A bird's-eye view of West Lake, a cultural landmark of Hangzhou and one of the three UNESCO Heritage sites in the city. [Photo/tidenews.com.cn]

Hangzhou, capital of East China's Zhejiang province, is once again in the spotlight in 2025 — leading the way in the fields of the digital economy, cultural innovation and in global influence.

But beyond its economic strength lies a deeper force: Two decades of consistent cultural development.

Since Zhejiang launched its cultural development initiative 20 years ago, Hangzhou has cultivated a unique urban character that blends heritage with innovation.

The city is now home to three UNESCO World Heritage sites — West Lake, the Grand Canal and the Archaeological Ruins of Liangzhu City — each shaping its identity through harmony with nature, openness and creativity.

Hangzhou's cultural industries have also flourished. From hosting China's first International Cartoon and Animation Festival in 2005, to becoming a hub for digital culture, the city's annual cultural output in 2024 topped 340 billion yuan ($47.25 billion), accounting for 15.8 percent of its GDP.

The annual China International Cartoon and Animation Festival is a cultural calling card of Hangzhou. [Photo/tidenews.com.cn]

Moreover, digital technologies are transforming traditional storytelling. From the globally anticipated blockbuster game Black Myth: Wukong to AI-powered animation platforms, Hangzhou is redefining the fusion of culture and tech.

Historic landmarks like the Southern Song Imperial Palace now offer AR experiences, while smart museums and digital exhibitions bring ancient artifacts to life.

With deep cultural roots and a thriving digital economy, Hangzhou continues to grow as a global creative capital — where tradition inspires innovation and the past powers the future.

The Destined One, the main character of the Hangzhou-created hit AAA game Black Myth: Wukong. [Photo/tidenews.com.cn]