Grand Canal, Ancient waterway in Beijing, China.
The Grand Canal is an artificial waterway in China running from Beijing to Hangzhou and connecting several rivers. The route crosses plains and rural regions and consists of different sections built over centuries.
The canal took shape from the 7th century onward by linking natural waterways and building new sections under different rulers. Later dynasties expanded the system to bring grain from the south to the capital.
The name refers to the long route connecting northern and southern China, and today cargo barges still pass through some sections. Old warehouses and modern apartment blocks stand side by side along the banks, showing everyday life on the water.
Many sections run through rural areas where villages and small towns line the banks and offer access to footpaths. Some bridges and locks are still visible even if not all stretches remain navigable.
In some sections engineers built a system of water gates and channels centuries ago to control flooding and adjust water levels. This technique allowed boats to travel over hilly terrain without the water draining too quickly.
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