The first boats enter the second channel of the Hangzhou section of the Beijing-Hangzhou Grand Canal. [Photo/hangzhou.com.cn]

The Beijing-Hangzhou Grand Canal, the longest and largest ancient canal in the world, stretches all the way from Beijing in the north to Hangzhou in the south. In Zhejiang province, the canal plays a vital role in transporting bulk materials such as coal, oil, steel, and construction materials.

"The old canal passes through the urban area of Hangzhou. Now, with the opening of the new channel, its main function will be cargo transportation. In the future, the old canal will focus more on tourism and sightseeing," explained Peng Junying, director of the office of the Second Channel of the Canal in Linping.

The canal's urban section will mainly offer water passenger transportation and tourism. Water buses, sightseeing boats, and yachts will be the primary means of transportation, offering the perfect chance to experience the unique charm of Hangzhou.