The account associated with Marco Polo helped make Hangzhou famous far beyond China.
Quinsai in a traveller’s account
The city described as Quinsai in Marco Polo’s account is identified with Hangzhou. The account celebrates urban wealth, commerce and the scale of city life. Historical travel writing offers a perspective shaped by its author and transmission, rather than a modern statistical record.
A remembered visitor
A statue of Marco Polo near West Lake commemorates the traveller’s association with Hangzhou.
A lasting connection
Hangzhou’s appeal to international visitors is also part of the story behind Leif Almö’s song. Listen to the Hangzhou song and explore the city’s history for different perspectives on its appeal.
