Grand Canal

I flow through big cities and quiet green fields. I am a long, winding water road. Colorful boats bob on my back, like little ducks swimming in a line. They float along as I stretch and wiggle for a very, very long way. I am not a regular river that was always here. People made me. I am the Grand Canal, a special river in China made by people.

I was built a long, long time ago. Around the year 605, a very important ruler named Emperor Yang had a great idea. He wanted to connect the big Yellow River in the north with the even bigger Yangtze River in the south, so they could be friends. Lots and lots of people worked together to build me. With shovels and strong hands, they dug and dug, scoop by scoop, making a path just for me. It was hard work, but they did it. Soon, boats could carry yummy rice and shiny treasures from one end of China to the other. I felt so happy to help everyone share their good things.

I am still busy today. Big boats and little boats still float on my back, carrying important things to cities and towns. I love to feel them glide along. In the year 2014, I was given a very special prize. I was named a treasure for the whole world to love and protect. I am so proud. I am happy that I can still connect people and places, like a long, watery hug that brings everyone closer together.