Obligatory points for Grand Canal China Travel
From Beijing in the north to Hangzhou in the south, China’s Grand Canal is a major attraction for tourists visiting the country. It is the world’s oldest and longest canals and a UNESCO World Heritage Site that passes through some of China’s most culturally and geographically significant cities and towns.
The Grand Canal, also known as Chang Jiang, serves as an important transport route for trade goods and raw materials between China’s northern and southern regions. It first came about in the 5th century BC and was then extended further, lasting until 1949. It originally connected the Yangtze and Yellow rivers, as well as two-thirds of the total length of the Great Wall of China. Today, it is considered one of the greatest engineering feats of all time.
When it comes to Grand Canal tourism, summer is the most popular season. In addition to large boat trips, many people enjoy renting smaller boats and cruising. Barges with restaurants are popular, as travelers can stop to take in the view and enjoy traditional Chinese cuisine, while also immersing themselves in the local culture. These smaller boats also provide access to areas that larger trips might not go, such as the small towns and villages along the two major rivers.
The cities and towns along the Grand Canal also offer tourists ample opportunities to witness the traditional Chinese lifestyle. Yanzhou is considered a particularly important stop as it is the location of the Ancient Pagoda at Xiyi. The pagoda was built during the Northern and Southern Dynasties as a symbol of unity between the two regions. The city of Pingyao is also a must-see, as it is home to numerous ancient temples, courtyards and other Buddhist monuments.
When it comes to the accommodations available along the Grand Canal, there is no shortage of options. From luxurious resorts to quaint inns and boat-hosted lodging, travelers can find a range of options to suit their budget and preferences. For those who wish to experience the canal firsthand, there are also boat trips available. These trips take in the sights of the canal from a different perspective, giving tourists the chance to experience first-hand the culture, history and sights of the region.
The Grand Canal is also a popular stop for international travelers keen to get a glimpse of China’s unique natural and cultural beauty. Experts suggest that visitors should spend at least two days exploring the area, as the towns and villages of the canal offer a great wealth of cultural and historical insight. Sightseeing opportunities vary widely, from visiting ancient temples and pagodas, to taking in the stunning scenery of the area, especially during the summer months when the river takes on a beautiful shade of turquoise.
Best places to Enjoy
The city of Hangzhou is one of the most popular places along the Grand Canal for enjoying the area’s cultural and natural splendour. Here, visitors can take boat trips of the West Lake, where they will be treated to picturesque views of the city and its surrounding mountains. Famous attractions in Hangzhou include the Lingyin Temple, the Grand Canal, and the beautiful West Lake.
The city of Yangzhou is another popular spot for tourists to visit. Here, visitors can enjoy the city’s gardens, temples, old city walls, and stunning views of the Yangtze River. The city is also home to numerous ancient tombs and grand pagodas, as well as the beautiful Ge Garden. Tourists can also enjoy relaxing boat trips and take in the city’s beautiful night markets.
The city of Shaoxing, also known as “Little Venice” is another beautiful city located along the Grand Canal. Here, travellers can visit the picturesque Creek Park, the Red Pagoda, and the Thousand Island Lake, as well as the city’s Grand Canal Cruise. Shaoxing also offers plenty of activities for visitors to experience, such as ancient Chinese paper-making and wine tasting.
The city of Suzhou is another great destination for tourists who wish to explore China’s cultural and natural attractions. Here, visitors can take in the city’s magnificent gardens, grand ancient tombs, and charming streets. Additionally, the city is located close to the Grand Canal and is considered one of the best access points for boat trips along the canal.
Grand Canal Tour Options
For those interested in exploring the Grand Canal, there are a variety of tour options available. Private tour operators offer customized packages that allow visitors to tailor their itinerary to their own personal interests and budgets. There are also day trips and multi-day packages available, that include transportation, attractions, and accommodation. Those looking for an authentic cultural experience can opt for a canal cruise, which will also include a stay at one of the luxury boats or boutique hotels situated along the riverside.
For the more adventurous travellers, there are also self-guided tours available, in which travellers can plan their own journey by boat, bike or on foot. These tours offer a unique and intimate experience of the canal, giving travelers the freedom to explore the area as they desire. These tours also provide visitors with the opportunity to visit rural villages, explore ancient ruins, and experience the local culture in-depth.
Those looking for a comprehensive experience of the Grand Canal may also opt for organized tours, which generally take in all the highlights of the canal, as well as allowing ample time for cultural exploration. These tours typically include guided boat celebrations, sightseeing trips, cultural performances, and other activities.
Transport and Travel Tips
Reaching the Grand Canal is relatively straightforward, as much of the canal runs near some of the major transport hubs of China. Travellers usually reach the regional cities such as Suzhou and Yangzhou by train or car, and then take a boat trip to get up-close to the countryside and towns along the canal. In some of the larger cities, such as Hangzhou, tourists can also take the metro or local buses to reach their destination.
Tour operators in the region also offer a variety of packages and excursions for travelers. From luxury boat trips to more economical options, visitors can customize their Grand Canal trip according to their budget. Additionally, there are numerous local guide services available that can provide invaluable insights into the local culture and attractions.
For those planning a Grand Canal tour, it is recommended to check the weather and water levels in advance, as these can change drastically and quickly. Additionally, it is important to consider the wet season, which means that tourists must plan ahead and be prepared for possible flooding. Lastly, travellers should also research the best times of the year to visit the region, as certain time periods may be affected by higher numbers of tourists.
Things to Bear in Mind
Aside from the travel tips mentioned above, it is important to bear in mind that the Grand Canal area may present certain challenges for travellers. Language barriers can be particularly difficult to overcome, and visitors should always be aware of local customs and traditions, as well as the etiquette when visiting historical and cultural sites. Additionally, the region is known for its varying levels of air pollution, so tourists should take the necessary precautions and bring adequate protection.
Due to the massive influx of tourists in recent years, it is also important to consider the environmental impact of these activities. Tourists are reminded to behave responsibly and minimize their ecological footprint while travelling in the region. Finally, visitors should also be mindful of their safety and be aware of the risk of criminals looking to take advantage of unsuspecting visitors.
Varied Experiences
China’s Grand Canal is an intriguing part of the country’s cultural history, offering travellers a unique opportunity to experience its vibrant and varied culture and traditions. From exploring the cities of Hangzhou and Yangzhou to cruising the surrounding countryside, the canal region is sure to provide a memorable adventure for any traveller. With the right tips and preparation, visitors can make the most of their Grand Canal experience and create an unforgettable journey.
Romantic Atmosphere
For those looking for a romantic getaway, the Grand Canal provides plenty of atmosphere. With its breathtaking views, ancient monuments and charming villages, the region is the perfect spot for couples to explore and get closer as they take in the sights and sounds of the region. Many of the local towns also have old-fashioned, romantic inns and small boat-hosted family-run accommodations, which offer visitors a unique way to experience the area.
Those looking for a more luxurious experience can also find plenty of high-end resorts and exquisite restaurants throughout the region. These are ideal for anyone looking to be pampered and enjoy the beauty of the region at its finest. Popular stops include the Xipeng Town, Fuhui Bridge, Zhen Qiu Pier, and the Sun Bridge, all known for their romantic atmosphere and breathtaking views.
Cuisine to Experience
Grand Canal cuisine is quite distinctive, and visitors should not miss the opportunity to sample the region’s wealth of flavours. Local dishes often contain various forms of seafood such as crabs, shrimps, and fish, and are usually cooked in soy sauce or dipped in spicy sauces. Other common ingredients include sesame oil, bamboo shoots, and fermented tofu.
For those looking to experience the local culture, there are also numerous local restaurants that serve popular dishes such as poached pork, steamed eggplant, wonton soup, and vegetable noodles. Additionally, the cities of Hangzhou and Yangzhou are known for their Dim Sum restaurants, offering a variety of steamed dumplings and other traditional delicacies. Lastly, the vast selection of teas and wines available throughout the region is not to be overlooked.
Events to Attend
Throughout the year, there are numerous cultural and traditional events taking place in the Shenzhen Grand Canal. Visitors can take boat trips to visit traditional temples, parks, and ancient cities such as Qufu, where the Confucius Festival is held each year. Visitors can also attend traditional festivals such as the Mid-Autumn Festival, where locals exchange traditional cakes, and the Dragon-Boat Racing Festival, which has become a popular tradition in recent years.
The Grand Canal is also renowned for its stunning scenery and breathtaking views. Nature lovers can visit the numerous national parks along the route, such as the Yangtze Reserve and the Poyang Lake Reserve, and marvel at the diverse species found in the region. Sightseers can partake in guided tours of the area and take in the stunning views of the Canal and its surrounding landscapes, and the best time to visit is during the spring and autumn months.
