A unique culture of China, Traditional Chinese medicine is of long standing and has always been one of China's highlights. With a history of over 5000 years, Traditional Chinese Medicine has evolved into a broad range of medicinal practices that are sophisticated, intertwined and profound. TCM is manifested in various forms, herbal medicine, acupuncture, massage (Tui Na), breath control exercises (Qi Gong) and dietary therapy. The core essence of TCM is about harmony: harmony of the internal and external, body and mind, and man and nature.
Hangzhou, one of the Eight Ancient Capitals of China, boasts a rich culture of Traditional Chinese Medicine.
Hu Qing Yu Tang (胡庆余堂)
Hu Qing Yu Tang is located on Hefang Street at the foot of Wu Hill, near West Lake. It was founded in 1874 by the famous businessman Hu Xueyan (胡雪岩) and opened to the public in 1878. As a historically significant traditional medicine store, HQYT has an essential part in presenting the essence of Traditional Chinese medical science and technology. In addition to the essence of Traditional Chinese medicine, HQYT also presents a style of antique architecture.
Address: No.95, Dajing Alley, Shangcheng District, Hangzhou
Tel: 86-571-87027507
Fang Hui Chun Tang (方回春堂)
As one of China's time-honored brands, Fang Hui Chun Tang is a traditional medicine store founded in 1649. Located opposite Gongchen Bridge (拱宸桥), Fang Hui Chun Tang epitomizes one of Hefang Street's (河坊街) specialties - health. Fang Hui Chun Tang also features elegant woodcarvings, vintage electric fans and crimson old-style wood stairs and pillars which are worth visiting.
Address: No.117, Hefang Street, Shangcheng District, Hangzhou
Tel: 86-571-87808117
Taijiquan(太极拳)
Taijiquan is more than the Taiji gymnastics we see in the squares or parks performed by large groups in the morning. Nourished by the profound and rich traditional Chinese culture, it has evolved into a symbol of philosophy and wisdom in its essential part. That is why those who ignore the spiritual content of Taijiquan fail to seize its core in despite of lifelong practice.
The aim of Taijiquan is not to win or to attack others, but defense and self improvement. Slow motion, yielding to exterior forces and countering it by softness as well as letting the rivals defeat themselves are some of its distinctive features. One short-cut to learn Taijiquan is to try catching the essence of traditional Chinese culture embodied by Confucianism, Daoism and Buddhism, to grasp the truth and meaning of life and to cultivate a pure and harmonious inner world. It is an art of coordination between human and nature, body and soul, and thus is not suitable for those who are ambitious and aggressive. The moment you realize this point, you are entering the doorway of Taiji's mysterious kingdom.