Wu Hill (吴山) is a hill in the middle of the city, in between West Lake and Hefang street. It makes a beautiful green retreat from urban surroundings. The pavilion at the top is known as City God Pavillion (城隍阁). This seven stories structure is visible from almost any place in the city. Lit with lights against the night sky it makes a spectacular sight.
For those wondering what is the meaning of the "City God" is or who he might be, here is the answer: Hangzhou’s acting City God is a man named Zhou Xin (周新). He was a Judicial Commissioner of Zhejiang Province during Ming dynasty (明朝, 1403 - 1424). In ancient times citizens would choose patron saints from local administrators and heroes who had made significant contribution to the locals' well-being and the development of the city. Zhou Xin, despite his trustworthiness and incorruptibility, was betrayed, framed and executed by a rival politician. Following his death, he was declared as the City God of Hangzhou.
The pavilion is a without a doubt a breathtaking sight from the outside, but that is not all. Inside you can find miniature of Hangzhou City during the Souther Song Dynasty, numerous works of local art, wood carvings, and you can enjoy tea in one of the tea rooms. The view from the top is fantastic.
Wu Hill has been an inseparable part of the city for centuries, so it is hosts numerous important sites. Some of them are: Revolutionary Martyr Monument (浙江革命烈士紀念館), Stone Buddha Statues (石佛院), and Hangzhou Museum (杭州博物馆). However, for me personally, the most interesting part is in its foothills.
Hefang Street (read more) which is bordering Wu Hill from the north is a good place to end your visit to Wu Hill and have a snack. If you continue towards Gulou Church (鼓楼教堂)，The Drum Tower (鼓楼) and Wangxian Pavilion (望仙阁) you will reach the part of the city that is bordering the Wu Hill from the east. It is one of the oldest parts of Hangzhou City preserved in original state, with most of its oldest residents still living there. The knot of alleys around Zhongshan South Road (中山南路) can give you an insight what life in Hangzhou looked like half a century ago.
Explanation:
Light blue stars mark the places around Wu Hill mentioned above. There are many other places worth visiting, but this can give you an idea where to start.
I also added places where you can have lunch in the surrounding area or
a coffee and a cake.
In case you find this confusing, open the drop-down by clicking the symbol in the top left corner and uncheck what you do not want to see.
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