SpecialtiesofZhejiang

　　With a history dating back 900 years to the Song Dynasty, Jinhua ham was first offered in tribute to the imperial court. Its many varieties include smoked ham, wind-dried ham and ham made with thick soy sauce.

　　ZHEJIANG Province, located on China’s southeastern coast, has been known for centuries for its highly cultured people and civilized way of life. The period of June to September is the golden time to appreciate the poetic scenery in famous Zhejiang cities such as Hangzhou, Shaoxing, Jinhua and Ningbo. Visitors will also find Zhejiang a wonderful place to hunt for souvenirs. The following are some highlights.

　　Renowned for its high quality, pleasing flavor and color, Longjing tea takes its name from the area where it is grown. It takes roughly 36,000 tender leaves to make just half a kilogram of Longjing tea. The highest quality tea is processed by hand. This unique green tea brews into a clear, aromatic liquid that leaves a pleasant aftertaste.

　　Hangzhou hand-held fans have been made since the Song Dynasty when they were offered in tribute to the imperial court. The fans are mainly made from paper and silk with bamboo frames.

　　Hangzhou white chrysanthemums can be used in beverages and as a medicine. The fresh blossoms are first steamed and then dried. They can be used to reduce high blood pressure, combat migraines and help alleviate other ailments. Aside from these practical qualities, they make a restorative, sweet and fragrant tea.

　　At first glance, it’s hard to believe that the items crafted from Shengzhou bamboo aren’t actually made from fabric or other materials. They have a fluidity not normally associated with bamboo. In order to achieve this quality, the bamboo strips and sheets are carefully prepared so that they may be woven into various human figures, animals and everyday objects. With vivid imagery, harmonious colors, exquisite craftsmanship and an original style, these traditional handicrafts of Shengzhou City are both works of art and of practical use.

　　Shaoxing is the home of Chinese wine, and Shaoxing has been making wine for nearly 2,400 years. This light amber wine with its distinctive aroma and mellow flavor is generally produced from high quality glutinous rice and water from nearby Jianhu Lake. Huadiao, the oldest kind of Shaoxing wine, is considered to be of the highest standard.

　　Together with Anhui ink sticks, Xuancheng paper and Duanzhou ink stones, Huzhou writing brushes are one of the “four treasures of the studio” in China. Top-grade goat hair, rabbit hair or weasel hair are used to make the soft bristles.