Ancient towns span history and the future

Vibrant culture celebrates rich heritage and draws tourist bonanza as visitors savor the experience

Throughout many centuries of history, the Grand Canal of China that traverses north and south has nurtured countless towns and villages along its path. These ancient towns, preserved through the ages thanks to their symbiotic relationship with the canal, stand as the finest witnesses and custodians of civilization.

The Grand Canal runs through the heart of Jiaxing, Zhejiang province, stretching more than 110 kilometers, bringing centuries of prosperity and splendor to the region.

Eighteen canal towns in the province, such as Wuzhen, Xitang and Puyuan, have flourished alongside the water, where literary figures like Mao Dun and Feng Zikai once resided, and traditional customs such as silk weaving and stone carving thrived due to the presence of water.