Visitors appreciate the beautiful scenery and fresh summer air as they ride on bamboo rafts in Hangzhou, Zhejiang province on Aug 4. [Photo/zjol.com.cn]

Hangzhou, capital of East China's Zhejiang province, was listed among the 2018-2019 top 10 best Chinese recreational cities, according to a report released in Beijing on Aug 5.

Jointly published by the National Academy of Economic Strategy of Chinese Academy of Social Sciences (CASS), Tourism Research Center of CASS, and Social Sciences Academic Press, the report evaluated 290 Chinese cities based on six criteria, including image and reputation, recreational environment, recreational economy and industries, recreational facilities and services, recreational consumption, and tourism attractions.

Shanghai, Sanya in South China's Hainan province, and Beijing made up the top three on the list, followed by Zhuhai, Shenzhen, Qingdao, Xiamen, Hangzhou, Xi'an and Lhasa.

The report shows that cities in eastern China perform better in terms of city image and recreational consumption than central and western regions, but lag behind in terms of recreational environment and space.

Providing a better and more spacious environment for urban residents and tourists is the key issue to be considered for cities in the east, the report says.

The report indicates that the eastern regions also stand out in terms of facilities, services, and recreational economy and industry.