Zhejiang Province

Zhejiang is a coastal province located in the eastern part of China. It is bordered by Jiangsu and Shanghai to the north, Anhui to the northwest, Jiangxi to the west, and Fujian to the south. To the east is the East China Sea. Zhejiang is known for its picturesque landscapes, including the renowned West Lake in Hangzhou, which is also the provincial capital.

History

Zhejiang's history dates back to ancient times, with its name derived from the Zhe River, an old name for the Qiantang River. Historically, it was also known as "Yue", which is particularly significant during the Spring and Autumn period when the state of Yue occupied much of the region. Zhejiang was a significant site during the Southern Song Dynasty, with Hangzhou serving as the dynasty's capital.

Geography

Zhejiang is characterized by its hilly landscapes and numerous rivers and lakes. The province's topography is marked by the Tianmu Mountains to the west and the coastal plains in the east. It has a humid subtropical climate with distinct seasons, ample rainfall, and occasional typhoons.

Economy

Zhejiang is one of China's wealthiest provinces and has one of the highest GDP per capita in the country. The economy is diverse, with strong sectors in manufacturing, particularly in textiles and garments, automotive, and electronics. The province is also known for its thriving private sector, often referred to as the "Zhejiang Model". Cities like Yiwu are famous for small commodity trade and vibrant markets, making it a global hub for wholesale goods.

Culture

Zhejiang's culture is rich and varied, known for contributions to Chinese culture such as silk production, tea cultivation, and various forms of opera, including Yue opera. The province is also famous for its traditional handicrafts, such as Longquan celadon, which is a type of green-glazed Chinese ceramic.

Tourism

Tourism plays a significant role in Zhejiang's economy. The province is home to many historical and natural sites, including the West Lake, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the ancient water town of Wuzhen. Other notable attractions include the Mount Putuo, one of the four sacred mountains in Chinese Buddhism, and the Tiantai Mountain, which is significant in the history of Buddhism in China.

Administrative divisions

Zhejiang is divided into 11 prefecture-level divisions: all cities (including two sub-provincial cities). These are further divided into counties, county-level cities, and districts.

See also

• List of Chinese provinces by GDP
• Economy of China
• Culture of China
• Tourism in China