One of the seven ancient capitals of China, Hangzhou has been continuously settled for 8,000 years and has existed as a city for the last 5,000 years. It was officially named “Hangzhou” 1,400 years ago during the Sui Dynasty (581-618).

Three periods of Hangzhou’s history had a significant impact on ancient China. The 5,000-year-old city of Liangzhu, which sits north of modern-day Hangzhou, has been recognized as “China’s first city” by many in the archaeological community. The kingdom of Wuyue, which ruled the area in the 10th century, promoted livelihoods and Buddhist traditions, implemented policies that defended its territory while allowing its people to live in peace, and created “heaven on earth.” The Southern Song Dynasty (1127-1279) designated Hangzhou its capital in 1138. Under Song Dynasty rule, Hangzhou expanded to a population of more than 1.5 million and developed into the world’s greatest metropolis, where culture, commerce, the arts, industry, and technology thrived. During this period of great prosperity, Hangzhou became a dynamic center for trade and foreign exchange.

A tendency to accept and assimilate other cultures has been a defining feature in Hangzhou’s development, as evidenced in the blending of northern and southern cultures, imperial and common customs, and Eastern and Western civilizations. Over the past 40 years in particular, Hangzhou has hosted frequent events to promote international cooperation and exchange. It has blossomed into a city that is “exquisite and harmonious, big-hearted and open-minded.”