Tianjin to create replica of ancient canal section

Tianjin will invest a hefty 5.2 billion yuan ($797.2 million) to create a replica of the thriving Yangliuqing section of the Beijing-Hangzhou Grand Canal as it was 1,000 years ago, the city announced late last week.

It will build what it called the Grand Canal Yangliuqing Park, totaling 187 hectares in Yangliuqing county, which is known historically for its woodblock printing and water transportation.

The park will be divided into three areas, including a historical town, Yuanbao Island and a cultural township.

The area will cement the cultural heritage of the Beijing-Hangzhou Grand Canal, which began development in the Spring and Autumn Period (770-476 BC).

Bai Fengxiang, director of Tianjin's Xiqing district, Tianjin, said, "The park will not transform into a for-profit property development project." It will use international design teams to develop into a national-level landmark, he said.

After completion, the park is expected to lure more than 3 million visitors and generate revenues of more than 3 billion yuan annually, he said.