Available languages
5 hours 30 minutes
Mobile ticket
The Grand Canal, an ancient artery that once connected imperial capitals, offers a unique journey through Hangzhou's vibrant history. Your adventure starts at the Beijing–Hangzhou Grand Canal Museum, followed by a local craft experience that brings the canal's rich past to life. We continue to stroll through the Qiaoxi Historic District, where the spirit of trade and community thrives in bustling markets. The day concludes with a serene boat ride along the Grand Canal to visit the tranquil Xiangji Temple nestled by the waterway.
Highlights:
• Explore the Beijing–Hangzhou Grand Canal Museum
• Walk through Qiaoxi Historic District and Xiaohe Historic Street, where canal-side trade culture is still alive in the markets
• Hands-on local craft experience rooted in the Grand Canal's living heritage
• Glide along the Grand Canal by boat to Xiangji Temple, a Buddhist monastery tucked beside the waterway
• Intimate small group experience with Brivience's interactive culture discovery games
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
The tour begins at the Beijing–Hangzhou Grand Canal Museum, and then we will take part in a hands-on local craft experience while exploring how the Grand Canal connected economies throughout history.
XiaoHe ZhiJie
The route continues on foot through the Qiaoxi Historic District and Xiaohe’s canal-side streets, where former trading quarters have evolved into vibrant neighborhoods and local markets.
Local Craft Experience
Guided Walking Tour
Museum and Temple Visit
Grand Canal Boat Ticket
Local market visit
4 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
justinhZ8141YZ,May 17, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
Experience: 4/5 ⭐️ This guided tour took us through the grand canal linking Beijing-Hangzhou. It was very interesting, not something you hear about on travel guides out of China (even I didn’t know about it despite living in Beijing for half a year). The canal itself is beautiful, with plenty of historical architecture and nice photo spots. We also went through very cute old streets and a market. Staff: 5/5 ⭐️ The best part about this guided tour. You get to experience Hangzhou with an attentive local guide who perfectly explains everything about the area, and knows all the best local spots (non touristy). The guide for the day was Bai and she was really amazing. She led us through the museum and gave us special insights about the history of the grand canal (that you can’t get on your own). She was so attentive and helpful with any questions we had about the area or Hangzhou or even China in general. A completely seamless China travel experience, not like how it normally is. Atmosphere: 5/5 ⭐️ Hangzhou is a super beautiful city, but it can get really packed (especially around popular west lake touristy areas). I really enjoyed this tour in large part because it takes you to quiet areas away from hordes of tourists. It was nice to see a lot of young people hanging out and around the area! Overall, really enjoyable chill tour, I had a lot of fun with the guide and would definitely revisit if I’m back in Hangzhou.
459ericjanv,May 17, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
Thanks to a wonderful inside to the history of the Grand Canal and the Gongshu area. Enjoyed the local noodles, handicraft and the boat tour. The temple was better compared to other temples I have experienced before. What I liked most about this tour though, was the interaction and connection with guide Vi. It felt more personal and the additional “missions” were fun. Will definitely recommend them for anybody wanting to experience Hangzhou with a local and learn about more insight stories.


ellamM8848GR,May 6, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
This was an interesting tour, the activities connected well to what you learned along the way. From painting a traditional umbrella to exploring the market, it was a really fun and engaging experience. I had a great time painting the umbrella, even though I’m not very good at more artistic things lol. I also got to try all the yummy food from the market at the recommendation of the guide as to what was best. Very fun experience and would definitely come back, most definitely worth it to take this tour.








J9306BFrosamariac,Apr 10, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
It was a great experience the guide was so kind and friendly and we saw a lot of amazing places. The local guide love the place where he lives you can fell and we felt so peaceful to stay there and listen the stories. We took also the bicycles and it was so funny! He really take care of us in everything even the food 😊 Super tour very recommended !
Operated by Brivience