A miniature Eiffel Tower may remind you of a recent visit to Paris. Memories of a tour in hutongs in Beijing may be brought back by a cloisonné bracelet bought there.

Imagine you’re on a visit to Hangzhou—what would be your choice of a symbolic souvenir of the city?

Hangzhou is a city with a long history and a rich cultural heritage. Well known for the picturesque West Lake, it has become a hot destination. Dragonwell tea, silk scarves and paper fans used to be popular at the souvenir markets.

However, in recent years, opinions are being voiced from both visitors and citizens that there should be more choices of functional, meaningful and aesthetically beautiful souvenirs at the markets. There are also debates among Hangzhou citizens on what souvenirs most symbolize Hangzhou.

In order to find the souvenirs that best represent Hangzhou, the city has launched the Tiangong Art Gallery Hangzhou City Souvenir International Design Competition. The competition is jointly hosted by the Hangzhou Brand Promotion Office, Hangzhou Economic Committee, Hangzhou Tourism Committee, Hangzhou Newspaper Group, Hangzhou Culture Radio Television Group and Hangzhou Tiangong Art Studio.

Design submissions are kicking off today and will be accepted until Dec 30, 2009. Three gold prize winners, five silver prize winners and nine bronze prize winners will be selected, with prize money totaling as high as 1,000,000 yuan. Each gold prize winner will receive 100,000 yuan, 5,000 yuan will go to each silver prize winner and 2,000 yuan to each bronze prize recipient. The winning designs will be manufactured.

Entries should embody elements that reflect Hangzhou both as a modern city and a traditional ancient capital. Whether the design reflects the spirit of Hangzhou’s brand of quality city or the spirit of Hangzhou citizens are also important factors for consideration. Gift and souvenir designs which bear the symbol of Hangzhou are also welcome.

The designs can be used for commercial, corporate or political purposes.

All individuals and organizations are welcome to enter. Please visit www.cityhz.com or www.1hangzhou.com to download an invitation and application form. Entry submission ...

By Li Hui