You’ve surely heard of the Panama Canal and probably even the Grand Canal in Venice. But how many of you know about the Great Canal in China? It’s not well known to many, and this is a pity - because it is one of the oldest and longest waterways in the world, certainly on the Asian continent where it sits. So, to get to know the Chinese Grand Canal a bit more, and the exotic beauty that hides on the 1,794 kilometers along which it is built, you are invited to take a look at some wonderful pictures and learn more about this magnificent canal and the path it crosses in this vast and mysterious country.
The construction of the Grand Canal was initiated by King Fu Chai, who ruled China in the 4th century BCE and planned to lead his troops to the north of the country on a journey of conquest. The route of the Grand Canal opens in the south, from the peaceful city of Hangzhou, which is fully visible in the two pictures above, and runs thousands of miles north, to Tongzhou city, near Beijing.
From Hangzhou, the canal runs along the eastern bank of Lake Tai, passing through the city of Suzhou, a top tourist attraction in this part of China, as well as an important center of the Chinese silk industry.
From Suzhou, the canal route passes through the fertile and verdant land of Jiangsu Province, which can be seen in the next picture.
Later in Jiangsu Province, the canal passes through the ancient city of Wuxi, with a history of more than 3,000 years, but also an impressive present as an industrial center on an international scale.
In the city of Zhenjiang, the former capital of the province, which still serves as the hub of transportation in the region, the canal makes its way and creates a beautiful view.
"The Inner Canal," is the section of the canal that runs from the area of Zhenjiang to the cultivating city of Huai An, which is seen in this magnificent picture taken just as the sun rises.
Another center that enjoyed its settlement alongside the canal route is Shao Bo Zhen, a town of more than 1,600 years, which in the distant past was a bustling business hub. In this photo, you can see an aerial photograph of it.
In the next beautiful picture, you can see the evening descending on the canal in the section next to the city of Pizhou, which enjoyed the flourishing of Imperial China in ancient times, where it played a more central role today.
Our journey along the canal continues and now we’ve reached the city of Jining, which was once known as "the capital of the Grand Canal" because it sits at the highest and northernmost point of its route, and whoever controlled it was able to control the entire path.
From Jining, the canal continues and stretches a few hundred kilometers to the big city and Central Tianjin, which, as can be seen from the photo before us, is also in an impressive construction and development phase alongside the section of the canal passing through its territory.
We begin to approach the end of our journey, another 180 kilometers in all until the canal ends in the Beijing area, but until then you can enjoy the passing of the Hebei Province, within the cities of Changzhou and Da Zhou, which you can admire in the 3 following photos.
10 Gorgeous Villages and Towns in The Netherlands
The Netherlands is considered one of the most beloved countries in Western Europe, but to get to know it well, visit these 10 villages and towns.
Fall In Love With These Gorgeous Pink Lakes
The sight of a pink lake is rare, and utterly gorgeous. Fall in love with photos of pink lakes from around the world.
28 Places of Humbling Beauty You Can Find In Asia
Asia is a stunning and highly diverse continent with countless locations to explore. It's time for you to see 28 of the most humbling, beautiful places there.
Thailand's 7 Steps to Heaven- Erawan Falls
Today we're visiting Erawan Falls in Thailand and its 7 natural pools.
Have You Seen the Spectacular Red Lands of China Before?
China is becoming more synonymous with pollution than natural beauty, but this area of the country is an exception. See the stunning Red Lands of China.
Journey with Me to the Amazing Rainbow Mountains of Peru
We invite you to accompany us on an amazing and breath-taking trip across Peru's spectacular landscapes, on the way to the magnificent Rainbow Mountains...
The Netherlands Is a Country of the Future For 7 Reasons
The Netherlands is a country that others should emulate for a whole variety of reasons, not least these 7 we're about to show you in this article.
Interactive Map: 12 Beautiful New Zealand Sights
12 gorgeous sights you will see in New Zealand. Just click on any of the symbols to see a video of that place!
Chile Has So Many Beautiful Natural Wonders It's Unfair
These photos will show you just why more than 2 million people come to Chile every year.
10 Places For Those Seeking Peace and Spiritual Growth
This list features some of the famous and lesser-known spiritual destinations from all over the world.
Wow! These Bird’s Eye Views at Zürich Take My Breath Away
Who knew the finance capital of Europe is THAT beautiful? Watch this HD video to see Zürich in all its glory for yourself
10 Fascinating Places to Visit in Jordan
Jordan is a beautiful and exotic country. As you can imagine, it's home to many places that are worth visiting, such as the capital, Amman. Here are the top 10.
See 13 Of the Most Magical and Breathtaking Sites in Vietnam
After visiting Vietnam, a country of natural beauty, fascinating history, and authentic cultural heritage, I compiled a list of 13 must see sites!
Honey, This Doesn't Look Like the Pictures...
When planning a vacation, no matter how exotic the destination seems, what we want isn't always what we get...
This Travel Log Will Take You Through Egypt's Wonders
This short travelogue will take you through some of the most amazing Pharaonic sights of Egypt.
Take a Walk Among 11 of London's Greatest Sights
Join us on this virtual journey, accompanied by informative explanations, and get a taste of the wonders that London has to offer.
8 of the History’s Most Epic Walls
Read on to discover some of the famous walls apart from the Great Wall of China that have left their mark on history.
Admire 8 Tourist Attractions in Every Season of the Year
From New York to India and then to the distant reaches of Lake Baikal, here is how 8 famous tourist destinations look like in every season
INTERACTIVE: Visit 11 Stunning Locations in MALTA!
The map you see before you has 11 marked locations. Click on any of these locations and you'll see their name and a beautiful video of each place
This Beautiful Palace Appears to Hover Over the Water
When you see this palace, you'll want to stay there at least once in your life. In addition to its exquisite architecture, it appears to float on water.
Winter Hikers, Gather Round for the Best Tip of the Season
Here's how advanced snow hikers layer clothing in the winter.
Take a Virtual Trip to Australia With An Interactive Guide
Australia is an amazing country that leaves many of us in complete awe for a whole variety of reasons. Take an interactive tour of the country.
Weird Architecture: 12 Really Unusual Buildings
From a building that sings in the rain to one that looks like a pair of dancers, these weird and wonderful structures are sure to blow your mind.
Meghalaya: An Indian State Blessed With Endless Beauty
Meghalaya is a beautiful state in the northeast corner of India, which is filled with numerous natural wonders and cultural excitements.
February Is a Gloomy Month, So Why Not Take a Vacation?
February isn't generally the most pleasant of months, so why not hop on a plane and go somewhere fun? These are the 10 best places to be in February.
These Unusual Beaches Offer a Unique View of Paradise
If you are a beach lover with an eye for the unusual, then you might want to add some of these stunning spots to your bucket list.
Aren't Tuscany's Landscapes Absolutely Magnificent?
Tuscany is one of Italy's highlights, take a look at it's stunning countryside here.
This Dutch Tulip Garden is the Most Magnificent on Earth...
Take an exclusive look at the most beautiful tulip garden on the planet - the world-famous Keukenhof - through 15 stunning photos
These Photos Could Only Be Taken in India...
India is an enormous, diverse and complex place. Some of the sites you'll see in this fascinating country are unlike those you'll see anywhere else. Take a look
14 Small Towns and Cities That Reveal Austria's True Charm
Get to know Austria's lesser-known cities and towns. They may be small but they tell the true story of the beautiful country in their humble and wonderful way.
Come With Us as We Tour Portugal's Gorgeous Heritage Sites
In this article, we will introduce you to some of Portugal's most renowned and awe-inspiring World Heritage sites. I
So Juicy & Creamy! The Best CHEESE DESSERTS in the World
For those who have a sweet tooth, these cheese desserts are a must-try.
7 Cool Alleyways Where Street Art Takes Center Stage
In these cool alleyways, incredible artworks take the center stage.
Have You Ever Seen Bulgaria's Vast Nature?
Come fly with us over the heartbreaking vistas of Bulgaria.
Discover 9 Attractions in a Surprising Resort Town, Sochi
Sochi is one of the fastest developing resorts in Europe, and we invite you to get to know this destination with 9 attractions that shouldn't be missed!
Take a Tour of Fenghuang, China's Ancient County!
Fenghuang County is one of the most amazing places in China - take a look!
The 10 Attractions that’ll Make You Want to Fly to Monaco
The French Riviera awaits you in a tiny but wonderful city-state which will provide you with an exceptional holiday that you would not expect in France ...
Life in Turkey’s Istanbul is Pretty Special – 15 Pictures
Istanbul in Turkey is a city of many wonderful contrasts as you will see in these striking pictures.
The World is Full of Unique Places, But These 8 Stand Out
The world is full of intriguing places, some of which are incredibly unique. Here are 8 of the most fascinating ones.
Get Ready to Discover the Tiny Nation of Brunei
Get ready to fall in love with one of the world's tiniest and most unique nations - Brunei!
28 Places of Humbling Beauty You Can Find In Asia
Asia is a stunning and highly diverse continent with countless locations to explore. It's time for you to see 28 of the most humbling, beautiful places there.
Austria's Lake District Is Gorgeous Beyond Belief!
I have rarely been as stunned as I was when I saw how beautiful Salzkammergut in Austria is. Visit this amazing lake district in Europe.
Tired of Touring the Same Cities? Check Out THESE Pearls!
We always consider major capitals as great destinations to visit, however there are other towns and cities that are wonderful, yet less obvious. Here are 12.
The 10 Most Incredible Beaches of Portugal
Here are the 10 beaches you should know in Portugal and which are recommended to go to on your next vacation there.
The Award for the Most Creative Christmas Tree Goes To...
These creative DIY Christmas trees will inspire you to make one of your own!
10 Famous, Gorgeous Streets We Should All Stroll Down
If you are also attracted to the 10 streets in front of you, maybe one day you will find yourself there