The Grand Canal is the planet's longest canal, extending 1776 km from Beijing to Hangzhou. What's more amazing is that this remarkable construction was built over 2000 years ago. The first beginnings of this UNESCO Heritage Site date to the 5th century BCE. It currently unites the Yellow River and the Yangtze River, two of the most significant rivers in China.
For the best view of the Grand Canal, go to the Gongchen Bridge. It is a three-arched gravel bridge, 92 m in length, and 16 m tall, dated to the Ming Dynasty. The Grand Canal is best visited at night or just before sunset. Romantic lights are decked along the bridge, with a never-ending string of barges plying through the canal. Once you intersect the bridge, you’ll behold the lovely Qiaoxi History Culture Street, where the ancient homes are transformed into small art galleries, cafes, restaurants and museums!