Huang Yaqiong (L) and Zheng Siwei, world-renowned badminton mixed doubles players, triumph at the 2024 BWF World Tour Finals in Hangzhou. [Photo/WeChat account: hzfbwx]

For the 18th consecutive year, Hangzhou – capital of East China's Zhejiang province – has been named as one of China's "Happiest Cities", with its Gongshu, Lin'an and Fuyang districts making it onto the "Happiest Districts" list.

According to the survey, Hangzhou leads in income, quality of life and city appeal.

Over 18 years, it has grown into a megacity with a thriving economy, rising population and along the way earned itself such accolades as being called a "Digital City" and an "Asian Games City".

Moreover, throughout 2024, Hangzhou hosted 28 international sports events and 107 concerts, boosting tourism by 12 billion yuan ($1.64 billion) and further strengthening its role as a global events hub.

Hangzhou's digital economy leader status was boosted by successes like blockbuster hit online game Black Myth: Wukong – showcasing its innovation, alongside leadership in cloud computing and robotics.

It has also rolled out youth-friendly policies, represented by the "Spring Rain Plan" which supports young talent with housing, jobs and financial aid.

A man uses a bionic hand developed by Hangzhou-based BrainCo to hold a cup. [Photo/WeChat account: hzfbwx]