The Beijing-Hangzhou Grand Canal is the oldest and longest artificial canal in the world. It spans a remarkable 1,794 kilometers (1,115 miles) and boasts a rich history of over 2,500 years. Grand Canal stretches all the way from Beijing in the north to Hangzhou in the south. It is passing Tianjin, Hebei Province, Shandong Province, Jiangsu Province, and Zhejiang Province, leaving a trail of wonder in its wake.
UNESCO World Heritage Site
In 2014, the Beijing-Hangzhou Grand Canal was rightfully recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It became the second UNESCO World Heritage Site in the city together with charming West Lake and the captivating Archaeological Ruins of Liangzhu City.
Grand Canal connects five mighty rivers – the Haihe, Yellow River, Huaihe River, Yangtze River, and the Qaintang River. Thus the Canal played a vital role as a crucial transportation route for centuries. It served as a lifeline for the transfer of food and goods from the south to the north. And of course it fueled the growth of commerce and fostering development throughout the country. Even today, the section from Suzhou to Hangzhou remains active. Vendors skillfully navigate their boats and bringing their wares directly to households and shops in local townships.
Enjoy your boat trip along Grand Canal
The boat trips along the Grand Canal in Hangzhou offer a delightful experience for visitors, providing an amazing view of China’s picturesque waterside villages, arched stone bridges, and charming ancient riverside buildings.
When it comes to boating on the Grand Canal in Hangzhou, you have two delightful options to choose from. The first is to hop aboard the affordable water service bus, priced at just RMB 3-5. This convenient mode of transportation starts its journey at Wulinmen Pier and finishes at Hongchenqiao Pier, operating every other hour from 7:30 am to 8:30 pm.
For a truly magical experience, try a night cruise along the canal. The route takes you from Wulinmen Dock to West Lake Cultural Plaza, Imperial Dock, Fuyi Granary, Qianlongfang, Dadou Road, Xiaohezhi Street, Qiaoxizhi Street, Gongchen Bridge, and finally back to Wulinmen Pier, completing a beautiful round trip spanning 12 kilometers. The night cruise departs at 7:30 pm and its price is RMB 100 per person.
Allow yourself to be captivated by the grandeur of the magnificent Beijing-Hangzhou Grand Canal and the breathtaking sights it has to offer. Embark on a journey of wonder and create memories that will last a lifetime.
