Connects a number of river systems to include the Yangtze, Yellow Huaihe, Quiantang, and Haihe Rivers, and then at the southern end, flows through Hebei, Tianjin, Beijing, Jiangsu, Shandong, and Zhejiang. The Grand Canal of China is the world's oldest and longest canal, far surpassing the next two grand canals of the world: Suez and Panama Canal.

The Grand Canal was first brought under construction during the Wu Dynasty in 486 BC. Then it was extended during the Qi Dynasty and then again during the Sui Dynasty under the reign of Emperor Yangdi. The building of the canal began in 486 B.C. during the Wu Dynasty. It was extended during the Qi Dynasty, and later by Emperor Yangdi of Sui Dynasty during six years of furious construction from 605-610 AD.

The canal is 1,795 Km (1,114 miles) long with 24 locks and some 60 bridges, it took about 6,000,000 laborers to complete this second expansion and due to the harsh conditions and extensive work, approximately, 3,000,000 of those people died from the sheer labor and hunger. At that time, many believed the endeavor was a complete waste of human life and money, which was a huge contributor to the downfall of this dynasty.

Tangqi town in Yuhang county of Hangzhou is a famous ancient town on the Grand Canal in China. Till today, 300-year-old seven-arched Tongji Bridge and the ancient streets along the canal are well preserved.

For travelers, By taking a boat cruise down the canal must be the perfect treat to travel the Grand Canal, you can enjoy the magnificent scenery and landscaping of the country seen along the river towns, ancient dwellings, historical relics, and stone bridges, while being served mouthwatering, authentic Chinese food.