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Take a relaxing boat ride along the Grand Canal, explore the ancient bridges, and walk through the scenic paths. Visit historical sites like the Slender West Lake nearby, and enjoy the traditional culture and architecture along the canal.
The Yangzhou Ancient Grand Canal is the oldest section of the canal. The canal currently within Yangzhou largely mirrors the route of the ancient Han Canal, dating back over 2,000 years, and is identical to the canal dug by Emperor Yang of Sui. It stretches 125 kilometers from Guazhou to Baoying .
The Yangzhou section of the ancient canal, stretching approximately 30 kilometers from Guazhou to Wantou , forms the famous " Three Bays of Yangzhou . " This section of the canal is the oldest and boasts numerous historical sites and cultural attractions.
The ancient Yangzhou Grand Canal has clear water and passes through the city. There are many historical sites along the coast. Starting from the entrance of the Yangtze River, there are the ancient Guazhou Ferry, the nationally famous Gaomin Temple, the Yangzijin ferry crossing on the Maritime Silk Road in the prosperous Tang Dynasty, the Pagoda Bay of Jianzhen's East Ferry Wharf, the Islamic religious site Puhadin's Tomb, and Zhuyu Bay, the watershed between the old and new canals.
Suitable for all seasons, best for night cruises
Recommended play time: 1-2 hours
Free canal tours
One-way boat trip: 60 yuan / person, round trip: 80 yuan/person
The canal is open all day
Cruise operating hours: 14:00-21:00
The Yangzhou Ancient Grand Canal is a UNESCO World Heritage site and an integral part of China’s ancient waterway system. It has been a vital trade route for centuries, connecting the north and south of China. Yangzhou, known for its cultural heritage, is a significant historical city along the canal.
Yangzhou is located in Jiangsu Province. The Ancient Grand Canal runs through the city. It is accessible by taxi, bus, or walking, with well-marked paths and transportation links around the canal.
The Grand Canal area is accessible year-round. Best times to visit are spring and autumn for pleasant weather. The canal is open for exploration throughout the day, with boat rides typically available from 9 AM to 5 PM.
The entrance fee for the Grand Canal area varies, with boat rides costing around 60-100 RMB. Tickets can be purchased at the site or online via local tourism websites.
Booking tickets in advance is recommended during peak tourist seasons (spring and autumn). A few days ahead is ideal, especially for boat tours.
Exploring the canal area takes about 2-3 hours. If you plan to visit nearby attractions like Slender West Lake, allocate more time.
Key highlights include the ancient canal itself, historical bridges, the Yangzhou Canal Museum, and the Slender West Lake, which offers picturesque views along the water.
Guided tours are available in Chinese and English. Audio guides can be rented at the canal for self-guided tours, typically in Chinese.
The best photography spots include the traditional bridges over the canal, the boat docks, and the historical buildings along the waterway. Early morning or late afternoon offers the best light for photos.
Start by walking along the canal, then take a boat ride to explore the length of the canal. Afterward, visit the nearby Slender West Lake and explore the historical gardens and temples.
Night visits and light shows are available during certain seasons. The canal is beautifully lit at night, and special boat tours may be available during festivals.
The canal area can get crowded during weekends and holidays, especially in spring and autumn. The least crowded times are weekday mornings or off-peak seasons like winter.
There are public toilets, rest areas, and a few food stalls along the canal. For a better selection of restaurants and shops, explore the city center near the canal.
The canal area is accessible to elderly and children, with paved walkways and boat rides that are easy to board. However, some older bridges may have steps, which could be challenging for those with mobility issues.
Mobile payments (WeChat Pay, Alipay) are widely accepted, and cards are usually accepted at major locations. Cash is less commonly needed but can be useful for smaller vendors.
There are a few small restaurants and cafes near the canal offering local Chinese cuisine. For a wider selection, head to the city center where you can find both local and international options.
Vegetarian food options are available, and some restaurants may offer vegan dishes. Halal food options are limited but can be found in certain areas of the city.
There are several hotels near the Grand Canal, ranging from budget to mid-range. For a more luxurious stay, consider hotels in the city center, which are just a short distance away from the canal.
Nearby attractions include Slender West Lake, the Yangzhou Museum, and Ge Garden. These landmarks are within walking distance or a short drive from the canal, making them ideal for a combined day trip.
There are several souvenir shops near the canal, offering traditional Chinese crafts, silk products, local snacks, and canal-themed memorabilia.
After visiting, taxis, buses, and ride-sharing services like Didi are available to continue your journey. The Yangzhou train station is also nearby for further travel.
