The launch ceremony for the books. [Photo/hangzhou2022.cn]

Hangzhou Publishing House and Foreign Languages Press recently held a launch ceremony for two books, 108 Stories of Hangzhou and This Is Hangzhou.

Last September, the Hangzhou Outstanding Traditional Culture Series, featuring a collection of 108 books, was immensely popular among readers.

To offer a quick and comprehensive glimpse into Hangzhou's culture for readers around the world, 108 Stories of Hangzhou compiles 108 of the most vivid and representative stories from among thousands found in the108 books.

The same editorial team also curated an exploration of Hangzhou culture for international outreach titled This Is Hangzhou, which features 42 representative stories categorized into six sections: City History, Landscapes, Art, Cuisine, Craftsmanship, and Spirit.

Leading the translation team for the English version This Is Hangzhou is David Janke, a translator from the United Kingdom. "Through storytelling, This Is Hangzhou brilliantly connects Hangzhou's past myths with its current natural and cultural phenomena. This is what foreign readers find intriguing about Chinese stories," Janke shared.

Janke expressed his desire to be a guide for readers, introducing international audiences to Hangzhou's warm hospitality, delicious local cuisine, and many unique facets. "This is not just a book; it's an invitation!" he exclaimed.