Beginning as a crystal-clear trickle in the forest, a river flows from southwest to northeast and grows into the mighty Qiantang River. It then heads east to the sea, waves slowly bidding farewell to the hills, trees, and the hustle and bustle along the way. But it is not an eternal departure. The water will reappear on a lotus leaf or in the rain of the West Lake, or even in a porcelain bowl of tea.

Such first meetings and reencounters with water occur time and again in every corner of Zhejiang. Each happening bursts with vitality, ever enriching and bringing fertility to this land.

The vast, pure and spiritual water of Zhejiang even sparked off the joy of a kingdom and gave birth to Liangzhu Culture, the earliest state-society founded here more than 5,000 years ago.

The water is a painting of the growth of all living things.