Join an English-speaking guide to unlock the 2,000-year storey of the Beijing-Hangzhou Grand Canal! Visit the Grand Canal Museum to explore 4 themed exhibition halls showcasing how the canal shaped Chinese history. Walk across Gongchen Bridge, an iconic ancient bridge known as “half of Hangzhou’s urban history,” and wander along the lesser-known West Bridge Straight Street—a hidden gem lined with ancient residences draped in trumpet creepers.
The highlight is the hands-on intangible heritage oil-paper umbrella crafting experience! With a 230-year history in Hangzhou, this traditional rain gear carries profound cultural meanings: bamboo frames symbolise “blessings of peace,” while the umbrella’s round shape represents “family reunion” and “five blessings.” Craft your own unique oil-paper umbrella to take home as a special souvenir!
No shopping stops, no hidden fees, and 24/7 service support—immerse yourself in the charming water town vibes of the Jiangnan Grand Canal!
Itinerary (Morning/Afternoon Sessions)
Morning Session
09:00 Gathering: Beijing-Hangzhou Grand Canal Museum
10:00 Guided Tour of Grand Canal Museum (Explore 4 exhibition halls on canal history)
10:30 Stroll Along West Bridge Straight Street (Admire ancient residences & trumpet creeper-lined lanes)
11:00 Intangible Heritage Oil-Paper Umbrella Crafting (Hands-on making + cultural interpretation)
11:30 Tour Concludes
Afternoon Session
14:00 Gathering: Beijing-Hangzhou Grand Canal Museum
15:00 Guided Tour of Grand Canal Museum
15:30 Stroll Along West Bridge Straight Street
16:00 Intangible Heritage Oil-Paper Umbrella Crafting
16:30 Tour Concludes