The Qiantang River was originally known as Zhe River (Zhejiang), which served as the inspiration for the name of Zhejiang Province. It is the largest river in the province with its lower course flowing 93 kilometers before reaching Hangzhou Bay and emptying into the East China Sea.

The Qiantang River tidal bore is a natural wonder of the world. Together with the Amazon and the Ganges, the Qiantang River has been internationally recognized as carrying one of the three strongest tidal bores in the world. The tradition of viewing the Qiantang River tidal bore in Hangzhou dates back more than 2,000 years.

In the nine centuries since the Southern Song Dynasty (1127-1279), Hangzhou has expanded outward from West Lake. Beginning in the 21st century, the expansion of Hangzhou’s urban areas has proceeded along the banks of the Qiantang River.