b'HANGZHOUHANGHangzhou is a city of 9.8million people and lies at the southern endZHOUof the Grand Canal. It is one of Chinas most visited cities, famous for the renowned West Lake, historic districts and more than 50 museums. It is one of Chinas most dynamic business and financial centres and houses the headquarters of Alibaba, Geely, Zhonga Group and many others. It is sometimes referred to as Chinas Silicone Valley.The importance of Hangzhou to the trade and culture of China was established by 609AD, when the southern gateway to the Grand Canal was completed. By 1115AD, the population had boomed and growth extended beyond the city walls. This growth continued over the centuries and by the early 20th century, Hangzhou was an important trading centre, connected to the north of China by the Grand Canal and to the south of China and the rest of the world through sea-lanes.115P4-20200301-INTERNATIONAL STUDIO.indd 18 2020/3/3 20:15:39'