Hangzhou a rich garden of water and wonder

While its neighbor Shanghai steps up preparations for the World Expo next year, Hangzhou is poised to use its proximity and reputation as the "back garden" of the bustling commercial hub to attract more tourists.

Long famed as a popular tourist destination due to its luxuriant foliage and rich cultural heritage, the capital of East China's Zhejiang province has designated this year as Hangzhou Tourism Friendship Year.

With the theme of "touring Hangzhou and sharing a quality life", tourism officials have unveiled a new list of scenic spots to enhance its appeal.