Outdoor attractions
From the Liangma River, water flows eastward into the Bahe River, and eventually reaches Tongzhou, where the river broadens noticeably.
Exit the subway at Beiyunhexi Station, cross the road, and you're at the south entrance of Yunhexi'an (Canal West Bank).
There are no walls, no railings, not even an obvious scenic area gate, as the path unfolds naturally along the riverbank. Walking along the river, one sees families strolling, elderly residents exercising, and young couples sitting on the steps, simply watching the water.
"The biggest change is that we've completely torn down the 'invisible wall' between people and the Grand Canal," says Du Qianhui, a guide for the Canal West Bank area.
It used to be an ordinary riverbank road, separated from the water by green belt. Now, all rest stations and shops have been moved to the street-facing side, and the waterfront area is completely open to pedestrians.
Two large viewing platforms break the visual barrier, becoming prime spots for watching dragon boat races. Outdoor standardized basketball courts host regular street basketball events and street dance competitions. Themed vending carts and open-air movies operate regularly.
Du observes that visitor spending follows a "gradual immersion" pattern.
"Most people don't head straight for a specific shop. They're first drawn by the river view, grab a riverside coffee, and then walk along taking photos," she says.
Eventually, they're attracted by a restaurant terrace, decide to stay for dinner, and afterward they might continue walking, perhaps buying dessert or stopping at a bar, she adds.
Walking north along the west bank, visitors will see the famous Randeng (Burning Lamp) Buddhist pagoda.
Historical accounts show that when ancient boatmen on grain transport vessels saw this pagoda, they knew they had arrived in Tongzhou.
Now, visitors to the pagoda area can experience more than just ancient architecture and photography. Guided tours explain the history, intangible cultural heritage displays showcase local crafts, and the cultural origins of Confucianism, Buddhism and Taoism — coexisting at this site — are explored.
In the eastern courtyard of the Confucian temple, visitors can see timber destined for imperial construction that sank in the canal centuries ago. These centuries-old logs, accompanied by detailed explanations, offer a tangible connection to the hardships of waterborne transport and the wisdom of ancient craftsmen.
To get closer to the Grand Canal, one can board a cruise boat from the Caoyun Terminal. As the boat rocks gently with the waves, the scenery transitions from forested green spaces to urban buildings and cultural districts.
Be sure to drop by the Grand Canal Museum, which chronicles the history of the canal and Beijing from ancient times to the present day.
"If you still have energy afterward, order a cocktail, let the music wash over you or stop by a bar or bistro," Du says with a smile.
The paddleboards and coffee along the Liangma River and the vibrant life on the Canal West Bank are just a slice of Beijing's close relationship with water.
The city will open a 42-kilometer continuous navigation route this year, according to local authorities.
Eventually, residents will be able to trace the northern edge of Beijing's downtown area all the way to the canal in Tongzhou, taking in the diverse landscapes of the capital.
