Zhejiang

Putuo Mountain Scenic Area, a sacred Buddhist pilgrimage site and UNESCO-recognized natural wonder, is located on Putuo Island off the eastern coast of Zhoushan, Zhejiang Province. Renowned as the "Buddha Realm in the Sea," it is one of China’s four major Buddhist mountains and the primary shrine of Guanyin, the Bodhisattva of Compassion. With a history spanning over 1,000 years, the island combines breathtaking coastal scenery, ancient temples, and profound spiritual energy, attracting millions of devotees and travelers annually.

The West Lake Scenic Area, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2011, is renowned as one of China’s most iconic landscapes, blending natural beauty with centuries of cultural heritage. Encircling a serene freshwater lake in Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, this 59-square-kilometer area has inspired poets, painters, and emperors for millennia. Its harmonious fusion of pagodas, causeways, gardens, and temples against misty mountains and tranquil waters embodies the Chinese aesthetic of "mountain-water harmony."

Lingyin Temple, one of the most renowned Buddhist temples in China, is nestled amidst the lush greenery of Feilai Peak in Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province. Established in the 4th century AD during the Eastern Jin Dynasty, it has a history spanning over 1,600 years, making it a significant site for Buddhist worship and cultural heritage. The temple's serene atmosphere, ancient architecture, and rich history attract countless pilgrims and tourists annually.

Wuzhen, a quintessential water town in Zhejiang Province, is renowned for its ancient canals, stone bridges, and traditional wooden houses. Often dubbed the "Venice of the East," it is divided into two main areas: Dongzha (East Zone), a preserved historic district, and Xizha (West Zone), known for its serene nightscapes and cultural performances. With a history dating back over 1,300 years, Wuzhen offers a glimpse into China’s ancient waterborne lifestyle, attracting visitors with its timeless charm and vibrant cultural heritage.

Xitang Ancient Town, a hidden gem in Zhejiang Province, is celebrated for its labyrinthine waterways, ancient stone bridges, and well-preserved Ming and Qing Dynasty architecture. Known as the "Sleeping Beauty of the Water Towns," Xitang is distinguished by its covered corridors (langtang)—a network of raised walkways along canals that shield pedestrians from rain and sun. With a history spanning over 1,200 years, this UNESCO-recognized town offers a tranquil escape into China’s traditional waterborne lifestyle, where time seems to slow amidst the gentle lapping of canal waters and the rustle of willow trees.