The Great Canal

The Grand Canal connects the present cities of Beijing in the north and Hangzhou in the south is the world's longest man-made waterway with a length of about 1800 kilometers, The canal served as dynastic capitals in the past, and contains 24 locks and 60 bridges. Since most of China's major rivers flow from west to east, the fact that the Grand Canal runs north and south provides it as an important connector between the Yangtze River valley and the Yellow River valley, and other minor river systems. It is being restored as a water-diversion conduit. As an important part of the grand canal,the moat of Suzhou encircles around this historical city in Hangzhou province. Many boats provide visitors excellent services,Sitting on a boat,visitors enjoy the fascinating scenery along the river. When the night color fills the air through the rosy sunset, taking damp taste, covers the whole river, you would totally lost yourself. Along with the river there are ancient city wall relics, The ancient doors of Suzhou which are tied for land and water. As an representative gate named Xumen was built for preventing flooding;the bridges are connecting places from inside to outside. All these walls,gates and bridges go with this river along thousands of years. They are seeing this city and its people developing in a high pace now. Also, they are showing the unique and affluent cultural style of Suzhou. Water transport of grain to the capital Fengqiao old town located in the intersection of The Grand Canal and the moat of Suzhou.Its prosperity originated in Tang Dynasty from which period the grains of districts around would be sent to the capital Beijing on boat from here.. The irrigational culture became centuries-old . Where there is a river, there is a bridge. The 'Maple bridge' stands out amoung the whole number of bridges on this canal part. Customs pass was set on this bridge to ensure the security of boats within grains to the capital. After its forbidden function, it was called the 'Forbidden Bridge'as well. A famous poem 'Soliloquy at Cold Mountain Temple' written by a poet in Tang dynasty was describing this bridge and make it popular.

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CTP08: 12 Days China Paradise		from US$1736
	Destination:Beijing-Xi'an-Hangzhou-Suzhou-Shanghai Features:Immerse yourself in China's diverse cultures as we take you to some of the best and most diverse of China's cultural heritages. >> details  Traveler Reviews and Comments

CTP09: 12 Days China Imperial City Tour		from US$1947
	Destination:Beijing-Xi'an-Nanjing-Suzhou-Shanghai Features:A tour to three historical cities of China - Beijing, Xi'an and Nanjing, together wth modernest city of Shanghai and delicant gardens in Suzhou. >> details  Traveler Reviews and Comments

CTP36: 12 Days Imperial and Elegant China		from US$2103
	Destination:Beijing-Xi'an-Hangzhou-Suzhou-Shanghai Features:You will enjoy different style cuisine such as Beijing roast duck, dumpling dinner in Xian and Shanghai style dimsum. Manificant shows and activities like kungfu show, Tang Dynasty show, Impression West Lake, Night cruise on Huangpu River, are also waiting for you to enjoy. >> details  Traveler Reviews and Comments

SZCP-2: 3 Days Suzhou Highlights Tour		fromUS$172
	Attractions:View and feel the landscape and culture of gardens in Suzhou Cruise on the Grand Canal to experience this old but still busy way of transportation Enjoy the beautiful performance of Garden Show to grasp the true spirit of Chinese Garden construction as well as get close to Chinese dance and music Features:Suzhou is permeated right through with garden atmosphere. Such classical gardens were actually the dream of a lifetime home to which the Chinese of old aspired. >> details  Traveler Reviews and Comments