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Hang Zhou
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Hangzhou, the capital of Zhejiang Province, is located on China’s southeastern coast along the lower reaches of the Qiantang River. With approximately 5,000 years of civilization and 2,200 years of urban history, it is one of China’s Eight Great Ancient Capitals.
The city served as the capital of the Wuyue Kingdom and the Southern Song Dynasty, when it was known as Lin’an. Its renowned West Lake was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2011.
Today, Hangzhou is both a historic cultural destination and a major center of China’s digital economy. Home to Alibaba Group, the city is a national pioneer in smart city development and internet healthcare.
Combining its rich cultural heritage with modern technological innovation, Hangzhou hosted the 2016 G20 Summit and the 2023 Asian Games.
We noticed that countless international patients urgently need a trustworthy local team who truly understands China’s medical system. Therefore, we gathered professional medical talents, rooted in China’s medical industry, and built JoyfulMedical. We are not a cold intermediary; we are the bridge between global patients and China’s high-quality medical resources.
12.62
Permanent resident population(million)
16,850
Administrative area(square kilometers)
2.19
Total GDP (trillion/RMB)
10
Municipal districts
- Local core medical strengths
A Leading Medical Center in the Yangtze River Delta
Hangzhou is the medical center of Zhejiang Province and a major healthcare hub in the southern Yangtze River Delta.
The city is home to more than 30 Grade III, Class A hospitals, with 4.32 physicians, 5.11 registered nurses, and 7.86 hospital beds per 1,000 permanent residents.
Led by the affiliated hospitals of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou has developed clinical strengths in infectious diseases, cardiovascular medicine, minimally invasive surgery, reproductive medicine, oncology, and traditional Chinese medicine.
As a major center of China’s digital economy, Hangzhou is also a pioneer in internet healthcare, offering online consultations, electronic prescriptions, mobile insurance payments, and AI-assisted diagnosis.
By the end of 2024, the city had 6,327 medical and health institutions, including 412 hospitals with approximately 89,000 beds.
30+
Grade II-A hospitals
6,327
Medical institutions
4.32
Physicians per 1,000 residents
89,000
Hospital beds
Zhejiang Hospital Cluster & Advanced Clinical Medicine
Infectious Diseases / Cardiovascular Medicine / Minimally Invasive Surgery
Hangzhou is home to several nationally recognized hospitals, including the First Affiliated Hospital, Second Affiliated Hospital, and Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine.
The First Affiliated Hospital specializes in infectious diseases, liver failure, artificial liver support, and emerging infectious disease prevention.
The Second Affiliated Hospital has established clinical strengths in cardiovascular intervention, emergency medicine, and neurosurgery.
Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital is recognized for its international hospital management practices and minimally invasive surgical techniques.
The First and Second Affiliated Hospitals have consistently ranked among China’s top 20 hospitals in the Fudan China Hospital Rankings.
TCM Heritage & Time-Honored Medical Brands
Traditional Chinese Medicine / Acupuncture / Preventive Medicine
Hangzhou is an important center of traditional Chinese medicine, with a medical heritage represented by historic institutions such as Hu Qing Yu Tang.
Founded in 1874 by Hu Xueyan, Hu Qing Yu Tang is one of China’s most renowned traditional Chinese medicine brands. Its TCM culture is included in China’s National Intangible Cultural Heritage list.
Other century-old institutions, including Fang Hui Chun Tang and Ye Zhong De Tang, continue to preserve traditional medical practices.
The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University serves as a provincial center for TCM clinical care, teaching, and research.
Its specialties include TCM gastroenterology, hematology, rheumatology, adjunctive cancer care, and preventive medicine.
Digital Health & Internet Healthcare Innovation
Online Consultations / AI-Assisted Diagnosis / Telemedicine
Hangzhou is a major innovation center for China’s internet healthcare industry.
The city is home to DXY (Dingxiangyuan) and WeDoctor, two prominent digital healthcare platforms.
Through its Healthy Hangzhou initiative, the city has introduced digital healthcare services, including electronic health cards, online follow-up consultations, electronic prescriptions, and mobile medical insurance payments.
Supported by Alibaba Cloud and the city’s digital infrastructure, Hangzhou is advancing AI-assisted medical imaging, intelligent chronic disease management, and telemedicine.
These technologies support more efficient healthcare services and provide medical travelers with convenient digital access to medical information and follow-up care.
Reproductive Medicine, Infectious Diseases & Specialty Care
Reproductive Medicine / Infectious Diseases / Precision Oncology
Hangzhou has established specialized medical capabilities in reproductive medicine, infectious diseases, and oncology.
The Women’s Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine was among China’s earliest institutions to introduce assisted reproductive technology and serves as a National Regional Medical Center for obstetrics and gynecology.
The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University is recognized for its clinical research and treatment of viral hepatitis, HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis, and emerging infectious diseases.
Zhejiang Cancer Hospital specializes in precision treatment for lung, esophageal, breast, and other cancers.
Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital has also developed advanced minimally invasive surgery and day-surgery services.
- List of key medical institutions
The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine
Founded in 1947, the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University is a comprehensive hospital integrating clinical care, teaching, research, prevention, and healthcare services.
The hospital houses a State Key Laboratory and National Clinical Research Center for infectious diseases, with clinical expertise in artificial liver support, liver transplantation, infectious microecology, and emerging infectious disease control.
It operates multiple campuses, including Qingchun, Yuhang, and Zhijiang, and serves as the host institution for the Zhejiang Provincial Clinical Center for Public Health.
- No. 79 Qingchun Road, Shangcheng District, Hangzhou (Qingchun Campus)
The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine (SAHZU)
Founded in 1869 as Kwang Chi Hospital, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University is one of the oldest Western medical institutions in Zhejiang Province.
With more than 150 years of history, the hospital has developed clinical strengths in cardiology, emergency medicine, neurosurgery, general surgery, and oncology.
It serves as a core institution of the National Clinical Research Center for Cardiovascular and Cerebrovascular Diseases, with expertise in critical care and minimally invasive interventional therapy.
- No. 88 Jiefang Road, Shangcheng District, Hangzhou (Jiefang Road Campus)
Key Speclalties
Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine
Founded with financial support from Sir Run Run Shaw and the Zhejiang provincial government, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital opened in 1994.
It was the first public hospital in mainland China to receive Joint Commission International (JCI) accreditation.
The hospital is recognized for its international management practices and minimally invasive surgical techniques.
Its major clinical specialties include general surgery, cardiology, gastroenterology, dentistry, and reproductive medicine.
The hospital has also developed day-surgery services and medical consortium programs.
- No. 3 Qingchun East Road, Shangcheng District, Hangzhou
Zhejiang Provincial People’s Hospital
Established in 1984, Zhejiang Provincial People’s Hospital is a comprehensive hospital under the Zhejiang Provincial Health Commission.
The hospital integrates clinical care, research, teaching, disease prevention, healthcare, and rehabilitation services.
Its clinical strengths include general surgery, cardiothoracic surgery, urology, nephrology, and emergency medicine.
It also serves as a provincial training base for primary healthcare professionals and a provincial emergency medical rescue base.
- No. 158 Shangtang Road, Gongshu District, Hangzhou
Zhejiang Cancer Hospital
Founded in 1963, Zhejiang Cancer Hospital is one of China’s earliest cancer specialty hospitals.
The hospital integrates cancer prevention, clinical treatment, research, teaching, and rehabilitation.
It hosts the Institute of Cancer and Basic Medicine of the Chinese Academy of Sciences and specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of lung, esophageal, breast, head and neck, and gynecologic cancers.
The hospital is also a designated institution for the development of a National Regional Cancer Medical Center.
- No. 1 Banshan East Road, Gongshu District, Hangzhou
The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University (Zhejiang Provincial Hospital of TCM)
Founded in 1931, the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University is a comprehensive traditional Chinese medicine hospital integrating clinical care, teaching, research, rehabilitation, and preventive healthcare.
The hospital combines traditional Chinese medicine with modern medical practices.
Its clinical specialties include TCM gastroenterology, hematology, rheumatology, adjunctive cancer care, acupuncture, tuina, and preventive medicine.
It is a National TCM Clinical Research Base and a key hospital under the National TCM Inheritance and Innovation Project.
- No. 54 Youdian Road, Shangcheng District, Hangzhou
- Local cultural characteristics
Hangzhou’s Cultural Heritage & Song-Dynasty Elegance
Hangzhou is one of China’s Eight Great Ancient Capitals and among the first cities designated as National Historic and Cultural Cities.
From the ancient Liangzhu civilization to the Wuyue Kingdom and the Southern Song Dynasty, Hangzhou has accumulated a rich cultural heritage spanning thousands of years.
Known as the City of Silk and Capital of Tea, Hangzhou is celebrated for its Longjing tea, silk craftsmanship, Yue opera, and Song-dynasty cultural traditions.
The landscape of West Lake has inspired generations of poets, artists, and scholars, shaping the city’s distinctive cultural identity.
Today, Hangzhou combines its traditional heritage with modern digital innovation, reflecting its city spirit of refinement, harmony, openness, and inclusiveness.
Longjing Tea
Longjing, or Dragon Well tea, is one of China’s most renowned green teas, grown in the hills surrounding West Lake.
It is celebrated for its four distinctive qualities: green color, rich aroma, sweet taste, and elegant shape.
The pre-Qingming harvest is particularly prized for its delicate flavor and limited seasonal availability.
Silk Culture
Known as the Home of Silk, Hangzhou has a silk-making heritage dating back approximately 4,700 years to the Liangzhu civilization.
The China National Silk Museum is located beside West Lake, showcasing the history and craftsmanship of Chinese silk.
Hangzhou silk is renowned for its lightweight texture, elegant colors, and historical importance along the Maritime Silk Road.
Yue Opera
Originating in Shengzhou and flourishing in Hangzhou, Yue opera is one of China’s most popular traditional opera forms.
It is known for its lyrical singing, delicate performances, and romantic themes.
Inscribed on China’s National Intangible Cultural Heritage list in 2006, its classic productions include Butterfly Lovers and Dream of the Red Chamber.
Song-Dynasty Culture
As the former Southern Song capital of Lin’an, Hangzhou preserves a rich legacy of Song-dynasty culture.
Historic landmarks such as Southern Song Imperial Street and the Deshou Palace ruins reflect the architecture and lifestyle of the period.
Traditional cultural practices, including tea ceremonies, incense appreciation, flower arrangement, calligraphy, and painting, continue to influence the city’s cultural identity.
Hangzhou Spirit
Refined and harmonious defines the quality of Hangzhou’s culture, while open and magnanimous expresses the spirit of the city.
Together, these values reflect Hangzhou’s cultural refinement, inclusiveness, and openness to innovation.
- Famous tourist attractions
West Lake
West Lake is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of China’s most celebrated scenic destinations.
Its landscape features hills, pagodas, islands, causeways, and lakes, creating a harmonious combination of natural beauty and cultural heritage.
The famous Ten Scenes of West Lake include Spring Dawn at Su Causeway, Lingering Snow on Broken Bridge, and Leifeng Pagoda in Evening Glow.
Lingyin Temple
Founded in 326 AD during the Eastern Jin Dynasty, Lingyin Temple is one of China’s most historic Buddhist temples.
Surrounded by forested mountains, the temple is renowned for its traditional architecture and spiritual heritage.
The nearby Feilai Peak features ancient Buddhist grotto carvings and stone sculptures.
Thousand Island Lake
Thousand Island Lake is a scenic artificial lake formed after the construction of the Xin’an River Dam.
Named for its 1,078 islands, the lake is known for its clear waters, forested landscapes, and picturesque scenery.
It is a popular destination for sightseeing, boat tours, and nature-based recreation.
Songcheng Theme Park
Songcheng is a cultural theme park inspired by the architecture and traditions of the Southern Song Dynasty.
The park recreates the atmosphere of an ancient Chinese city through traditional buildings, cultural activities, and live performances.
Its signature production, Romance of the Song Dynasty, presents Hangzhou’s history and cultural heritage through music, dance, and theatrical performances.
Xixi National Wetland Park
Located approximately 5 kilometers from West Lake, Xixi National Wetland Park is China’s first national wetland park.
It combines urban, agricultural, and cultural wetland landscapes, featuring winding waterways, reed beds, and traditional villages.
Known as the Kidney of Hangzhou, the park provides a peaceful natural environment within the city.
Archaeological Ruins of Liangzhu City
The Archaeological Ruins of Liangzhu City were inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2019.
Dating back approximately 5,300–4,300 years, the site provides important archaeological evidence of early Chinese civilization.
Its ancient water management system, city structures, and jade ritual artifacts demonstrate the technological and cultural achievements of the Liangzhu civilization.
- Distinctive local cuisine
Dongpo Pork & Hangzhou’s Traditional Cuisine
Hangzhou cuisine is an important part of Zhejiang cuisine, one of China’s Eight Great Cuisines.
It is characterized by delicate flavors, fresh seasonal ingredients, and cooking techniques that emphasize the natural taste of food.
The city’s culinary traditions reflect the agricultural abundance of the Jiangnan region and the refined dining culture of the Southern Song Dynasty.
Dongpo pork, Hangzhou’s most famous dish, is traditionally associated with the Northern Song poet Su Shi.
Other celebrated local specialties include West Lake Fish in Vinegar Gravy, Longjing Shrimp, Beggar’s Chicken, and Pian’er Chuan Noodles.
Historic restaurants such as Lou Wai Lou, Zhi Wei Guan, and Kui Yuan Guan continue to preserve Hangzhou’s culinary heritage.
West Lake Fish in Vinegar Gravy
West Lake Fish in Vinegar Gravy is a traditional Hangzhou dish prepared with fresh grass carp.
The fish is carefully cooked and topped with a sweet-and-sour sauce, creating a delicate balance of flavors.
Its tender texture and subtle crab-like taste make it one of the signature dishes of Lou Wai Lou restaurant.
Longjing Shrimp
Longjing Shrimp combines fresh river shrimp with newly harvested Longjing green tea leaves.
The pearly-white shrimp and emerald-green tea leaves create an elegant presentation.
Its delicate aroma and refreshing flavor reflect the refined characteristics of traditional Hangzhou cuisine.
Beggar’s Chicken
Beggar’s Chicken is a traditional Jiangnan dish prepared by marinating a whole chicken with Shaoxing wine.
The chicken is wrapped in lotus leaves and clay before being slowly roasted.
When the clay shell is opened, the fragrance of lotus leaves and wine is released, revealing tender and flavorful chicken.
Pian'er Chuan Noodles
Pian'er Chuan is a traditional Hangzhou noodle dish topped with preserved vegetables, bamboo shoot slices, and lean pork. Its savory broth and smooth noodles make it a popular everyday meal. The dish is a signature specialty of Kui Yuan Guan restaurant.
Dongpo Pork
Dongpo Pork is one of Hangzhou's most famous traditional dishes, historically associated with the Northern Song poet Su Shi. The pork is slowly braised until tender, producing a rich flavor and a soft, melt-in-the-mouth texture. It is a representative dish of Hangzhou's culinary heritage.
- Urban transportation options
Hangzhou’s Integrated Transportation Network
Hangzhou has developed a comprehensive transportation network comprising metro, public buses, aviation, and high-speed rail.
As an important transportation hub in the Yangtze River Delta, the city provides convenient connections between its major urban districts, international airport, railway stations, and surrounding cities.
Metro
By the end of 2025, Hangzhou’s metro network operated 12 lines, excluding suburban lines, with a total operating length of 516 kilometers and more than 300 stations.
The network connects major urban districts and transportation hubs, including Hangzhou Xiaoshan International Airport, Hangzhou East Station, and Hangzhou West Station.
Annual metro ridership reached approximately 1.5 billion passenger trips in 2025.
Fares start at ¥2 and are calculated according to travel distance.
12 Lines / 516 km of Operating Metro Network
Aviation Hub
Hangzhou Xiaoshan International Airport is a major aviation hub in East China and Zhejiang Province’s primary international air gateway.
In 2024, the airport handled approximately 48.05 million passengers, representing a year-on-year increase of 16.7%.
Annual passenger traffic exceeded 50 million in 2025.
The airport serves 180 destinations, including 53 international and regional destinations.
Terminal 4 integrates metro, high-speed rail, and bus connections, providing convenient access to the city and surrounding regions.
Hangzhou Xiaoshan International Airport / International & Domestic Flights
Public Bus
By the end of 2025, Hangzhou operated 1,146 public transport routes with 8,838 buses, including minibuses.
The city’s public transportation system maintains passenger transport access to all administrative villages.
Public buses are closely integrated with the metro network and support mobile payment.
Together with shared bicycles, they provide convenient transportation options for residents and visitors.
1,146 Bus Routes / Extensive Citywide Coverage
High-Speed Rail
Hangzhou’s major railway hubs include Hangzhou East Station, Hangzhou Station, Hangzhou West Station, and Hangzhou South Station.
Hangzhou East Station is one of East China’s major high-speed railway hubs, connecting the Shanghai–Kunming, Nanjing–Hangzhou, Hangzhou–Ningbo, and Shangqiu–Hefei–Hangzhou railway lines.
High-speed rail services connect Hangzhou with Shanghai in approximately 45 minutes and Nanjing in approximately 2 hours.
The railway network provides convenient access to major destinations throughout the Yangtze River Delta and other regions of China.
Hangzhou East Railway Station / Direct High-Speed Rail Connections
Subway Travel Tips
Hangzhou’s metro network provides convenient transportation between major urban districts, railway stations, and Hangzhou Xiaoshan International Airport.
The network operates 12 lines covering 516 kilometers, with more than 300 stations across the metropolitan area.
Metro fares start at ¥2 and increase according to travel distance.
12
operating lines
300+
stations
516
kilometers of operating mileage
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