The coffee chain sees China becoming its second-largest market outside the United States.

But it's not all about the economy and trade many members of the local Chinese community are excited about Hu's visit. They, along with members of other friendly organizations, are scheduled to hear Hu's speech today at a special luncheon at Boeing Company.

Gary Locke, former Chinese-American governor of Washington state who chairs the planning committee for Hu's visit told Xinhua News Agency that the US-Chinese relationship is stronger and better than ever before.

Louis Liu, a local tour guide, said on Monday that many local Chinese-Americans started preparations weeks ago; some practising drum or dragon dances as part of the welcome ceremony.

Seattle's links to China go back to the 1860s, when the first Chinese immigrants arrived here.

Shawn Wong, Professor of English and Director of the University Honors Program at University of Washington, told the Seattle Times that Chinese Americans see a different China today from the one viewed by their forefathers.

In an email to China Daily, Wong said: "Today's China is growing so fast and has such an impact on the world whether we're Chinese American or not, we need to be engaged and look to the opportunities between China and the United States."