In springtime, the Jiang’nan area (south and east to the Yangtze River) comes alive with blooming flowers and a gentle mist that blankets its tranquil landscapes. It’s the perfect time to explore this region, and what better way to do that than by cruising the iconic Grand Canal in Hangzhou? This year, Hangzhou Land and Water Transportation Development Group has launched an exciting new option: the One-Day Canal Pass. This pass gives you ultimate flexibility to explore at your own pace, with unlimited stops and transfers at four key piers: Wulin Gate, Xiangji Temple, Xiaohe Park, and Gongchen Bridge. Hop on and off as you please to discover the city’s hidden gems.

“We wanted to create a more immersive way to experience the canal,” explains Han Jun, Deputy Manager of the Group’s Canal Cruise Branch. “Traditional cruise products often limit you to one stop, but with the One-Day Pass, you can hop on and off at any pier throughout the day, transforming your experience from a simple hour-long cruise to a half-day or even a full-day adventure exploring Hangzhou. It’s a fantastic way to immerse yourself in the city’s vibrant culture and discover the unique charm of the Grand Canal firsthand.” Flowing for over a thousand years, the Grand Canal has nurtured vibrant historical districts along its banks. The pass offers a perfect way to explore these hidden gems, including Dadou Road, Xiaohezhi Street, and Qiaoxizhi Street.

The One-Day Canal Pass is valid from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM and offers an incredible price at just 80 yuan for adults and 40 yuan for children (between 1.2 and 1.5 meters tall). You’ll also receive complimentary green tea and a memento while you cruise. “The new pass sells like a hit. We’ve been selling an average of 300 passes a day during peak season,” says Han Jun.

The success of the One-Day Pass should also be owed in part to the opening of the second channel. Data from the first quarter of this year shows that over half of the ships were using the new channel, passing through the Babao Ship Lock. This transformation has allowed the Hangzhou section of the canal to flourish as a premier tourist route, all while safeguarding its rich heritage of water transportation. “Our goal is to keep improving the visitor experience,” says Yu Lingfeng, Director of the Water Transportation Department at Hangzhou Highway and Port Management Service Center. “We’re working to improve tourism services and infrastructure along the scenic routes of Qiandao Lake, Xin’an River, Fuchun River, and Qiantang River.”