张维为《这就是中国》第314期：“运河之都”兴盛的文化密码

Core Viewpoint - The Grand Canal serves as a vital cultural carrier of the Chinese nation, and understanding it helps to comprehend Chinese culture, with Huai'an being a key hub city for this cultural journey [1][3]. Group 1: Historical Significance - The Grand Canal has been a crucial transportation route for over 2,500 years, linking the Yangtze and Huaihe river systems, which established Huai'an as an important transportation hub [3][4]. - During the Ming and Qing dynasties, Huai'an was recognized as one of the four major cities along the canal, playing a central role in grain transportation and canal governance [4][5]. - Huai'an has two UNESCO World Heritage sites and five heritage points, accounting for approximately one-seventh of the total area of the Grand Canal's World Heritage sites in China [4][5]. Group 2: Cultural Heritage - Huai'an is home to various intangible cultural heritage items, including Huaihai Opera and Huai Opera, with six projects listed as national-level intangible cultural heritage [5][6]. - The city has been recognized as a "City of Gastronomy" by UNESCO in 2021, highlighting the unique characteristics of Huaiyang cuisine, which embodies a blend of southern and northern culinary traditions [5][6]. Group 3: Modern Development - Huai'an has transformed its transportation network from a single waterway to a multi-modal system, including road, rail, water, and air transport, enhancing its status as a major inland port [8][9]. - The city has established three major industries worth over 100 billion, transitioning from a canal hub to a regional growth pole [9][10]. - Huai'an has implemented ecological initiatives, such as reducing sulfur oxide emissions by 65% after completing green modern shipping projects, showcasing a balance between ecological preservation and economic development [9][10]. Group 4: Cultural Preservation and Innovation - The local government has prioritized the protection of canal cultural heritage, launching specific regulations and plans to ensure its preservation and utilization [22][24]. - Huai'an's cultural heritage is not static but dynamic, actively integrated into the daily lives of its residents, making it a living part of the community [24][25]. - The city has developed a cultural corridor along the canal, enhancing tourism and cultural engagement while preserving historical significance [21][26].