Lingqu Canal, located in Xing'an County southwest of Guilin, is one of the oldest and most significant ancient canals in the world. Excavated during the Qin Dynasty (221-206 BC), it has an impressive history that spans over two millennia. The canal stretches for 36.4 kilometers, connecting the Xiang River, a tributary of the Yangtze River, with the Li River in Guilin. Its historical importance, impressive engineering, and picturesque scenery make it a popular destination for both history enthusiasts and nature lovers.

In 2012, Lingqu Canal was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Sites tentative candidate, and it is celebrated as a "Pearl of Ancient World Water Conservancy Architecture."

Features

Lingqu Canal is divided into two sections: the South Canal and the North Canal. The South Canal stretches 33.15 kilometers, while the North Canal adds an additional 5 kilometers. The canal features a mix of natural karst formations and man-made structures, showcasing the genius of the Qin people. The canal's waters are clear and vibrant, surrounded by lush landscapes, ancient trees, traditional pavilions, bridges, and historic relics, offering visitors a glimpse into the cultural heritage of ancient China.

One of the notable features of the canal is its dam, which was constructed to prevent the canal's waters from overflowing into the Xiang River, along with an ingenious system of "canal eyes" to manage water flow during both the dry and flood seasons.

History

Lingqu Canal was ordered by the First Emperor of China, Qin Shi Huang, to aid in his military conquests during the unification of China. Construction began in 214 BC under the guidance of the architect Shi Lu, who was appointed by the emperor. The canal was intended to serve as a water highway, facilitating the movement of troops and supplies to the south.

Although its primary purpose was military, the canal also played a vital role in facilitating trade and communication between central China and southern regions, connecting the Yangtze and Pearl River basins. Over the centuries, Lingqu Canal has withstood the test of time and continues to be an integral part of the local culture.

Today, it stands as a testament to ancient Chinese engineering, its waters now flowing peacefully through the rural landscapes of Guilin. The canal has been remarkably well-preserved, with many of its original structures still in place, making it one of the best-preserved ancient water conservancy projects in the world.

Entrance Tickets

• Ticket Price: CNY 55 per adult (children taller than 1.2 meters).
• Child Ticket: CNY 30 for children under 1.2 meters in height.
• Boat Ride: CNY 80 per person for a boat tour along the canal.
• Opening Hours: 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM daily.

Location and Address

Lingqu Canal is located in Xing'an County, approximately 84 kilometers northeast of Guilin city.

• Address: Shuangling Rd, Xing'an County, Guilin, 541300, Guangxi, China.

How to Get There (Transportation)

From Guilin to Xing'an

• By Train: There are high-speed bullet trains running from Guilin Railway Station to Xing'an North Railway Station. The journey takes around 30 minutes. Trains run frequently, with departures starting around 10:00 AM and the last train leaving at 10:00 PM. The ticket price ranges from CNY 19 (second class) to CNY 30 (first class).
• By Bus: Buses depart from Guilin Bus Station and Guilin North Bus Station to Xing'an Bus Station. The journey takes around 1.5 hours, and the ticket price is approximately CNY 22.

From Xing'an to Lingqu Canal

• By Taxi: The distance from Xing'an North Railway Station to Lingqu Canal is about 12 km, and it takes approximately 20 minutes by taxi.
• By Bus: Bus No. 17 runs from Xing'an Bus Station to the Lingqu Canal scenic area.

Travel Tips

• Best Time to Visit: The best seasons to visit Lingqu Canal are during Spring, Summer, and Autumn, particularly from April to October. The weather is mild, and the lush greenery and blooming flowers enhance the scenic beauty. Summer is ideal for enjoying the cool waters of the canal.
• Recommended Visit Duration: Plan for 1 to 3 hours to explore the area, including a boat ride along the canal. If you plan to visit the Xing'an Waterway or explore other historic sites, allow extra time.
• Safety: Visitors are advised to watch their belongings closely, especially near the water. When taking the boat ride, ensure that children are supervised at all times.
• Food: If you're hungry, try the Guilin Rice Noodles—a local specialty, as Xing'an is the origin of this famous dish.
• Photography: Bring your camera to capture the traditional architecture, lush landscapes, and clear waters. The canal's picturesque surroundings make for excellent photo opportunities.

Lingqu Canal Facts

• Excavation Date: Built in 214 BC during the Qin Dynasty.
• Length: 36.4 km in total, with the South Canal accounting for 33.15 km and the North Canal extending 5 km.
• Cultural Heritage: In 2012, Lingqu Canal was added to the UNESCO World Heritage Sites tentative list.
• Significant Sites: The Ancestral Temple of Four Wise Men commemorates the canal's builders, and the Flying-Over Stone remains a famous monument along the canal.

Major Attractions at Lingqu Canal

Xing'an Waterway

Xing'an Waterway is a charming commercial street along the Lingqu Canal, with ancient bridges, pavilions, and sculptures that vividly depict the history and culture of the area. The street is lined with old houses and traditional buildings, offering visitors an immersive experience of the local way of life.

Ancestral Temple of Four Wise Men

The Ancestral Temple of Four Wise Men honors key figures in the canal's construction and upkeep, including Shi Lu (the chief architect) and General Ma Yuan. This temple, dating back to the Yuan Dynasty, holds an interesting sight where an ancient poplar tree is gradually devouring an old monument.

Dam of Qin

The Dam of Qin is an ancient structure designed to regulate the flow of water from the Lingqu Canal into the Xiang River. Spanning 3.15 km, the dam features "canal eyes" that allow floodwater to be drained while ensuring that dry season water overflows to irrigate farmland.

Flying-Over Stone

The Flying-Over Stone, standing 4 meters high and 20 meters long, is a mysterious stone perched on the Qin Dam. The stone has inscriptions dating back to the Song Dynasty, making it an important historical site in the Lingqu Canal area.

Ancient Bridges

Lingqu Canal is home to numerous ancient bridges, each with its unique architectural style and history. These bridges, often centuries old, provide a scenic and historical connection between the two sides of the canal.

Leisure Boat Ride

Visitors can take a leisurely boat ride along the canal, enjoying the calm, emerald waters, surrounded by lush greenery and historic structures. The boat ride offers a peaceful way to experience the beauty of the canal while listening to traditional music.

How to Get to Lingqu Canal

• From Guilin: Travel by high-speed train or bus to Xing'an County, followed by a short taxi ride or bus journey to the canal.
• By Taxi: From Xing'an North Railway Station, it takes around 20 minutes by taxi to reach Lingqu Canal.

Best Time to Visit

Spring, Summer, and Autumn are the best seasons to visit. The weather is pleasant, and the vibrant natural surroundings are perfect for outdoor exploration. Summer, in particular, is ideal for water-related activities and enjoying the coolness of the canal.

Lingqu Canal is not only a historical engineering marvel but also a place where visitors can connect with the deep cultural heritage of China's past. Whether you're exploring its ancient relics, cruising its tranquil waters, or strolling along its historic pathways, Lingqu Canal offers an enriching and memorable experience for all.