The Grand Canal, or the Beijing-Hangzhou Canal, was a giant irrigation project of ancient China. With a history of over 1,400 years and a length of 1,794 kilometers, it is one of the world's oldest canals and is the longest man-made river in the world.

The canal goes from Tongxian County, Beijing in the north to Hangzhou, the capital of Zhejiang Province in the south. It flows to Beijing, Tianjin, Hebei, Shandong, Jiangsu and Zhejiang, and connects five large rivers - the Haihe, Yellow, Huaihe, and Qiantang and Yangtze River.

In the late Spring and Autumn Period in the 5th century B.C., a canal was first cut near Yangzhou, Jiangsu Province, to guide the waters of the Yangtze River to the north. This was lengthened first during the Sui Dynasty of the 7th century, and finally during the Yuan Dynasty of 13th century, to become what has been known as the Grand Canal. The Grand Canal was the major transport artery between north and south China during the Yuan, Ming and Qing Dynasties, contributing greatly to the economic and cultural exchange between north and south - a role denied to the large natural rivers that mostly flow from west to east. Now more than 2000 years old, some parts of the canal are still in use, mainly functioning as a water-diversion conduit.

The Grand Canal, which joined the river systems from different directions, offered much facility to transport foods and goods from south to north in past times. Just as importantly, it greatly improved the administration and defense of China as a whole and strengthened economic and cultural intercourse between north and south.

This massive creation has been a huge boost to the Chinese economy, ensuring that the country will continue. Although the canal is now more than 2,000 years old, many parts of it are still being used as a water diversion conduit. With this water facility, food and other goods can be transported from the south to the north. Another huge benefit in addition to strengthening cultural connections and the local economies is that the Grand Canal has improved the defense and administration of China. 

For travelers, the Grand Canal offers the best method for enjoying the magnificent scenery and landscaping of the country seen along the river towns. By taking a boat cruise down the canal, you can see ancient dwellings, historical relics, and stone bridges, while being served mouthwatering, authentic Chinese food. Deemed one of the most magnificent structures in ancient China along with the Great Wall of China, this canal is intriguing and fascinating, connecting the historical past with the present and future of this wonderful country.

Like the Great Wall, the Grand Canal is noted as one of the most magnificent and wondrous constructions in ancient China, which can really offer one a profound look into China's fascinating, historical past.