Every weekend students will have the opportunity to explore a different city or a famous resort outside Shanghai. In 2010, we invite you to visit three capitals and two most famous water townships in Chinese history. Well, let's start with a quick look from here...
Nanjing
Nanjing has always been one of China’s most prominent cities in history and culture. It was the capital of China for six dynasties, and of the Republic of China. Nanjing has also served as a national hub of education, research, transportation and tourism throughout history. As a popular tourist destination, Nanjing is often cited as having a unique charm: with a vast number of historical sights, memorials, museums, cultural sights and pleasant natural surroundings perfectly blending together, the ancient city enchants millions of tourists every year with a memorable experience.
Hangzhou
Hangzhou is one of the most important tourism cities in China, famous for its natural beauty, historical and cultural heritages and modern charm. Both the history and present bear witnesses to the charms of the city. The city was the capital of the Southern Song Dynasty during which time the city's population is estimated to have been as high as one million, making it the largest city in the world. Even Marco Polo, the Italian traveler in the 13th century, gave the highest praise for Hangzhou during his travel in China and applauded it as "beyond dispute the finest and the noblest city in the world". A Chinese saying also has high praise for Hangzhou as "the paradise on earth".
Suzhou
Suzhou, the cradle of Wu culture dominating Yangtze Basin, is one of the oldest cities in southern China and has been traditonally the capital of Wu nations. As early as 2500 years ago, "Great City of Helu", the ancient name for Suzhou was established as the capital of Wu Kingdom during the Spring and Autumn Period in Chinese history. The city is renowned for its beautiful stone bridges, pagodas, and meticulously designed gardens which have contributed to its status as a great tourist attraction. As Chinese saying says"Paradise above, Suzhou and Hangzhou below."
Zhouzhuang
Zhouzhuang is a popular tourist destination. It is the most famous water town in China, noted for its profound cultural background, the well preserved ancient residential houses, the elegant watery views and the strong local colored traditions and customs. It has been nicknamed the "Venice of the East".
Qibao
Qibao is the epitome of old Shanghai. As the only ancient town forming part of greater Shanghai, with a history spanning over one thousand years, Qibao is more than just a living fossil of ancient Chinese conurbation and urban planning. The town was built in Northern Song Dynasty (960-1126) and grew into a prosperous business center during Ming (1368-1644).
