Start at Gongchen Bridge, walk the canal-side museums, then take the evening cruise.
Suggested Itinerary
- Gongchen Bridge
Begin at the stone arch bridge - the canal's iconic landmark. - The canal-side museums
Walk the banks past the knife, scissors and umbrella museums. - The night cruise
Board the cruise boat at the pier south of the bridge for the illuminated journey.
What to See
1
Gongchen Bridge
The 1631 three-arch stone bridge spanning the canal.
2
The China Umbrella Museum
A museum dedicated entirely to umbrellas - surprisingly fascinating.
3
Xiaohe Old Street
Qing-dynasty shopfronts and teahouses on the western bank.
4
The Canal Locks
Watch barges rising and falling in the locks - working engineering.
5
The Qiaoxi Historic Block
Restored canal houses and courtyards south of the bridge.
6
The Illuminated Night Cruise
The canal's bridges and warehouses lit up from the water.
Photo Gallery






Tips from Real Travelers
Food & Drink
Xiaohe Old Street teahouses
Tea and snacks in Qing-dynasty shopfronts along the canal.
Qiaoxi restaurants
Canal-side restaurants serving Hangzhou cuisine.
The canal-side food stalls
Snacks and drinks along the towpaths.
Downtown Hangzhou
Return to the city centre for the full range of dining.
Travel in China
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