Core Insights - The Yangzhou China Grand Canal Museum ("Zhongyun Museum") has become a popular cultural destination, receiving nearly 200,000 visitors during the National Day and Mid-Autumn Festival holiday, and hosting over 300 cultural events [1] - The museum is a significant achievement in the construction of the Grand Canal Cultural Belt and the Grand Canal National Cultural Park in Jiangsu, enhancing the cultural tourism profile of Yangzhou [1][2] - President Xi Jinping has emphasized the importance of protecting and utilizing the Grand Canal culture, providing guidance for Jiangsu's efforts in this area [1][4] Museum Overview - Opened in 2021, the Zhongyun Museum is the first modern comprehensive museum dedicated to the Grand Canal, covering approximately 80,000 square meters and showcasing the canal's historical and cultural significance [2] - The museum started with a "zero collection" approach and has since gathered over 16,000 artifacts, including bronze, jade, ceramics, and more, reflecting the rich history of the Grand Canal [2][3] Exhibitions and Visitor Engagement - The museum features permanent and temporary exhibitions that explore various aspects of Grand Canal culture, with current exhibitions focusing on historical cities along the canal [3] - As of now, the museum has welcomed nearly 15 million visitors and is set to achieve national first-class museum status by May 2024 [3] Cultural Innovation and Recognition - The Zhongyun Museum has received multiple awards for its innovative approaches, including recognition from UNESCO for its educational initiatives [4] - The museum offers a range of activities, including cultural workshops and lectures, enhancing the visitor experience and promoting cultural heritage [4] Broader Cultural Initiatives - Since the 14th Five-Year Plan, a network of Grand Canal-themed museums has emerged in Jiangsu, contributing to the preservation and promotion of canal culture [5] - Jiangsu is actively working on a comprehensive framework for the development of the Grand Canal Cultural Belt and National Cultural Park, emphasizing cultural protection and sustainable development [6][7]

Core Insights - The construction of the Grand Canal National Cultural Park is a significant initiative aimed at preserving cultural heritage while promoting economic development in Jiangsu Province [2][4][8]. Group 1: Cultural Heritage and Preservation - The Grand Canal is recognized as a valuable cultural heritage that needs to be systematically protected and utilized, with Jiangsu being a key area for this initiative [2][4]. - The Jiangsu section of the Grand Canal, spanning 790 kilometers, is considered the most remarkable part of the entire canal, rich in cultural relics and historical significance [2][4]. - The establishment of the Grand Canal Cultural Tourism Development Fund in 2019 has facilitated numerous projects focused on cultural heritage protection and environmental restoration [4][8]. Group 2: Economic Development and Tourism - The Grand Canal serves as a vital economic artery, connecting various economic zones and enhancing trade and transportation efficiency, with over 20,000 vessels navigating this section annually [8][9]. - The promotion of cultural tourism along the Grand Canal has led to the development of historical districts and cultural attractions, making it a popular destination for visitors [5][7]. - The "Yunzhai Qianqiu" Grand Canal theme tourism route launched in 2024 aims to integrate various cultural and historical sites along the canal, further boosting the local economy [7][8]. Group 3: Community and Environmental Impact - The transformation of areas along the Grand Canal, such as the Three Bay Ecological Cultural Park in Yangzhou, reflects a commitment to improving the living environment and enhancing community well-being [3][10]. - Initiatives like the "Waste-Free Canal" project focus on ecological restoration and improving the quality of life for residents along the canal [10]. - The Grand Canal's historical significance is being revitalized through community events and cultural activities, fostering a sense of connection and pride among local residents [6][10].