A national research institute on the recreational economy was set up Wednesday in Hangzhou, capital of east China's Zhejiang Province.

In a related activity, a major recreational park is under construction in the city covering an area of 2,500 mu (167 hectares). The project, which started Tuesday, involves investment of two billion yuan (about US$240 million).

As a world-famous tourist destination, Hangzhou is making efforts to become a recreational center for domestic and overseas tourists during the city's Tenth Five-Year Plan Period (2001-2005).

In recent years, a number of non-governmental enterprises in the city have put large investments into building numerous parks and exposition centers highlighting recreational activities, cultural tours and various entertainment programs.

A local tourism official said that the city government of Hangzhou has made comprehensive preparations to bid for hosting 2004 World Recreational Exposition and other international events.

( November 15, 2001)