Changzhou Ancient Canal, a part of the Jiangnan Canal section of the Beijing-Hangzhou Grand Canal, flows through the city from west to east. The main tourist area is concentrated between the Canal No. 5 Creative District and Dongpo Park, offering visitors the opportunity to stroll through historical sites such as Bi Ji Lane, which is depicted in the classic novel ‘Dream of the Red Chamber’, or to take a boat trip to enjoy the scenic views along the canal’s banks.
Visitors to the Changzhou Ancient Canal will find a mix of well-known attractions and newly constructed buildings in ancient styles, making it an ideal destination for those interested in history and literature to immerse themselves in the past. However, for those seeking the authentic ancient charm, the experience might fall somewhat short. Recommended attractions along the canal include the Canal No. 5 Creative District, Ming City Wall, Bi Ji Lane, Qing Guo Lane, Tianning Temple, Hongmei Park, and Dongpo Park. A combination of walking and public transportation can be used to explore the canal.
The Canal No. 5 Creative District, once the fifth textile mill in Changzhou, has been transformed into a photography hotspot. The Xiying Gate Wall stands as the last remaining site of the Ming City Wall in Changzhou. Bi Ji Lane, known for its shops that produced combs overnight in ancient times, was once famous for the scene ‘Bi Liang Lights’. Qing Guo Lane, with its slightly worn appearance, is an old alley that adds to the historical ambiance. Tianning Temple boasts grand halls, and within it, the Tianning Pagoda displays exquisite Buddhist treasures. The poet Xu Zhimo once penned the verse ‘Listening to Chanting at Changzhou Tianning Zen Temple’, capturing the essence of this sacred place.Hongmei Park features a garden style, and within it stands the Wen Bi Tower, which is one of the oldest existing structures in Changzhou. The Yi Zhou Pavilion in Dongpo Park marks the spot where Su Dongpo once docked and disembarked.
The original water tour route of Changzhou’s Ancient Canal started at Canal No. 5 Wharf, proceeded to Bi Ji Lane, and then continued to Dongpo Park, with the option to embark or disembark at Bi Ji Lane. However, due to the construction of the subway in Changzhou, the route has been altered. Now, it runs from Canal No. 5 Wharf to Bi Ji Lane and then follows the Bai Dang River, offering a mixed experience that includes industrial heritage, historical sites, and the natural beauty of the Bai Dang River. This water tour is accessible all year round and operates throughout the day.
