Open Travel Guide
  1. Home
  2. Destinations
  3. China
  4. Jiangsu
  5. Yangzhou
  6. Attractions
  7. Ancient Grand Canal and Three Bends (古运河与三湾)

Attractions · Jiangsu, Yangzhou

Ancient Grand Canal and Three Bends (古运河与三湾)

  • CategoryLandmark And Scenic Area
  • Duration1-2 hours
  • AdmissionAdult Free; canal cruises about CNY 80-120 (~$11-17) · Child Free
  • Rating★ 4.5
  • Price$
  • TransportDidi about CNY 25-35 (~$4-5) from the old city

The Three Bends, a series of canal curves south of Yangzhou, were shaped by Ming-era engineers to ease flow and protect the city from flood. The area has been developed as a wetland park and cultural zone with walkways, a lighthouse and the Grand Canal Museum. It is one of the best places in China to see the canal as a working river, with barges and ferries moving through the bends.

A stretch of the Grand Canal where the waterway bends three times, with a wetland park and the museum at its edge.

The Three Bends, a series of canal curves south of Yangzhou, were shaped by Ming-era engineers to ease flow and protect the city from flood. The area has been developed as a wetland park and cultural zone with walkways, a lighthouse and the Grand Canal Museum.

It is one of the best places in China to see the canal as a working river, with barges and ferries moving through the bends.

Practical information for Ancient Grand Canal and Three Bends (古运河与三湾) · Last updated September 2026
Admission Adult Free; canal cruises about CNY 80-120 (~$11-17) · Child Free
Hours Open access daily; park about 06:00-18:00
Typical visit 1-2 hours
Best time Late afternoon
Getting there Didi about CNY 25-35 (~$4-5) from the old city
Address Sanwan Scenic Area, Tangwang Subdistrict, Guangling District, Yangzhou / 扬州市广陵区汤汪街道运河三湾风景区

Good to know

Best for
photographers, cyclists

Location

Sanwan Scenic Area, Tangwang Subdistrict, Guangling District, Yangzhou / 扬州市广陵区汤汪街道运河三湾风景区

32.3540, 119.4290 View on map

Highlights

  • Canal barges
  • Lighthouse and wetland
  • Next to the Grand Canal Museum
  • Evening cruises

Tips for visiting

  • Walk the east bank to see the bends and the lighthouse
  • Pair with the museum next door
  • Take the night canal cruise from the Dongguan Street pier for lights
  • Cycling is allowed on the canal paths

When to visit

Late afternoon

Accessibility

Flat paths and mixed surfaces; steps at the lighthouse.

Frequently asked questions

Are boats available?

Yes, cruises depart from the Dongguan Street and Sanwan piers.

Is it free?

Yes, apart from boats.