Yunhe Sanwan Scenic Spot
Nestled along the historic Grand Canal in Yangzhou, Jiangsu Province, Yunhe Sanwan Scenic Spot is a UNESCO-recognized gem blending natural splendor with centuries-old cultural treasures. Renowned for its winding waterways, revitalized wetlands, and architectural marvels, this 5.8-square-kilometer park offers a tranquil escape into China’s hydraulic engineering legacy and modern ecological conservation.
Historical Overview
Ancient Canals: Dating back to the Sui Dynasty (581–618 AD), the site showcases the Grand Canal’s role as a lifeline for trade and cultural exchange.
2014 UNESCO Inscription: Recognized alongside the Grand Canal as a World Heritage Site, celebrating its significance in China’s economic and cultural history.
21st-Century Revival: Transformed from an industrial zone into an eco-cultural hub after 2014, featuring restored wetlands, bike paths, and museums.
Structural Layout
The scenic spot is divided into three thematic zones:
Ecological Restoration Area:Wetlands, reed marshes, and migratory bird habitats.
The 15.5-meter-tall “Three Bends Observation Tower” for panoramic canal views.
Cultural Heritage Zone:Shejian Museum: Showcases traditional canal architecture and tools.
Yangzhou China Grand Canal Museum (adjacent): A modern marvel with immersive canal exhibits.
Recreational Corridor:6-kilometer biking/jogging trails along the water.
Boat tours through the “Three Bends” section, named for its serpentine curves.
Major Attractions
Three Bends of the Grand Canal: The site’s signature S-shaped waterway, symbolizing harmony between humanity and nature.
Daming Temple Pavilion: A replica of an ancient watchtower offering sunset views over the canal.
Wetland Science Center: Interactive displays on biodiversity and conservation efforts.
Folk Culture Square: Open-air performances of Yangzhou opera and traditional music.
Suggested Itineraries
Half-Day Cultural Tour (3–4 Hours)
Morning: Shejian Museum → Wetland Science Center → Boat Tour (1 hour).
Afternoon: Daming Temple Pavilion → Folk Culture Square (live performance at 3 PM).
Full-Day Eco-Cultural Experience (6–7 Hours)
Morning: Bike along the Greenway → Three Bends Observation Tower → Picnic at Lotus Pond.
Afternoon: Yangzhou China Grand Canal Museum → Sunset Boat Ride.
Evening: Dinner at a canal-side restaurant (try Wen Si Tang Bao, a local steamed bun specialty).
Ticket Purchase
Free Entry: To the main scenic spot (open 6 AM–10 PM).
Museum Tickets:Yangzhou China Grand Canal Museum: Free (reserve online 3 days in advance via WeChat).
Boat Tours: ¥60–80/person (45-minute cruise).
Guided Tours: ¥120–200/group (2 hours, English/Chinese available).
Transportation
By Subway: Line 1 to “Wenhe Road Station” (Exit 3), then a 15-minute taxi ride.
By Bus: Routes 82, 40, or 56 to “Sanwan Park Stop.”
By Taxi: Direct to “Yúnhé Sānwān Jǐngqū”
By Car: Parking at East Gate (¥5/hour).
Best Time & Tips
Avoid Crowds:Peak Hours: 9 AM–11 AM (weekends).
Best Times: 7–8 AM (sunrise) or 4–6 PM (sunset).
Quietest Days: Weekdays (Tuesdays–Thursdays).
Weather: Spring (Mar–May) and autumn (Sep–Nov) for mild temperatures and blooming lotuses.
Essentials:Download the “Yangzhou Tourism” app for AR maps and audio guides.
Wear comfortable shoes (10,000+ steps recommended).
Bring sunscreen/hats for daytime visits.
Prohibited Items: Drones, loudspeakers, and littering.
