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On Jan 5, an event featuring expats exploring the Beijing-Hangzhou Grand Canal unfolded at Ginkgo Swan Lake in Jiaxing, Zhejiang province. Foreign bloggers from the Yangtze River Delta visited Jiaxing and Zhejiang, sharing their perspectives and narratives of the historic Grand Canal.

Situated in Zhejiang province, adjacent to Shanghai, Jiaxing is a city with a rich canal culture. The Beijing-Hangzhou Grand Canal, coursing through its landscapes, seamlessly links numerous cities within the Yangtze River Delta. As the world's longest artificial waterway, dating back to the Spring and Autumn Period (770-476 BC), the canal reflects the past and the future of China.

The first group of foreign bloggers delved into the heart of Jiaxing's culture and scenery by taking in treasures such as Nanhu Lake, the Jiaxing section of the Beijing-Hangzhou Grand Canal, ancient towns, and farmer paintings.

Popular Shanghai blogger, Hua Bobo (Arash Estilaf), explored Jiaxing for the first time, captivated by the historical significance of the Grand Canal. Estilaf plans to continue sharing his findings, stating, "Next, I will share Jiaxing's food and scenery through social media, and let more overseas friends know and fall in love with Jiaxing."

Alex Bushroe, an American who has lived in China for 15 years, echoed the sentiment of enchantment with Jiaxing and its Jiangnan — meaning the southern part of the lower Yangtze River Delta — water town charm. "I have been to Wuzhen in Tongxiang and Xitang in Jiashan. The unique charm of the Jiangnan ancient town made me linger," he remarked.