Follow Jack Klumpp as he explores Southern Song Dynasty cultural elements in Hangzhou, Zhejiang province. [Video/China Matters]

When Marco Polo came to Hangzhou hundreds of years ago, he said that the capital of East China's Zhejiang province was the most magnificent city he had ever seen. This remark aroused the interest of Jack Klumpp, a foreign anchor of China Matters, to see what makes the city so special.

Klumpp's Italian friend Rachele Longhi, who has been residing in Hangzhou for many years, joined Klumpp on his journey. During their trip, the duo donned traditional Chinese hanfu and took a stroll along Hefang Street and Imperial Street, which are respectively known as the commercial center and royal boulevard during the Southern Song Dynasty (1127-1279). Today, the two locations are must-visit scenic spots for tourists to experience ancient culture.

As the capital of the Southern Song Dynasty, Hangzhou is known for its profound culture. Follow Klumpp and Longhi to explore the stories behind the time-honored shops on the two streets.