Why is living in Hangzhou so poetic?

Active? Busy? Technologically-developed? Green? Peaceful? What word would you choose to describe your impression of Hangzhou? 

For Li Anna and her team from HTV3 (Channel Life) the word must be “poetic”.

Their choice came to life in a beautifully crafted short video titled Living Poetry. The video, which gracefully weaves together Hangzhou’s lush green landscapes, vibrant sports culture, and the quiet joy of daily life, won the Excellent Advanced Short Video Award at the Hangzhoufeel Creative Short Video Contest.

To discover what makes Hangzhou so poetic—and whose stories lie behind the lens—Hangzhoufeel interviewed Li Anna, the video’s planner and director, to learn more about the inspiration behind Living Poetry.

What does “Living Poetry” really mean to you? Why did your team choose the word “poetic” to describe life in Hangzhou?

Take the West Lake area, for example. Whether it’s the pavilions and towers, the historic sites, or even the stepping stones near Xiling Seal Society—if you look closely at the rock walls, you’ll often find poetic couplets and inscriptions etched into the stone. These traces of poetry are everywhere.
So when we talk about “living poetry”, it’s really about the way people enjoy life. Whether it’s a cup of tea, a simple meal, or the steady rhythm of daily steps—every little thing depends on how you see it. In Hangzhou, many people truly enjoy the way they lives. From that perspective, every ordinary day becomes a kind of letter to life—a poem written through living.
Why did you choose cycling to showcase the healthy lifestyle and vibrant spirit of Hangzhou?

Cycling felt like the perfect medium. First, the act of cycling itself naturally connects people, places, and stories. It’s a beautiful way to move through different scenes and narratives.
Second, Hangzhou is an incredibly bike-friendly city. During our research, we spoke with a number of cycling enthusiasts, and many pointed out how unique Hangzhou’s landscape is. Within a short ride, you can pass by a river, then a lake, and soon find yourself among hills or mountains. That kind of diverse terrain—right inside a city—is quite rare.
Of the four mini-stories filmed during the cycling journey, which one left the deepest impression on you—and why?

The story that really touched me the most was the group of seniors exercising by the Donghe River. During our interviews, their words were simple, but incredibly moving. When asked why they work out, some mentioned personal interest or a desire to stay healthy. But for many, it was about responsibility—to themselves and their families. They believed that maintaining a strong body was the foundation for being able to care for their loved ones.
We met two men in their 70s who were in incredible shape—fit, strong, and well-balanced. One of them said something that stayed with me:
"My mother is 95, and I want to stay healthy enough to take care of her for as long as I can."
It was such an ordinary sentiment, but so powerful. Their fitness routine wasn’t just a hobby—it was filled with quiet reflections about life, love, and responsibility. That’s what made their story so unforgettable.
Source: Hangzhoufeel