Perhaps all countries are filled with contrasts but we rarely see it in our own. The US encompasses a sometimes uneasy alliance of many disparate groups and ideas.
Why would China be anything else? Nonetheless, it’s interesting that in a communist country, capitalism is so in-your-face. Street vendors, artisans, and hawkers who have perfected their relentless techniques.
And, in a country where theism of all kinds is disdained, Chan (Zen) Buddhism, temples, and the ancient cultures are still there.
If I made a list of my favorite cities, Hangzhou would surely make it into the top five.
With the serenity of West Lake, the temples, the restored historic district, and tea plantations, make sure your next trip to China includes the city of Hangzhou. It’s easily reach by train from Shanghai.
There’s a saying in China: In heaven there is paradise, on earth, Suzhou and Hangzhou
Read more at: OffbeatTravel – Hangzhou, China
Tags: China