Beijing Grand Canal Cultural Tourism Zone
Spot Introduction
The Beijing Grand Canal Cultural Tourism Zone is located in Tongzhou District, the sub-center of Beijing, and is a crucial node of the Beijing-Hangzhou Grand Canal. Here, not only has the canal cultural heritage been preserved, but modern cultural and artistic elements have also been integrated, making it a cultural tourism destination that showcases the fusion of canal civilization and modern urban life.
The Grand Canal, originally built during the Sui Dynasty, has a history of over 1400 years and is the longest ancient canal in the world. As an important water transportation route in ancient China, the Grand Canal has witnessed the historical changes of Beijing as a capital city. Nowadays, historical relics such as the ancient canal riverbed and dock遗址 have been well preserved. At the same time, through modern landscape design, history, culture, and modern life are perfectly integrated.
The most striking feature of the scenic area is the 8-kilometer-long canal cultural landscape belt, along which are distributed multiple theme parks and cultural squares. Visitors can stroll along the quaint canal walkway, admire the emulated ancient buildings on both sides, and experience the unique charm of the millennium-old canal. The nighttime light show further embellishes the canal, making it a new popular destination in Beijing.
In recent years, the scenic area has added multiple cultural experience projects, including a digital exhibition hall for canal culture and a non-heritage cultural exhibition center. These projects vividly再现the history of the canal through modern technological means. Visitors can take a ride on an emulated ancient boat to experience ancient water transportation culture or participate in traditional handicraft production to feel the folk customs along the canal.
Must-visit Attractions
Grand Canal Forest Park
- Waterfront Landscape Belt
- Entertainment and Recreational Facilities
- Suggested visiting time: 60 minutes
Tongzhou Ancient City Relic Park
- Displays ancient canal culture
- Exhibition of historical artifacts
- Suggested visiting time: 90 minutes
Grand Canal Cultural Exhibition Hall
- Exhibition of canal history and culture
- Interactive experience facilities
- Suggested visiting time: 60 minutes
Canal Night Scene Belt
- Light show performance
- Waterfront recreation area
- Suggested visiting time: 45 minutes
Visiting Suggestions
Best Touring Route
- Cultural Exhibition Hall → Ancient City Relic Park → Forest Park → Night Scene Viewing
- It is recommended to visit in the evening to enjoy the night view
Visiting Schedule
- Exhibition hall opening hours: 9:00-17:00
- Best time for night scene viewing: 19:00-21:00
- Special cultural activities during holidays
Practical Tips
- The scenic area is large, so it is recommended to bike or take a sightseeing bus
- Bicycles can be rented for touring
- It is recommended to download the scenic area navigation APP
Transportation Guide
- Subway: Tongzhou Beiyuan Station on Line 6
- Bus: Multiple lines including T15, T19, T20, etc.
- Self-drive: Jingha Expressway or Tongshun Road
- Sightseeing bus: Environmentally friendly sightseeing buses are available within the scenic area
Recommended Nearby Food
- Canal Cultural Food Street
- Tongzhou Snack Street
- Canal People Theme Restaurant
- Grand Canal Food Plaza
Special Reminders
- Some exhibition halls require advance reservations
- There are many mosquitoes in summer, so be careful of mosquito bites
- It is recommended to bring a sunshade as resting places are limited
- A deposit and valid ID are required for bicycle rental
- The timing of the night light show may vary with the seasons
- There are more visitors on weekends, so it is recommended to visit during off-peak hours
- It is recommended to take photos in the morning or at dusk.