Twenty-seven towns and villages in Hangzhou, Zhejiang province were selected as the first batch of pilot towns for the city's "Beautiful Village" project, according to a report issued on April 9.

Hangzhou is expected to have over 10 provincial-level beautiful towns and villages by 2020.

The beautiful villages will be measured according to six indicators – ecological environment, transportation, industrial development, quality of life, historical preservation, and social governance – and will highlight the unique features of Hangzhou, said a local official.

According to the report, Hangzhou will strive to build a number of provincial demonstration towns according to local needs and sustainable development.

The project is part of the city's efforts to improve the rural living environment, implement a rural vitalization strategy, and advance the integrated development of urban and rural areas.