West Lake Dream Chasing: Hangzhou

Author: Wang Xufeng
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2001-02-01
Features: In the year 835 AD, the famous poet Yao He of the middle Tang Dynasty was appointed as the governor of Hangzhou. The former governor of Hangzhou, the great poet Bai Juyi, who was then in Luoyang, excitedly sent him a poem, beginning with: "Let us chat about Hangzhou in detail, take care for me and do not be idle"; and concluding with: "I am delighted that the poet takes charge, flying a cup to celebrate the land and mountains." Over a thousand years ago, the great poet realized that Hangzhou was a place worth "chatting about in detail," "needing attention," and "not to be idle." If it were under the guidance of a poet, it would be cause for celebration, with a cup raised in honor of the West Lake landscape. To chat about Hangzhou, where should one begin?
First, let us talk about Hangzhou's long history. Between 50,000 to 100,000 years ago, ancient human footprints appeared in Jiande, within the jurisdiction of Hangzhou. Over 4,000 years ago, the Liangqing in Yuhang rose as the dawn of human civilization. During the Spring and Autumn and Warring States periods, Wu and Yue vied for dominance here. When Qin Shi Huang unified the empire, Hangzhou became part of his realm. In the subsequent dynasties, Hangzhou's status grew increasingly important. Wu and Yue made it their capital, and the Southern Song Dynasty later established it as their capital, making it one of the largest cities in the world at the time and solidifying its historical status as one of China's seven ancient capitals.
Second, let us talk about Hangzhou's breathtaking natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. It is said that "Heaven is above, and Suzhou and Hangzhou are below," and the beauty of Hangzhou is renowned worldwide. The West Lake is to Hangzhou what bright eyes and elegant brows are to a beauty, already making one feel at ease and exhilarated. With the construction and creativity of generations of people, the exquisite beauty of Hangzhou leaves one speechless. As you wander through Hangzhou's mountains and waters, you are also walking through its spiritual world. The dense cultural richness infuses the beautiful landscapes, much like a peerless beauty with profound inner depth. Such a graceful and gentle woman—how could a gentleman not be restless and yearn for her?
Third, let us talk about Hangzhou's abundance and prosperity. The fertile land of the Jiangnan region naturally has its advantages in terms of climate and geography, but the diligence and wisdom of the people across generations, along with the wise governance of some rulers in history, have shaped a spirit of this place—one that is passionate about building a home while never abandoning a fervent desire for material well-being alongside an unwavering pursuit of the spiritual world. This historically accumulated spiritual wealth plays a pivotal role in Hangzhou's modernization process under reform and opening up today.
Fourth, let us talk about Hangzhou's significant contributions to China and even all of humanity in terms of historical progress, culture, and thought. It is commonly believed that Hangzhou is a land of wealth and elegance, capable of producing great scholars but not great sages—this is a misconception. The West Lake is the best place to thoughts. Beyond the cultural achievements of masters in Hangzhou, including in religion, Confucianism, literature, and other fields, the modern history of Hangzhou has been marked by countless righteous men and women who have left us invaluable spiritual treasures. The Xinhai Revolution, the May Fourth New Culture Movement, and the founding of the Communist Party of China all left a profound historical imprint on Hangzhou. Su Dongpo once wrote: "To compare West Lake to Xi Shi, light or heavy makeup, she is always perfect." Hangzhou is a city that can be discussed from various perspectives, for its richness is immense. And this book takes you through the door of cultural landscapes to glimpse its grandeur. If the scenery here leaves you captivated, then the real Hangzhou, in the beautiful Jiangnan region, warmly welcomes you.
Wang Xufeng