For thousands of years, China’s Grand Canal has driven economic growth and cultural exchange among the cities it passes through.

A cultural event kicked off on the evening of Aug 9 at Heyuan Garden in Yangzhou in celebration of the Qixi Festival.

In a recent cultural exchange initiative, 54 Portuguese teachers and students journeyed to the Shiqiao community in Yangzhou, where they were captivated by the art of Yangzhou rod puppetry.

In midsummer, the Qilihe Park in Yangzhou, Jiangsu province, becomes a breathtaking oasis as water lilies burst into full bloom.

Nestled along the serene banks of the ancient Grand Canal lies Pishi Street, a provincial-level tourist and leisure hub in Yangzhou.