Hangzhou Bay is a bay situated in the eastern coast of China. The spelling of Hangzhou Bay is pronounced as /ˈhæŋ.ʒoʊ ˈbeɪ/ in International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA). The first part, Hangzhou, is pronounced with a voiced velar fricative sound followed by a schwa sound. The second part, bay, is pronounced with a diphthong sound, transitioning from a low front vowel to a high front vowel. Hangzhou Bay is an important economic and transportation hub, connecting several provinces and cities in China.
Hangzhou Bay is a large body of water situated on the eastern coast of China, specifically in the Zhejiang province. It is an inlet that extends into the East China Sea and is known for its strategic importance in navigation, transportation, and tourism.
This bay covers an extensive area, occupying approximately 9,000 square kilometers. It is bordered by several important cities, including Hangzhou to the southwest, Shanghai to the north, and Ningbo to the southeast. The bay serves as a vital gateway connecting the Yangtze River Delta region, which is a major economic hub in China.
Hangzhou Bay is characterized by its wide expanse, shallow depths, and numerous islands scattered throughout its waters. The bay's coastline is relatively flat, encompassing vast sandy beaches and mudflats. It is also known for its strong tidal currents, which are influenced by the pull of the moon and the sun.
Due to its strategic location, Hangzhou Bay has played a significant role in trade and transportation. The construction of the Hangzhou Bay Bridge, one of the longest sea-crossing bridges globally, further enhanced connectivity and facilitated the movement of goods and people across the bay. Additionally, the bay's scenic beauty, with its beautiful islands and picturesque landscape, has made it a popular tourist destination.
Overall, Hangzhou Bay is a prominent geographical feature in eastern China that serves as a vital waterway, connecting major cities, fostering economic activities, and attracting visitors with its natural charm.
The etymology of the word "Hangzhou Bay" is derived from the combination of two geographical elements: Hangzhou and Bay.
The term "Hangzhou" refers to a city located in the Zhejiang Province of eastern China. Hangzhou is one of the Seven Ancient Capitals of China and has a long history dating back over 2,200 years. The name "Hangzhou" itself can be broken down into two Chinese characters: "Hang" (杭) and "Zhou" (州). "Hang" is believed to be the ancient name of the Qiantang River that flows through the city, while "Zhou" refers to a prefectural-level division within the administrative system of ancient China.
The term "Bay" simply refers to a body of water partially enclosed by land, larger than a cove but smaller than a gulf.