Hangzhou, the capital of Zhejiang Province, boasts a history that dates back over 2,200 years. Originally known as Qiantang, it became a major city during the Qin Dynasty. The city gained prominence during the Sui and Tang dynasties when the Grand Canal was constructed, connecting Hangzhou to Beijing, making it a critical hub for trade and culture. In the 13th century, during the Southern Song Dynasty, Hangzhou served as the imperial capital, attracting scholars, poets, and artists. The famed Italian traveler Marco Polo visited Hangzhou in the late 13th century, describing it as “the most beautiful and magnificent city in the world.”