Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
Beijing has unveiled a new action plan for the protection and development of the Grand Canal’s cultural heritage in 2025, laying out 32 specific initiatives.
Among the highlights are the opening of a 15-kilometer cruise route on the Bahe River, the restoration of the Western Gate of the Summer Palace, and the second phase of archaeological research along the ancient riverbed of the Grand Canal in Tongzhou district.
Stretching across seven districts – Changping, Haidian, Xicheng, Dongcheng, Chaoyang, Shunyi, and Tongzhou – the Beijing section of the Grand Canal is fed by springs such as Baifu and flows into the North Canal. Over the years, the city has worked to establish a development model that links key heritage sites along the canal. Notable progress includes the clearing of the Baifu Spring site and joint exhibitions with eight provincial-level regions along the waterway.
One of the most anticipated projects is the Luxian County Ancient City Ruins Archaeological Park, set to open soon. As the earliest known Han dynasty (202 B.C.-A.D. 220) city site in the Tongzhou area, Luxian county offers rare insights into ancient craftsmanship such as pottery and metallurgy. Its discovery pushes the history of urban development in Tongzhou back by over 2,000 years.
Efforts to improve ecology and environment of the canal are also gaining momentum. According to an official from the municipal development and reform commission, 500 million cubic meters of water have been replenished into the canal’s Beijing section. The 62-kilometer stretch of the North Canal connecting Beijing and Hebei is now fully navigable, and more than 50 kilometers of greenways have been built or upgraded. Water quality has also improved significantly, with no segments falling below national standards, according to the official.
Meanwhile, cultural tourism is set for another boost. Following the opening of several major cultural venues in Beijing’s sub-center and the successful application of a 5A-rated Grand Canal tourist zone in Tongzhou, the city plans to further activate waterfront areas along the Bahe and Liangma rivers. Earlier this year, the INDIGO Harbor Dock – starting point for Bahe cruises – opened to the public. Later this year, residents will be able to enjoy boat rides from Jiuxianqiao in Chaoyang district all the way to the city’s sub-center in Tongzhou.
Plans to upgrade public spaces along the canal are also in motion, with improvements coming to the livability of riverside areas, the redevelopment of key waterfront landmarks, and support for the growth of themed towns.
According the plan, this year will also feature a range of Grand Canal-related events, from cultural festivals and exhibitions to art programs and sporting competitions – all part of Beijing’s ongoing effort to breathe new life into its historical waterways.