An aerial view of the bridge designed especially for cyclists to cross Qiandao Lake in Chun'an county, Hangzhou. As the first suspension bridge in China for cyclists, the 168-meter-long structure has been spruced up with colorful decorations to create a more scenic cycling route. [Photo/CFP]

In 2017, the system won the International Ashden Awards for Sustainable Travel.

"The scale and efficiency of this public bike sharing scheme – a vital component of Hangzhou's well-run integrated transport system – is like nothing we have seen elsewhere, dwarfing both London and Paris in scale. They are making cycling part of everyday life," said the 2017 Ashden Awards Judging Panel.

In addition to the bike sharing system, the city is speeding up its infrastructure construction for cycling enthusiasts.

The slow-moving system of Hangzhou contributes to the "bicycle fever" in the city, as the construction of greenways plays an important role. Most greenways in Hangzhou are built along rivers, allowing riders to cycle amid pleasant scenery.

Cycling tracks outside the main urban area of Hangzhou have also gained widespread popularity. Thethe Chun'an-Kaihua Highway (Chun'an section), with a 200-km-long cycling track encircling Qiandao Lake, was honored as one of the most beautiful countryside roads in China.