The Beijing-Hangzhou Grand Canal is the earliest and longest man-made canal in the world. With a total distance of more than 1700 kilometers, it starts from Beijing and ends in Hangzhou. The Grand Canal plays a great role in the exchange of economy and culture between southern and northern China, especially in the industrial and agricultural development in the canal line area.

The exceptional preservation of the Grand Canal section in Sixian county of Suzhou, East China’s Anhui province, has made it a vital resource for studying ancient water conservancy projects, transportation history, and social life. It not only carries the memory of history but also serves as an important platform for cultural inheritance and innovation.

The dragon boat races and national road cycling races enrich the cultural life of residents and promote tourism development. The traditional culture, represented by Sizhou Opera and the exquisite Canal feast, has attracted domestic and foreign tourists.

Editor: Cheng Dengyu