The Grand Canal
Overview
Histroy and Background
The Grand Canal is the oldest and longest man-made waterway in the world. Parts of this canal between Hangzhou and Beijing date back more than 2000 years. Several million workers were required to construct and connect the many sections of the canal. Disuse and disrepair, flooding and silting have made parts of the canal unnavigable, but there are sections still in use and much traffic can still be seen on both the major and minor waterways. Other modes of transportation helped make the need for this form of transportation unnecessary.
Feature
The town inherited its current name in 589, in the Sui Dynasty, and underwent considerable development in the Tang and Song dynasties. As early as the Song Dynasty, Suzhou had about the same size as it is today. Some of the city’s famous gardens were first established in those days as well, when Suzhou had already become famous for silk weaving.
Many of the famous gardens built as early as the 10th century are still intact, and some have been restored to their former beauty. A visit to these gardens could be one of the highlights of one’s visit to China.
Travel Tips
Cruises leave from the Shuishanglvyou Wharf.
Features
The oldest and longest man-made waterway in the world
