Jiaxing

Du Halde - Description de la Chine - Villes de Kia hing fou - Hou tcheou fou

子城正门

月河

Zhejiang Jiaxing - Jiashan IMG 8563 Humin commune Shiyanli area - Hukun Expw G-60

Shiing-Shen Chern

Jiaxing is a prefecture-level city in northern Zhejiang province, China. Situated in the Yangtze River Delta, it borders Hangzhou to the southwest, Huzhou to the west, Shanghai to the northeast, and the Jiangsu province to the north. The city is known for its rich history, cultural heritage, and significant economic development in recent years. Jiaxing is an important transportation hub, owing to its strategic location near major cities and its extensive network of waterways, highways, and railways, including the Grand Canal of China.

History

Jiaxing has a history that dates back over 7,000 years. During the Spring and Autumn period, it was known as Zuili and was part of the state of Yue. In the Tang Dynasty, Jiaxing became a prosperous city due to the development of sericulture and the textile industry. The city played a significant role during the Southern Song Dynasty as a commercial center. In the 20th century, Jiaxing was the site of the First National Congress of the Chinese Communist Party in 1921, an event of profound historical significance that marked the birth of the Party.

Geography

Jiaxing is characterized by its flat terrain, numerous rivers, and lakes, including the South Lake, which is a famous scenic spot in the city. The climate is subtropical with distinct seasons, featuring hot summers and cold, damp winters.

Economy

The economy of Jiaxing is diverse, with strong sectors in textiles, machinery, and food processing. In recent years, the city has also seen significant growth in technology and service industries. Jiaxing is part of the Shanghai metropolitan area, one of the largest economic zones in China, which has contributed to its rapid economic development.

Culture

Jiaxing is home to a rich cultural heritage, including traditional operas, folk arts, and crafts. The city is famous for its zongzi, a traditional Chinese rice dish, especially during the Dragon Boat Festival. Jiaxing's South Lake is a historic site that attracts many visitors interested in its beauty and historical significance.

Tourism

Tourist attractions in Jiaxing include the South Lake, where the First National Congress of the Chinese Communist Party took place, and the ancient town of Xitang, known for its waterways, bridges, and old buildings. Jiaxing also serves as a gateway to the nearby West Lake in Hangzhou, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Transportation

Jiaxing benefits from an extensive transportation network. The city is served by high-speed trains, connecting it with major cities such as Shanghai and Hangzhou. The Hangzhou Bay Bridge facilitates road travel to Shanghai and Ningbo. Additionally, Jiaxing's port is an important regional shipping center.

Education

The city is home to several institutions of higher education, including Jiaxing University, which contributes to the local talent pool and supports the city's economic development.

Administration

Jiaxing administers two districts, two county-level cities, and three counties. Its municipal government is responsible for the city's economic development, urban planning, and public services.