Zhejiang, A Timeless Land of Jiangnan Charm

Written by Anthony
Last update เมษายน 25, 2026

The China Journey - China -

Zhejiang, a picturesque land of water towns and rich history, blends ancient Wu-Yue culture with modern vitality. Discover its scenic beauty and dynamic spirit.

About Zhejiang

Zhejiang Province, abbreviated as “浙,” is a provincial-level administrative region of China with Hangzhou as its capital.

Located on the southeastern coast, it lies on the southern wing of the Yangtze River Delta, bordering Shanghai, Jiangsu, Fujian, Anhui, and Jiangxi.

Known for its winding Qiantang River, Zhejiang boasts the longest coastline and the most islands in China.

Covering a land area of 105,500 square kilometers and a sea area of 260,000 square kilometers, it has a humid subtropical monsoon climate.

Renowned for its rich cultural heritage, including Liangzhu and Hemudu cultures, Zhejiang is a key player in China’s modernization efforts and common prosperity initiatives.

If you want help choosing routes, trip length, and the best places to combine on a first visit, see our Zhejiang Travel Guide.

Category	Detail	Category	Detail
Administrative Division	Province	Country	People’s Republic of China
Location	Southeastern coast of China, South of Yangtze River Delta	Area	105,500 km²
Subdivisions	11 Prefecture-level cities (Hangzhou, Ningbo, Wenzhou, Jiaxing, Huzhou, Shaoxing, Jinhua, Quzhou, Zhoushan, Taizhou, Lishui)	Capital	Hangzhou (Provincial Government: 8 Shengfu Road, Xihu District)
Postal Code	310000-325800	Climate	Subtropical Monsoon Climate
Population	66.27 million (2023 year-end permanent residents)	Notable Attractions	West Lake, Wuzhen, Qiandao Lake, Putuo Mountain, Yandang Mountain, Liangzhu Ancient City Ruins, Hengdian World Studios, Xiangshan Film City, Yue Fei Mausoleum, Xixi National Wetland Park, Tianmu Mountain
Airports	Hangzhou Xiaoshan International Airport, Ningbo Lishe International Airport, Wenzhou Longwan International Airport, Zhoushan Putuoshan International Airport, Taizhou Luqiao Airport, Yiwu Airport, Quzhou Airport, Lishui Airport (under construction), Jiaxing Nanhu Airport (under renovation)	Railway Stations	Hangzhou Station, Hangzhou East Station, Hangzhou West Station, Hangzhou South Station, Ningbo Station, Wenzhou South Station
Vehicle License Plate	浙A—浙M	GDP (2024)	¥9,010 billion
GDP per Capita	¥118,496 (2022)	Current Leaders	Wang Hao (Party Secretary), Liu Jie (Governor)

Cities in Zhejiang

Scenery in Zhejiang

Zhejiang is a top travel destination in China, known for its “Picturesque Zhejiang” brand.

The province features breathtaking natural landscapes and rich cultural heritage, with 22 national scenic areas, 197 top-rated 4A attractions, and nine historical cities.

Key destinations include Hangzhou’s West Lake, Ningbo’s Snow Mountain, Wenzhou’s Yandang Mountain, and Zhoushan’s Putuo Mountain.

Renowned for its ancient towns, silk, tea, and museums, Zhejiang offers diverse experiences.

It is also home to the G20 Summit 2016, reflecting its historical and modern charm.

Food in Zhejiang

Zhejiang cuisine, or Zhe Cai, is one of China’s eight major culinary traditions, renowned for its light, fresh, and delicate flavors.

With an emphasis on seasonal ingredients, Zhejiang cuisine showcases the region’s abundant resources, including seafood, fresh produce, and specialty meats.

Key cooking techniques include frying, steaming, and braising, with over 30 methods in total.

The cuisine is characterized by its tender, crisp, and refreshing dishes, adhering to the principles of “freshness and precision.”

Its four main styles—Hangzhou, Ningbo, Shaoxing, and Wenzhou—highlight distinct regional flavors and traditions.

Intangible Cultural Heritage in Zhejiang

Zhejiang Province stands as a leader in intangible cultural heritage in China, boasting 241 national-level and 11 UNESCO-recognized heritage items as of 2022.

Celebrated traditions include Haining Shadow Puppetry and Yuhang Rolling Lights in performing arts, Longquan Celadon Craftsmanship and Dongtou Shell Carving in traditional crafts, and cultural symbols like West Lake Inkstone Seal Engraving.

Zhejiang’s commitment to preservation and innovation ensures its cultural treasures, from Dragon Well Tea Craft to Taisun Stepping Dragon Dance, continue to flourish and captivate audiences worldwide.

Intangible Cultural Heritage in Zhejiang

Zhejiang’s Provincial Flower and Tree

Zhejiang Province’s official flower is the orchid, and its tree is the camphor tree.

Orchids, known for their slender, lance-shaped leaves and fragrant blooms, symbolize elegance, purity, and virtue in Chinese culture.

Zhejiang’s rich orchid heritage dates back to the Tang dynasty, with famous varieties like “Songmei” and “Green Cloud.”

The camphor tree, prized for its aromatic wood and versatility, serves as a symbol of protection and community.

Widely cultivated in Zhejiang, ancient camphor trees, such as the Tang and Wu-Yue camphors, reflect the province’s deep historical and ecological roots.

Zhejiang’s History

Prehistoric Era: Home to Hemudu Culture (7000 years ago), Majiabang Culture (6000 years ago), and Liangzhu Culture (5000 years ago), showcasing early clan society.
Spring and Autumn Period (770–476 BCE): Divided between the Wu and Yue kingdoms.
Warring States Period (475–221 BCE): Became part of Chu after the conquest of Yue in 323 BCE.
Qin Dynasty (221–206 BCE): Divided into Kuaiji, Zhang, and Minzhong prefectures, with 15 counties established in Zhejiang.
Tang Dynasty (618–907): Included in Jiangnan Dao, later split into Zhejiang East and West Daos, marking the first use of “Zhejiang” as an administrative name.
Five Dynasties and Ten Kingdoms (907–960): Became part of the Wu Yue Kingdom under Qian Liu, with Hangzhou as its capital.
Southern Song Dynasty (1127–1279): Capital established in Lin’an (modern Hangzhou), dividing the region into Eastern and Western Zhejiang.
Yuan Dynasty (1271–1368): Formed Jiangzhe Province, beginning the modern provincial system.
Ming Dynasty (1368–1644): Zhejiang Province officially established, administrative boundaries stabilized.
Modern Era (1949): Liberated during the Chinese Civil War, Zhejiang became a key region of the People’s Republic of China.

Location of Zhejiang

Zhejiang Province is located on the southeastern coast of China, forming the southern wing of the Yangtze River Delta.

It spans between latitudes 27°02′–31°11′ N and longitudes 118°01′–123°10′ E.

Bordered by the East China Sea to the east, it neighbors Shanghai and Jiangsu to the north, Fujian to the south, and Jiangxi and Anhui to the west.

With a land area of 105,500 square kilometers and a sea area of 260,000 square kilometers, Zhejiang boasts 2,878 islands larger than 500 square meters, making it the province with the most islands in China.

Topography of Zhejiang

Zhejiang Province features diverse landforms, with 74.6% mountainous areas, 5.1% water bodies, and 20.3% flatlands, earning it the description “seven parts mountains, one part water, and two parts farmland.”

The terrain slopes from the southwest to the northeast, forming six major regions: the water-rich northern plains, eastern coastal plains and hills, central basins, southwestern hills and mountains, southeastern coastal plains, and offshore islands.

The province’s highest peak, Huangmaojian in Longquan, stands at 1,929 meters.

Zhoushan Island, China’s fourth-largest island, exemplifies Zhejiang’s rich geographical diversity.

Climate in Zhejiang

Zhejiang Province features a subtropical monsoon climate with moderate temperatures, distinct seasons, abundant sunshine, and ample rainfall.

The annual average temperature ranges from 15℃ to 18℃, with January being the coldest and July the hottest month.

Annual precipitation averages between 1,100-2,000 mm, with concentrated rainfall in May and June.

Influenced by the ocean and Southeast Asian monsoons, Zhejiang experiences significant seasonal wind and rainfall variations.

Dual weather systems from the westerlies and easterlies result in frequent natural disasters, including typhoons, heavy rain, droughts, cold waves, and hailstorms.

Zhejiang’s Diverse Natural Resources

Zhejiang Province is rich in diverse natural resources.

It receives abundant rainfall, averaging 1,600 mm annually, with total water resources of 93.7 billion cubic meters.

Despite this, the high population density results in relatively low per capita water availability.

The province boasts significant land resources, with vast forest areas, agricultural lands, and wetlands.

Zhejiang is home to abundant mineral resources, including world-leading reserves of alunite and steatite, alongside notable deposits of fluorite and bentonite.

Its extensive 6,486 km coastline, the longest in China, supports thriving fisheries, ports, and oil exploration.

Additionally, Zhejiang excels in renewable energy production, leveraging wind and solar power for sustainable development.

Zhejiang’s Biodiversity

Zhejiang Province boasts rich biodiversity with over 3,000 plant species, including 45 nationally protected wild plants.

Known as the “Botanical Treasure of Southeast China,” it has 6.68 million hectares of forest land, with a forest coverage rate of 60.5%.

The province also leads in bamboo resources, accounting for one-seventh of China’s bamboo area and one-third of its bamboo industry output.

The forest ecosystem is well-structured, with 54.2% of forest areas having complete tree, shrub, and herb layers.

Zhejiang is also home to diverse wildlife, including 123 nationally protected species, such as 22 first-class protected animals.

Population in Zhejiang

As of the end of 2023, Zhejiang Province had a permanent population of 66.27 million, an increase of 500,000 compared to 2022.

The urbanization rate reached 74.2%, with 49.19 million urban residents and 17.08 million rural residents.

The male population was 34.59 million (52.2%), while females accounted for 31.68 million (47.8%).

The age structure included 13.4% aged 0-15, 65.1% aged 16-59, and 21.5% aged 60 and above.

In 2023, Zhejiang recorded 383,000 births and 440,000 deaths, leading to a negative natural population growth of -57,000, with a birth rate of 5.80‰ and a death rate of 6.66‰.

Dialect in Zhejiang

The majority of Zhejiang’s population speaks Wu Chinese, accounting for over 98% of the province’s total population.

In addition to Wu, other languages spoken in certain counties and cities include Southern Min (Hokkien), She (an ethnic minority language), Hakka, and Mandarin.

Wu Chinese in Zhejiang is divided into five main dialect groups: Taihu Wu (spoken in Hangzhou, Jiaxing, Huzhou, Ningbo, Shaoxing, and Zhoushan), Taizhou Wu (in Taizhou and parts of Ningbo and Wenzhou), Jin-Qian Wu (in Jinhua and Quzhou), Oujiang Wu (in Wenzhou), and Shangli Wu (in Lishui).

These dialects contribute to Zhejiang’s rich linguistic diversity.

Religious Beliefs in Zhejiang

Zhejiang Province is home to five major religions: Buddhism, Taoism, Islam, Catholicism, and Protestant Christianity.

These religions have a long history in the region, with Buddhism and Taoism present for over 1,800 years, Islam for nearly 1,400 years, Catholicism for around 400 years, and Protestant Christianity for over 150 years.

Zhejiang has 13 nationally significant Buddhist temples, including Mount Putuo, one of China’s Four Sacred Buddhist Mountains.

Guoqing Temple on Mount Tiantai is revered as the birthplace of the Tiantai School in Japan and Korea, while Tian Tong Temple in Ningbo is honored by Japanese Buddhism.

Additionally, three of China’s top ten Taoist sacred sites are in Zhejiang, and Phoenix Mosque in Hangzhou is one of the four ancient Islamic mosques in southeastern China.

Economy of Zhejiang

Zhejiang Province boasts one of the most balanced economies in China, with Hangzhou, Ningbo, Shaoxing, and Wenzhou as its four economic pillars.

In 2024, the province’s GDP reached ¥9.01 trillion, growing 5.5% year-over-year, outpacing the national average of 5.0%.

The industrial sector contributed significantly, with a 7.5% increase in output, while private enterprises drove exports, reaching 100,361 exporting companies.

Per capita disposable income was ¥67,013, exceeding the national average by ¥25,699.

Zhejiang also led in entrepreneurship, adding 1.62 million new businesses, with private enterprises making up 96.8% of the total.

Retail sales reached ¥3.4 trillion, ranking fourth in China, supported by government-driven trade-in programs and consumer incentives.

Education in Zhejiang

At the end of 2023, Zhejiang Province had 7,067 kindergartens, 3,144 primary schools, and 1,794 middle schools, with an enrollment rate of 99.99% for both primary and middle school students.

The province had 650 high schools, enrolling 308,000 students, and 246 vocational schools with 503,000 students.

Zhejiang also had 109 higher education institutions, including Zhejiang University and Westlake University.

The province enrolled 54,300 graduate students, including 6,300 doctoral students.

There were 377,000 full-time teachers in compulsory education, and 90.1% of university faculty held a master’s degree or higher, ensuring a high-quality education system.

Air Transportation in Zhejiang

In 2024, Zhejiang Province handled 84 million passengers, ranking fifth in China, with Hangzhou Airport alone expecting 48 million passengers.

The province’s air cargo volume reached 308,300 tons, a 32% year-on-year increase in international freight.

Passenger routes include Singapore, Thailand, Korea, and major European cities, while cargo routes expanded to Miami, Vancouver, Los Angeles, Tokyo, and Kuala Lumpur.

Zhejiang operates six airports, with Hangzhou, Ningbo, and Wenzhou as key hubs.

Jiaxing Nanhu Airport, the Yangtze River Delta’s first cargo-focused airport, is set to open in late 2025.

Railway Network in Zhejiang

Zhejiang’s railway network includes traditional lines like Zhe-Gan Railway and Hangzhou-Shanghai Railway, as well as high-speed railways such as Hangzhou-Shenzhen, Nanjing-Hangzhou, and Hangzhou-Changsha.

The Huzhou-Hangzhou High-Speed Railway, stretching 137.8 km with a 350 km/h speed, enhances connectivity.

Passenger transport is growing, with Hangzhou West Station serving as a major hub.

Yiwu’s China-Europe freight trains now reach 50+ countries, while fast logistics routes cut shipping times by 18 hours.

Zhejiang continues expanding its railway infrastructure, strengthening national and regional links.

Road Transport in Zhejiang

Zhejiang’s road transportation plays a crucial role in mobility.

During Spring Festival 2024, 64.59 million passengers traveled via roads, with self-driving trips reaching 410 million, accounting for nearly 90% of road travel.

The “Zhe Ke Xing” intercity bus service was introduced, boosting passenger flow 2-3 times.

In freight transport, Zhejiang completed 3.1 billion tons of road freight in 2022, with the first TIR international road shipment successfully launched in 2024, improving customs efficiency.

Zhejiang continues to expand road networks, address bottlenecks, and enhance infrastructure, including charging stations and noise reduction projects.

Public Transportation in Zhejiang

Zhejiang has developed an integrated urban and rural public transport system, with an 88.9% integration rate by the end of 2023 and full coverage of village bus stops.

Cities like Hangzhou, Ningbo, and Jinhua have been recognized as national public transport model cities, with advanced smart services including electronic payments and digital bus stops.

The province boasts a high-speed rail network centered in Hangzhou, enabling fast travel across Zhejiang and beyond.

Metro systems in Hangzhou and Ningbo are expanding, with Hangzhou ranking sixth nationwide in daily metro ridership.

Water transport options include inland shipping and water buses in cities like Hangzhou.

Taxis, ride-hailing services, and scenic shuttle buses ensure convenient travel, while bike-sharing programs provide eco-friendly mobility.

China Province Basic Info

Anhui

Fujian, Home to Mazu Beliefs, Nanyin, and Hakka Tulou

Gansu

Guangdong, the Starting Point of the Maritime Silk Road

Guangxi, Ba Gui Culture & Iconic Guilin Mountain Views

Guizhou Province: Basic Info, Culture & Food

Hainan

Hebei

Heilongjiang, Best China’s Ice-Snow Tourism Destination

Henan

Hubei

Hunan, Heart of Chu-Han Culture and Red Culture

Inner Mongolia, Kingdom of Grasslands, Ocean of Songs, Homeland of Wine

Jiangsu, a land of Wu charm and Han elegance

Jiangxi

Jilin, Snow Paradise, Changbai Mountain, and Winter Fishing

Liaoning

Ningxia

Qinghai

Shaanxi, A Birthplace of Chinese Nation & Civilization

Shandong, Land of Qi and Lu, Hometown of Confucius

Shanxi

Sichuan, Land of Shu Civilization, Hotpot, and Pandas

Taiwan, a Cultural Blend of Hakka, Indigenous, and Western Influences

Tianjin

Tibet/Xizang

Xinjiang, Ethnic Customs of the Western Regions

Yunnan, A Cultural and Natural Paradise with Scenic Wonders

FAQs About Zhejiang

What is Zhejiang famous for?

Zhejiang is famous for many aspects. In terms of natural landscapes, it is home to West Lake, Yandang Mountain, and the Qiantang River Tide. Culturally, it has the Liangzhu and Hemudu cultures, as well as traditional operas like Yue Opera and national intangible cultural heritage such as Yuhang Rolling Lantern. In cuisine, Zhejiang cuisine is well-known for dishes like West Lake Vinegar Fish and Dongpo Pork.

What language do they speak in Zhejiang?

The primary language spoken in Zhejiang is Wu Chinese. Other dialects include Hui Chinese, Jianghuai Mandarin, and Min Chinese (spoken in Cangnan and Pingyang). The She ethnic minority also speaks the She language.

Is Zhejiang a city in China?

No, Zhejiang is a provincial-level administrative region in China. Its capital city is Hangzhou.

What is Zhejiang food known for?

Zhejiang cuisine is known for its fresh, fragrant, crisp, tender, and light flavors. The cooking techniques often include stewing, braising, simmering, slow cooking, and steaming, which emphasize preserving the original taste of ingredients. Signature dishes include West Lake Vinegar Fish, Longjing Shrimp, Beggar’s Chicken, and Dongpo Pork, as well as famous snacks like Jiaxing Zongzi (sticky rice dumplings) and Ningbo Tangyuan (glutinous rice balls).

What is the climate in Zhejiang?

Zhejiang has a subtropical monsoon humid climate, characterized by moderate temperatures, distinct seasons, ample sunlight, and abundant rainfall. Summers are often accompanied by typhoons. The average annual temperature is around 18°C, with an annual rainfall of 1,000–1,900 mm and annual sunshine duration of approximately 1,710–2,100 hours.

What religion is Zhejiang China?

The main religions in Zhejiang include Taoism, Buddhism, Islam, Catholicism, and Protestant Christianity.

Anthony

I’m Anthony, the founder and editor of The China Journey. I create practical, experience-based guides covering travel, food, and culture across China, with a focus on helping international travelers make clear planning decisions.

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Attraction

Zhejiang, A Timeless Land of Jiangnan Charm

About Zhejiang

Cities in Zhejiang

Shaoxing

Jiaxing

Huzhou

Jinhua

Taizhou

Quzhou

Zhoushan

Lishui

Scenery in Zhejiang

Food in Zhejiang

Intangible Cultural Heritage in Zhejiang

Intangible Cultural Heritage in Zhejiang

Yuhang Rolling Lantern

Yue Opera

Haining Shadow Puppetry

Qingtian Stone Carving

Ningbo Red Gold Lacquer Wood Carving

Xianju Lanterns

Shengzhou Bamboo Weaving

Chicken-Blood Stone Carving

Tin Carving

Ou Embroidery

Colorful Stone Inlay

Ningbo Gold and Silver Embroidery

Longquan Celadon Craftsmanship

Longquan Sword Forging

Shaoxing Yellow Wine Brewing

West Lake Longjing Tea Craft

Zhejiang’s Provincial Flower and Tree

Zhejiang’s History

Location of Zhejiang

Topography of Zhejiang

Climate in Zhejiang

Zhejiang’s Diverse Natural Resources

Zhejiang’s Biodiversity

Population in Zhejiang

Dialect in Zhejiang

Religious Beliefs in Zhejiang

Economy of Zhejiang

Education in Zhejiang

Air Transportation in Zhejiang

Railway Network in Zhejiang

Road Transport in Zhejiang

Public Transportation in Zhejiang

China Province Basic Info

FAQs About Zhejiang

What is Zhejiang famous for?

What language do they speak in Zhejiang?

Is Zhejiang a city in China?

What is Zhejiang food known for?

What is the climate in Zhejiang?

What religion is Zhejiang China?

Anthony

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