Ningbo (宁波), Zhejiang Province, unlike neighbouring Hangzhou (杭州) and Shanghai (上海) to the north, is a quiet city by comparison. Ningbo is a welcome respite to the traveller who seeks some peaceful time out in a clean and attractive environment. The city is just a short trip from the hustle and bustle of Shanghai and the heavy tourism of Hangzhou. Any traveler to China who finds time to visit Hangzhou and the beautiful West Lake (西湖), should also be sure to spend a few days enjoying Ningbo and its proud culture.