Asked 8 Hangzhou locals‼️ They all said besides West Lake, you must visit here!

If you’re traveling from Shanghai to Hangzhou, instead of visiting the once-popular but now overhyped spot Tianzifang (田子坊), take a stroll along the Grand Canal (大运河) in Hangzhou. This historic waterway, once the busiest route connecting Beijing to the Jiangnan region, has borne witness to the daily lives of people from centuries past. As you walk along this ancient path, you’ll not only feel the weight of history but also immerse yourself in the authentic charm of a Jiangnan water town. The Grand Canal’s tranquility and elegance far surpass the crowded tourist traps, adding a sense of serenity and poetry to your journey.

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When you come to Hangzhou, besides visiting West Lake, you definitely shouldn’t miss the Grand Canal (京杭大运河). With its white walls and black tiles, and stone-paved streets, it’s much more peaceful and relaxing than the bustling Hefang Street (河坊街).

But the Grand Canal is vast, with many entry points. How can you explore its essence without getting exhausted?

👉Here’s a local-approved guide for a perfect tour: 👍This route combines the 3R Canal Water Bus, classic museums along the canal, and charming historic districts.

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👉One-Day Canal Tour Route 3R Canal Water Bus + Canal City Walk Route

👉How to get there?

  • Take Metro 🚇 Line 5 to the Grand Canal Station (大运河地铁站), exit at A, and walk 20 minutes to the Canal Tiandi Ferry Terminal (运河天地轮渡站).
  • Or take Bus 🚌 Line 1 to the Canal Tiandi Bus Stop (运河天地公交站).
  • From here, take the 3R Canal Water Bus Line 1 to Gongchen Bridge (拱宸桥).

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👉City Walk Route Gongchen Bridge (拱宸桥) - China Grand Canal Museum (中国大运河博物馆) - Qiaoxi Historic District (桥西历史街区) - China Umbrella Museum (中国伞博物馆) - China Knife, Scissors, and Sword Museum (中国刀剪剑博物馆) - China Rosewood Museum (中国紫檀博物馆) - Xiaohe Straight Street (小河直街) - Xiaohe Park (小河公园) - Dadou Road Historic District (大兜路历史街区) - Xiangji Temple (香积寺) - Shengli River Food Street (胜利河美食街).

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❤️About the Attractions

  • #Canal Water Bus Line 1: Tickets are available on board the 3R bus.
  • #Gongchen Bridge: The starting point of the Grand Canal, with a history spanning over a thousand years.
  • #China Grand Canal Museum: ⏰ 9 AM - 4 PM, closed on Mondays. Showcases the cultural heritage from Beijing to Hangzhou.
  • #Qiaoxi Historic District: Full of unique shops, perfect for a leisurely stroll. Nearby are the #China Umbrella Museum, #China Knife, Scissors, and Sword Museum, and #China Rosewood Museum—a one-stop destination for learning about these cultural treasures. Closed on Mondays.
  • #Xiaohe Straight Street: A quintessential Jiangnan area with stone-paved lanes and a plethora of unique shops and artsy boutiques, perfect for a relaxed and photogenic stroll.
  • #Xiaohe Park: Once an oil depot, now transformed into an industrial-style park, great for a family outing.
  • #Dadou Road Historic District: Home to many late Qing and early Republican-era buildings, still inhabited by local residents, with a vibrant street life. The night views are especially beautiful.
  • #Xiangji Temple: ⏰ 8 AM - 5 PM, one of the few temples in China dedicated to the God of Food. 💰: 20 RMB. Known for its delicious vegetarian dishes and beautiful prayer beads.
  • #Shengli River Food Street: A lively riverside night market perfect for a stroll while enjoying food and drinks. Conveniently located near the metro station for an easy return after dining.

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‼️Tips:

  • Except for Xiangji Temple, all attractions on this route are free.
  • The route combines the water bus, classic canal museums, and unique historic streets. It’s best to start early and take your time exploring.
  • Summer brings lots of mosquitoes, so bring insect repellent and stay sun-protected.

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