The Beijing-Hangzhou Grand Canal, operating for more than 2,500 years, is the oldest and longest artificial waterway in the world. Known as one of the two magnificent projects of ancient China, the canal is as famous as the Great Wall in Beijing.

The Hangzhou section of the canal stretches a total length of 39 kilometers. It enters the city from Tangqi ancient town in Yuhang district, travels through Gongshu and Shangcheng districts, and finally flows into the Qiantang River from the Three Gorges Ship Lock.

Visitors are recommended to take a boat trip on the ancient waterway to enjoy some of its unrivaled scenery as well as the fascinating landscape of Jiangnan Water Town.

Besides the activities on the water, three neighboring places along the Canal-Dadou Road Historic District, Xiaohezhi Street, and Qiaoxi Historic Street are recommended for a leisurely walk.

The Gongshu Canal Sports Park Gymnasium, also called Hangzhou Umbrella due to its shape, is a large-scale comprehensive urban park integrating leisure green space, sports venues and commercial blocks in the main urban area of Hangzhou.

The park was constructed with the priority of protecting its surrounding rivers and trees to serve the Games as well as the public. It is warmly welcomed and greatly appreciated by parents and their children and those who love exercise.