The construction of the Grand Canal was commenced in the Sui Dynasty period (605 to 616 A.D.). From Beijing to Hangzhou, the Grand Canal is 1794 kilometers long. Joining the Haihe, Huanghe, Huaihe, Changjiang and Qiantang Rivers, the Grand Canal created a bountiful agricultural region and served as a major transportation artery between north and south. Its magnificence is often compared to that of the Great Wall of China. .

The Grand Canal plays a great role in the economic and social life of Wuxi by facilitating shipping, irrigation, fishing and water regulation and nourishing a flourishing civilization in Wuxi. There are numerous historical sites along the canal, such as Gujie Town, the most prosperous ancient rice market; the Divine Light Pagoda, which has a history of 1,000 years; and the Qingmin Bridge, a magnificent stone arch bridge built in ancient times.

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