Shaobo Ancient Dike

Introducing Shaobo Ancient Dike

The Shaobo Ancient Dike is a section of the ancient canal embankment located on the east bank of the canal's former course, west of Gantang Community in Shaobo Town, Jiangdu District. Built during the Song Dynasty, it prevented the escape of Shaobo Lake and maintained the canal's water level. Originally designed to "drain excess and prevent insufficiency," the canal embankment's primary function was simply to maintain the canal's water level.

After the Ming Dynasty, the canal became the channel for the Huaihe River to flow into the Yangtze River. The riverbed silted up and rose year by year, and the canal gradually became a hanging river, posing a huge threat to the low-lying Lixiahe area east of the canal. This section of the embankment was continuously raised and reinforced as a flood control barrier.

The construction of the Shaobo Ancient Dike separated the Shaobo section of the Grand Canal from the lake, creating an independent waterway. It also served as a crucial barrier against Huaihe River flooding and protected the safety of Shaobo Town. The existing section of the dike is 300 meters long from north to south, with a trapezoidal cross-section, 8 meters wide at the bottom, 2.5 to 3 meters wide at the top, and 5 meters high.

Climate and best time to travel

The subtropical monsoon climate brings together lonely clouds and wild cranes to the Shaobo Ancient Dike. The scenery is beautiful and breathtaking, making it suitable for travel in all seasons.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Visit the Shaobo Ancient Dike, experience the endless historical heritage, and enjoy the picturesque scenery.

It is recommended to play for about 30 minutes.

Tickets

free

Attraction opening hours

Open all day

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Most Popular FAQs for Shaobo Ancient Dike

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

The Shaobo Ancient Dike is a historical engineering marvel that dates back several centuries. It played a critical role in flood prevention and irrigation in the Yangzhou region, helping to shape the local agriculture and communities. The dike is an important cultural heritage site that showcases ancient Chinese water management techniques.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

The Shaobo Ancient Dike is located in the Yangzhou area, along the Shaobo River. It can be reached by taxi or public bus from downtown Yangzhou. Walking from nearby accommodations is also an option, especially if you are staying near the dike.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The dike area is open year-round, and visitors can explore the site at any time during daylight hours. The best times to visit are in the early morning or late afternoon, when the weather is cooler and the site is less crowded.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

There is no entrance fee for visiting the Shaobo Ancient Dike. It is a public heritage site, and visitors can freely explore the area.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

No tickets are required, so there is no need for advance booking. Just visit the dike during daylight hours.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

You can explore the Shaobo Ancient Dike in approximately 1 to 2 hours, depending on how much time you spend walking and enjoying the scenery.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

• The historic dike itself, with views of the river and surrounding nature.
• The nearby wetlands and natural landscapes that provide opportunities for bird watching and photography.
• Informational plaques that provide insight into the dike’s history and its role in local irrigation.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours are not commonly offered at the Shaobo Ancient Dike. However, some local guides may be available for hire on-site, typically speaking Mandarin.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• The top of the dike offers panoramic views of the river and surrounding countryside, making it an ideal spot for photography.
• Near the wetlands, especially at sunset, provides excellent lighting for nature shots.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

The recommended route is to start at the southern end of the dike and walk along its length, stopping at various scenic points along the way. You can end your walk by exploring the wetlands and nearby nature areas.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

Night visits and light shows are not available at the Shaobo Ancient Dike. It is best to visit during the daytime for optimal views and experience.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

The Shaobo Ancient Dike tends to be less crowded on weekdays, especially in the morning. Weekends and holidays can be busier, so visiting on a weekday is recommended if you prefer a quieter experience.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

• Basic facilities such as public toilets are available near the dike.
• There are no restaurants or shops directly on the dike, but food and water can be purchased in nearby towns or villages.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

The Shaobo Ancient Dike is mostly accessible to elderly and children, though some areas may have uneven surfaces. It might be challenging for visitors with disabilities due to limited infrastructure in certain parts of the site.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Since there is no entrance fee, cash or mobile payments are not required for visiting the dike. However, in nearby areas, mobile payment methods like Alipay and WeChat Pay are widely accepted.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

• There are several local restaurants in the nearby villages offering traditional Yangzhou dishes and snacks.
• Most of these places are small, family-run businesses serving local specialties such as Yangzhou fried rice.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian options are available in some local restaurants. Halal food options are limited in the area, but vegetarian dishes are widely available.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

• There are several hotels and guesthouses in Yangzhou city center, which is a short drive from the Shaobo Ancient Dike.
• Options range from budget to mid-range accommodations, with some offering traditional Chinese-style rooms.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

• The Slender West Lake, a famous scenic area in Yangzhou, is nearby and can be easily combined with a visit to the dike.
• The Daming Temple and Yangzhou Museum are also in close proximity and worth visiting.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

There are no souvenir shops directly at the Shaobo Ancient Dike. However, in nearby towns, you can find traditional crafts such as silk products and pottery as souvenirs.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

• Taxi or private car is the best option to continue your trip to nearby attractions or back to the city center.
• Public transportation options, such as buses, are also available from nearby villages to Yangzhou.