Grand Canal (China)

Lore & Background

The oldest sections of the Grand Canal were completed in the late 6th century BC (c. His massive conscription efforts contributed to rebellions and the fall of the Sui, but the canal proved beneficial during the subsequent Tang dynasty. The canal underwent route changes over centuries, with its current main stem—the Jing–Hang Grand Canal—extending from Beijing to Hangzhou. It is divided into six subsections: the Jiangnan Canal, Inner Canal, Middle Canal, Lu Canal, Southern Canal, and Northern Canal. The canal played a major role in reuniting northern and southern China, and officials in charge grew enormously wealthy. Despite damage from floods, rebellions, and wars, its importance grew under the Yuan, Ming, and Qing dynasties. The greatest height on the canal is 42 m above sea level in Shandong. The pound lock, invented by Song official Qiao Weiyue in the 10th century, allowed ships to reach higher elevations. The canal has been admired by visitors including the Japanese monk Ennin, Persian historian Rashid al-Din Hamadani, Korean official Choe Bu, and Italian missionary Matteo Ricci.

Reader's Guide

The Grand Canal's significance lies in its role as a central artery for economic and political integration across China for over two millennia. By connecting the Yellow River, Huai River, Yangtze, and other waterways, it enabled the transport of grain, goods, and troops between the agricultural south and the political north. This infrastructure supported the stability and expansion of successive dynasties, from the Sui through the Qing. The canal also facilitated cultural exchange and the growth of economic hubs along its route. In modern times, the People's Republic of China has worked to improve navigability, and the portion south of the Yellow River remains heavily used by barges. The canal also serves as the eastern path of the South-North Water Diversion Project, aimed at providing clean water to the north, leading to regulations and projects to improve water quality.

Did You Know?

• The pound lock was invented by Song official Qiao Weiyue in the 10th century to help ships reach higher elevations.
• The canal was admired by visitors including the Japanese monk Ennin, Persian historian Rashid al-Din Hamadani, Korean official Choe Bu, and Italian missionary Matteo Ricci.