actors and actresses accompanied by an orchestra and original costumes. This is also the debut of a full-length REBECCA in mainland China.

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Price: from RMB280

November 28 - 29, 7.30pm

November 30 - December 1, 2.30pm & 7.30pm

*Performed in German with Chinese subtitle

Guangzhou Opera House, No.1 Zhujiang Xi Lu, Zhujiang New Town, Tianhe 天河区珠江新城珠江西路1号广州大剧院

2025 Guangzhou Family New Year's Concert

Discover the enchanting '2025 Guangzhou Family New Year's Concert!' Join us for an unforgettable musical journey that brings families together in the festive spirit. Experience the magic of live music with your loved ones, creating cherished memories this New Year's. Don't miss out on this spectacular event! Book your tickets now for a night filled with joy and harmony.

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Price: Early Bird, from RMB108; Standard, from RMB180

December 29, from 10.30am

Guangdong Art Theatre, No.1229 Guangzhou Da Dao Zhong, Tianhe 天河区广州大道中1229号

iBorn Healthcare: Elevate Beauty & Well-Being

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2024 FAI World Drone Racing Championship is held at Shangcheng District Stadium of Hangzhou on November 1-3, attracting 111 players from 32 countries and regions.

Hangzhou's thriving digital and intelligent industries, coupled with technological innovation, facilitated the hosting of this event. Chen Weiqiang, deputy mayor of Hangzhou, noted that the championship would boost Hangzhou's low-altitude economy.

At present, Hangzhou Federation of Trade Unions has rolled out six policies to advance the childcare services of employing units, such as deepening the construction of childcare service facilities, encouraging diversified childcare models, providing affordable childcare services, giving medical & educational guidance, cultivating professional talents, and strengthening support.

A subsidy of RMB 75,000 will be granted to each union that establishes new childcare services.

Between 2023 and 2024, the childcare institutions of four employing units in Hangzhou were included in the list of the national love childcare units. Hangzhou’s committed to improving its reputation of a child-friendly city in the future.

As the first archaeological museum in Zhejiang, Hangzhou Linping Yujiashan Archaeological Museum is expected to open in April next year.

Currently,, the construction work of the museum project has been completed by 90 percent, and is expected to be fully finished by the end of December.

The museum is located on the southwest side of the Archaeological Site Park, spanning more than 120,000 square meters, with about 8,000 unearthed cultural relics including stoneware, jadeware and pottery. The paddy field landscape outside the museum reflects the rice cultivation tradition of Liangzhu Culture.

Hangzhou's night markets are becoming increasingly popular among young people. If you're a night owl, check out these spots for a unique experience.

Wulin Night Market

As an internet-famous destination, the market gathers exquisite, fashionable handmade crafts and products representing intangible cultural heritage. It also offers delicious food from around the world, attracting numerous live-streamers.

Opening hours: 17:00-23:00 Monday to Friday

14:00-23:00 Saturday to Sunday

Location: 40 Longyou Road, Gongshu District

Sunset Night Market

The market features a variety of cleverly designed ornaments, nostalgic vintage goods, trendy delicacies, and more. Each stall showcases the owner’s unique personality.

Opening hours: 18:00-21:30

Location: Dongchao Art Park, Xiaoshan District

Shuxin Night Market

Currently, it has 60 stalls selling food and snacks from around the world. A central stage hosts lively performances each week, helping visitors unwind after a long day.

Opening hours: 17:00-2:00

Location: 120 meters south of the intersection of Shuxin Road and Longtan Road, Yuhang District

Midnight Square

This popular photo spot is also a great place for networking, accompanied by nice music, snacks, and street artists. During holidays, a series of engaging activities await for an immersive experience.

Opening hours: Night Market:

19:00-2:00 (The square is open 24/7)

Location: 200 meters northeast of the intersection of Shanyin Road and Zongqi Road, Xiaoshan District

Theatre

Dance Drama: A Dream of Red Mansions

It’s a Chinese aesthetic dance drama based on A Dream of Red Mansions by Cao Xueqin, one of the Four Great Classical Novels of China. The story centers on the tragic love and marriages of Jia Baoyu, Lin Daiyu, and Xue Baochai, alongside the rise and fall of the four major families—Jia, Shi, Xue, and Wang.

Time: 3:00 PM, Nov 24

Venue: Hongxing Theater

Tickets: 90/180/280/380 yuan

Competition

AFC Champions League Two

The AFC Champions League is the second-tier club competition of the Asian Football Confederation. Four clubs from Singapore, Indonesia, Thailand, and China will participate in Group F, competing from rounds 4 to 6.

Time: Nov 7, Nov 28, Dec 5

Venue: Huanglong Sports Center Stadium

Tickets: 80/120/180/220/480 yuan

Concert

Alan Walker's Walker World

The EDM master is back in Hangzhou, bringing an upgraded stage lineup and audiovisual experience. Expect more spectacular stage design, stunning visual effects, powerful technical support, and surprising guest performers.

Time: 7:30 PM, Nov 30

Venue: Hangzhou Olympic Sports Centre Gymnasium

Tickets: 480/680/880/1080/1380 yuan

Carnival

Hangzhou Paradise Halloween Carnival

Hangzhou Paradise is launching a Halloween Carnival, featuring NPC characters offering various interactive experiences. Embark on a thrilling adventure with roller coasters, spinning death hammers, and more exciting attractions. DJs dressed as ghosts and monsters will lead a music storm, delivering performances of electronic music, rock, and street dance.

Time: Oct 31 - Nov 3 (Halloween Carnival Limited Theme)

Venue: #2555, Fengqing Avenue, Xiaoshan District

Tickets: 79.9/99.9 yuan

Exhibition

"Wonderful Insect Life" insect art exhibition

Experience a magical encounter between nature and art. The event includes a pre-hall and four exhibition areas where you can photograph giant butterfly art installations, play interactive games like “Insect Flip Fun”, and immerse yourself in insect sounds, exploring sensory mysteries. Admire insect-inspired art and get up close with live insects.

Time: Oct 18 - Nov 30, Tuesday to Sunday, 10:30 AM - 8:00 PM (Closed on Mondays)

Location: Building No. 1 of Yudao, Phase II, Qianjiang New CBD (near Yudao Subway Station Exit C)

Hangzhounese believe crabs are in season in late October, when the autumn winds begin to blow.

The history of eating crabs in Hangzhou dates back over 5,000 years to the Neolithic Age, with archaeologists uncovering large numbers of crab shells at the Ruins of Liangzhu City. When the Southern Song Dynasty (1127–1279) moved its capital to Hangzhou, food culture from northern China flowed into the southeast, diversifying crab-eating customs.

Crab-stuffed orange is a Hangzhou specialty that has been passed down since the Southern Song Dynasty. When an orange is stuffed with crab meat and steamed, the orange’s fragrance merges with the freshness of the crab for a unique taste experience.

Pickled crab is another seasonal favorite in Hangzhou. Crabs are immersed in Baijiu with various condiments added. After two to three days, the creamy crab roe is ready to enjoy.

Steamed crab is a classic Hangzhou dish, with steaming preserving the original flavor in the simplest way. For those uncertain about de-shelling crabs, rice or noodles served with golden crab roe are ideal alternatives, delivering a rich, satisfying flavor over fluffy rice or steaming noodles.

The pleasure of eating crabs lies not only in the taste but also in its role as a reason for reunions. Invite a few friends over to enjoy crabs. There’s nothing better than a day with good friends, good food, and fine autumn weather. Additionally, in Chinese, the word for “crab” (蟹, xiè) sounds like the word for “gratefulness” (谢, xiè), conveying a cultural link between food, family care, and friendship.

Behind the many ways to enjoy crabs lie rich food traditions and cultural significance. May you enjoy crabs -- nature’s autumn gift -- as well.

I've been in Shaoxing for nearly two years, and since there aren't many foreigners here, I started hosting board game nights in Hangzhou to find new friends and bring people together. We've played popular games like Citadels, Deception: Murder in Hong Kong, The Resistance: Avalon, and Secret Hitler. I have more than 30 games at home, and every weekend, I load a huge backpack with them and ride my e-bike from Shaoxing to Hangzhou for 1.5 hours to set up a game night. Organizing these nights has been a way to connect, especially since moving from work to online English teaching gives me more time. Sometimes we even get 20 people! I bring all sorts of games, so no one has to wait around -- they just jump in and start playing.--Roman Gladkih（Belarus）

The air turns crisp, leaves change color and fall, and autumn settles over West Lake and the surrounding areas of Hangzhou. This is my favorite time of year, marked by preparations for my favorite holiday: Halloween.

Growing up in the US, I enjoyed carving pumpkins, dressing up, visiting haunted houses, going on hay rides, and trick-or-treating. Now that I have children of my own, I want them to experience the same Halloween magic. However, it can be challenging to capture the true essence of Halloween in China. Here are a few ways I make the most of it.

Halloween wouldn’t be complete without a Jack-o’-Lantern (南瓜灯), so that’s the first activity I did with my daughters. My eldest, Meiana, and I visited our local market to find the biggest pumpkin they had. Although it was small and green, it was perfect for the job. I carved a scary face while Meiana cleaned out the guts and seeds (and ate a few). We lit a candle inside, and the kids loved seeing it glow.

Costumes are also essential for the celebration. Meiana, who is three, chose to be a witch, inspired by the ones in Disney’s Hocus Pocus (a Halloween classic). Her baby sister, Xinghe, who is just starting to walk, will go as a little black bat. The girls will wear their costumes on Halloween night when we visit our neighbors to trick-or-treat.

Food is another fun way to celebrate. I recently made “earthworm” ice cream for the family. It’s simply ice cream topped with crushed chocolate cookies (like Oreos) to resemble dirt, with gummy worms for a spooky touch. Meiana enjoyed the snack greatly.

Will Hangzhou have any family-friendly Halloween activities? If not, I’ll make sure to create holiday fun for my kids -- and you can too!

As the sun peeks over Hangzhou's skyline, casting a golden glow on tranquil West Lake, a new day unfolds at Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital affiliated with Zhejiang University School of Medicine (SRRSH). Dr. Mudita Malhotra from the US, equipped with her stethoscope and a warm smile, prepares to care for her patients with professional dedication.

Dr. Malhotra grew up in a family of doctors in India, where her grandfather, father, and mother were all practicing physicians. In her hometown, she saw firsthand how they used their knowledge to bring health and happiness to the community. This strong influence inspired her journey into medicine. After completing her foundational medical education in India, she pursued postgraduate studies in the United States, moving there in 1994. Her medical journey has been one of knowledge across borders. "I just wanted to help everyone -- children, adults, elderly people -- no matter their concerns," she recalls with determination.

She has practiced general medicine for over 20 years, holding positions at prestigious institutions such as Henry Ford Health System, George Washington University Medical Faculty Associates, and Johns Hopkins Medicine. Now she takes on a new role as a full-time Attending Physician in the General Practice Department at Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital.

What brought Dr. Malhotra to Hangzhou was her husband's work assignment and the hospital's international reputation. "SRRSH is internationally recognized as a high-quality health center," she explains proudly. "Its international collaborations, like with Mayo Clinic, were very important to me." With a dedicated international health center and bilingual staff, SRRSH provides her the ideal platform to care for foreign families, a role she embraces wholeheartedly.

In her consulting room, Dr. Malhotra is fully absorbed in her work. As she listens intently to a patient's symptoms, she asks questions gently, and her patient feels truly heard. "Dr. Malhotra's medical skills are exceptional, but more importantly, she is warm and trustworthy," says a Chinese patient who found significant improvement in his health under her care.

"You may wonder about the language barrier," Dr. Malhotra says, "The fact that the physician can comfort a patient does not have any language. As you know a warm smile and patience are universal." She adds, "I also have my general practice resident to help with translations, and occasionally, I use phone translation apps."

Dr. Malhotra extends her care beyond hospital walls, offering advice to international patients who may feel overwhelmed in a foreign healthcare system. "Know the setup, ensure your insurance covers the hospital, prepare for language barriers, and bring your medical history. Last but not least, most public hospitals in China have high patient volumes, so it's advised to make an appointment."

She also shares practical advice on common health issues faced by foreigners. "For those with chronic respiratory conditions like asthma or allergies, it's important to monitor air quality, especially in winter, and to wear masks or limit outdoor activities when pollution levels are high." Regarding mental health challenges that may arise from living in a new country, she suggests: "Building a social support network by joining communities or making local friends can alleviate stress, anxiety, and loneliness. Regular exercise, meditation, yoga, and good sleep are also beneficial for managing stress.”

In her free time, Dr. Malhotra is an enthusiastic explorer of Chinese culture. She and her husband have traveled to Chinese cities, visiting places like the Summer Palace, experiencing the Mid-Autumn Festival, and trying mooncakes. "I'm also a big tea drinker, and China's tea culture is impressive." Her love for tea has led her to visit Longjing tea plantations and the China National Tea Museum. "China's tea culture has been an eye-opener for me," she says, "black tea and oolong are my favorites."

As Dr. Malhotra continues her work at SRRSH, her journey is not just about healing but also about building cultural bridges through each smile, diagnosis, and warm interaction. Through her work, she leaves a lasting impact, proving that a doctor's heart knows no boundaries.

Hangzhou Metro is set to roll out approximately 130 driverless trains over the next five years, ushering in a new era of autonomous metro travel in the city. This ambitious move aligns with the recently unveiled Hangzhou Metro Green Urban Rail Development Action Plan and Hangzhou Metro Smart Urban Rail Development Plan by Hangzhou Metro Group.

The plans underscore several innovative strategies for the city's future transit system. Within the next five years, Hangzhou Metro will integrate photovoltaic power with the regional grid at metro depots and adopt energy-saving technologies in areas such as train traction, braking, and substation systems.

Additionally, 80 stations under Phase IV of the metro project will be upgraded to "smart stations", and around 130 reliable driverless trains will be deployed on new lines. Hangzhou is committed to establishing an advanced urban rail system that is efficient, convenient, safe, green, and economically viable, in line with China’s smart city goals.

In the coming years, Hangzhou Metro's new routes will begin operations with fully automated trains requiring no driver intervention under normal conditions. These trains feature automated wake-up and sleep modes, fault diagnostics, automated station entry or exit, and door control. Operators will focus on emergen

Feel helpless with a leg fracture but no elevator in your building? Stairclimbers are here to meet your pressing needs.

These gadgets are not only useful for elderly care but also can assist people with mobility difficulties in going upstairs and downstairs. An operator and a safety officer are needed when a stairclimber is in use. The operator uses the machine to transport the passenger up and down the stairs, while the safety officer provides support in front of the passenger. It takes about 90 seconds to go up or down one flight of stairs with the help of the stairclimber. The facility can also adapt to fit narrow stairways in many older residential communities in Hangzhou, with safety ensured by two auxiliary wheels.

Hangzhou has launched a pilot service of stairclimbers for more than a year, with service costs varying between districts, roughly about 80-150 yuan.

Hangzhou's new "Little Bear Park", located at the intersection of Binsheng Road and Tonghe Road, is capturing the hearts of visitors.

Hidden within the park is a unique "zoo" featuring adorable animals like deer, bears, and rabbits--all cleverly crafted from plants as three-dimensional floral sculptures. Alongside these plant-made creatures, the park boasts two large musical note installations crafted from seasonal flowers, creating a perfect backdrop for photos.

This park is just one part of Hangzhou's overarching green vision. According to the Hangzhou Green Space System Plan (2021-2035), by 2035, the city aims to provide each resident with at least 17 square meters of parkland, ensure over 95% of the population lives within a park’s service radius, and maintain a minimum of 43% green coverage across the city.

By then, Hangzhou residents will enjoy even more parks right at their doorstep. The plan includes 30 new countryside parks, over 150 urban parks, more than 300 community parks, and 500 pocket parks, ensuring greenery within 300 meters and a park within 500 meters of every home.

"I can finally work and stay in Hangzhou!" exclaimed Mary, a foreign talent hired by Zhejiang Yunduan Era of Technology after receiving her work visa.

Mary began her journey in cross-border e-commerce during her second year of graduate school and has since become a core figure at Yunduan Era. In July, after graduating from her postgraduate studies, she chose to stay in Hangzhou to pursue her career. "I've grown accustomed to this job and am optimistic about the market prospects of cross-border e-commerce," she said.

In August, with support from the E-commerce Department of the Linping District Business Bureau and the Talent Service Department (Foreign Experts Department) of the Linping District Economic and Science Technology Bureau, Mary obtained the first foreign A-type talent visa in Linping's cross-border e-commerce sector.

Recruiting foreign talent can be pivotal for many cross-border e-commerce enterprises, but visa issues have always posed significant challenges for both companies and foreign talent.

To address the challenges foreign talent face in staying in Hangzhou, the city has formulated the Standards for Highly Skilled and Outstanding Foreign Talent in Hangzhou (Trial Implementation) and the Criteria for Recognizing Outstanding Cross-Border E-Commerce Talent in Hangzhou (Trial Implementation).

These standards took effect this year. Once recognized as an outstanding foreign cross-border e-commerce talent in Hangzhou, individuals can apply for a work visa within a year.

To be eligible, individuals must be at least 18, have a diploma or higher education recognized by China's Ministry of Education or an equivalent qualification certified by the Chinese Embassy, possess at least six months of relevant work experience, and be employed by a cross-border e-commerce enterprise with a definite position.

To apply for the visa, qualified foreign cross-border e-commerce talent recommended by their enterprise must complete the Hangzhou Foreign Cross-Border E-Commerce Talent Work Permit Application Form and prepare documents.

Once the application form is submitted, the Hangzhou Municipal Bureau of Commerce and the Hangzhou Municipal Public Security Bureau will conduct the final review and release the list of foreign cross-border e-commerce talent in Hangzhou along with the certification letter.

Accreditation takes place twice a year, in May-June and November-December. The deadline for this round of applications is Nov 15. For questions, call 86-571- 85257821 for consultation.

Traditional Chinese arts like silk art and Yue Opera, often seen as pastimes of older generations, are experiencing renewed popularity as they transcend cultural boundaries and captivate new audiences. This month, these two art forms from Hangzhou have garnered widespread appeal in Paris.

Yue Opera, China's second-largest opera genre, is deeply rooted in Zhejiang culture and boasts over 100 years of history. On the evening of Oct 21, at the century-old Théatre du Gymnase Marie Belle, artists from Zhejiang Xiaobaihua Yue Opera Theater traveled thousands of miles to share the finest Chinese melodies with the Parisian audience.

The performance featured renowned plays such as Butterfly Lovers, A Dream of Red Mansions, The Orphan of Zhao, and Peony Pavilion, showcasing literature and drama with global influence as well as the pinnacle of Chinese romanticism. With its gentle singing style, elegant script, and exquisite costumes, the performance vividly brought classic scenes from Chinese literature to life, concluding to thunderous applause.

Roads connect, civilizations blossom. The "2024 Silk Road Week" concluded with a flourish on Oct 14 in Paris, featuring the opening of the exhibition Charm of the Silk Roads: Chinese Silk Arts in Paris.

Paolo Meroni, Director of Istituto Marangoni Paris, noted in his speech that Chinese silk, with its exceptional quality and craftsmanship, has long laid the foundation for incomparable elegance in fashion, enriching the materials of the French fashion industry and enhancing the brilliance of its finest designs.

Jin Jiahong, a National Master of Arts and Crafts in China, showcased her unique Hangzhou-style embroidery, kesi weaving, and gold printing, all of which were well-received by visitors.

The fashion show, Sino-French Fashion Appointment: Silk Road Heritage Innovation Design, draws inspiration from auspicious motifs of the Tang Dynasty’s Silk Roads. Design contributions were sourced from fashion designers worldwide, including Prof. Ji Xiaofen, Director of the China National Silk Museum. Over 40 sets of costumes were showcased by 20 models from Zhejiang Sci-Tech University.

Under the vibrant and diverse umbrella of Hangzhou--comprising ten urban districts, two counties (Tonglu and Chun'an), and one county-level city under its administration (Jiande)--each area boasts its own unique culture, dialect, cuisine, and customs. Chun'an County, a gem in this rich tapestry, is renowned for the breathtaking Qiandao Lake (Thousand Island Lake), a scenic reservoir with over a thousand islands. As part of the 18th Hangzhou Cultural and Creative Industry Expo, Chun'an recently held the 2024 Qiandao Lake Creative Life Week, celebrating its rich traditions and its growing role as a cultural hub.

A celebration of Xin'an Culture

Against the stunning backdrop of the Qiandao Lake, the Creative Life Week opened with performances celebrating the heritage of Xin'an Culture. Originating from the Xin'an River basin, which spans parts of Anhui and Zhejiang provinces, Xin'an Culture is known for its distinctive art, traditional medicine, cuisine, folk crafts, architecture, and local dialects.

At its heart lies Xin'an Neo-Confucianism, a philosophical school significantly developed by Zhu Xi (1130–1200), one of the most influential Confucian scholars. Zhu Xi's teachings on moral integrity and the rational order of the universe have profoundly shaped Chinese philosophy, continuing to define Xin'an Culture. His influence can be seen in architecture, paintings, and sculptures crafted from wood, brick, and stone.

During the opening ceremony, the new Xin'an Culture Book Series was launched--a collection developed over seven years, covering 18 cultural categories across 19 volumes. The Chun'an government gifted the first copies to prominent libraries and museums, emphasizing its commitment to preserving this heritage for future generations.

A showcase of Chun'an's Intangible Cultural Heritage

In an open-air square by the scenic Qiandao Lake, six cultural pavilions and a large central stage created an inviting showcase of Zhejiang's finest products. At its heart stood the Chun'an Pavilion, highlighting the area's unique local heritage. Here, visitors explored local products like gin, tea, and even caviar. Local farmers from Zitong, known as the "Home of Calligraphy and Painting", brought artworks crafted entirely by farmers rather than professional painters, reflecting a community-wide love for art.

Nearby booths displayed Chun'an's intricate wood carvings, linen embroidery, and other traditional arts representing generations-old traditions. An elderly woman demonstrated her embroidery, sharing both her art and the rich history behind each piece.

A taste of local delicacies

The event offered visitors an authentic taste of Xin'an and Chun'an cuisine, featuring traditional snacks like hairy tofu, sweet corn cakes, and rice skin. Each vendor shared stories behind their specialties; one vendor explained that her family has passed down the art of making hairy tofu for six generations, offering guests a taste of Chun'an's culinary heritage.

More than a scenic destination

Beyond its culinary heritage, Chun'an offers more than local flavors. Its most iconic feature, the Qiandao Lake--also known as the Xin'an River Reservoir--boasts 1,078 islands and is celebrated as a 5A tourist attraction with activities like boating, fishing, and camping. In addition to its natural beauty, Chun'an has hosted prominent sports events, including the Asian Games cycling and triathlon competitions. In 2024, Chun'an hosted over 50 sports events, reinforcing its reputation as a "City of Sports".

Global reach of Chun'an goods

Chun’an is also known for producing high-quality caviar, often referred to as "black gold" in Europe. With the Qiandao Lake’s pristine waters, Chun'an has become China's largest caviar production base, exporting globally. Future plans include whiskey production, with the Aucus Dundee Chun'an Whiskey Distillery combining whiskey-making with tourism. Chun'an also recently hosted the China International Whiskey Development Conference, opening doors for global collaboration.

Chun'an as a hub of tradition and innovation

"I was impressed by the variety of new foods Chun'an offers. Behind each specialty, I discovered long-standing traditions--like the woman making hairy tofu with her mother, following a family tradition now six generations old," shared Daria, a reporter for Hangzhoufeel, who attended the event.

The Qiandao Lake Creative Life Week showcased Chun'an as more than a scenic destination; it revealed a cultural hub rich in tradition and innovation. Through art, cuisine, sports, and unique products, Chun'an invites everyone to experience its vibrant heritage.