The district lies beside Hangzhou's famous West Lake and includes the territory of the former imperial Chinese cities of Qiantang and Lin'an, the imperial capital of the Song dynasty from 1138 to 1276.

The district hosts the headquarters of military region in the province and is also known for its prison[which?]

where political prisoners such as Zhu Yufu are incarcerated.

Some prominent schools are located nearby, including China Academy of Art, Hangzhou Second High School, and Hangzhou Fourth High School.

Subdistricts:[1] The local people believe in Buddhism, Taoism, Catholicism and Protestantism.