Although much of China suffers from a shortage of water, Beijing is blessed with an h2o surplus. You don't even need to visit the Grand Canal - the longest and oldest canal in the world, running from Beijing to Hangzhou – to enjoy a scenic boat ride or peaceful stroll along a river. Arteries of water run throughout the city.
While Beijingers have to endure honking horns and irate drivers on the road, the city's waterways provide a peaceful escape from the noise and rush of urban crowds. With China's growing economy, I wouldn't be surprised to see people start buying private boats in the future. When that happens, the city will need take creative measures to protect the environment of her waterways. But for now, we'll just enjoy the tranquility of walking or sitting along peaceful, relatively clean riverbanks.
People who come to Beijing from Guanzhou may wonder why there are no water taxis here. To me, water taxis seem like an obvious way to avoid traffic jam, but like private boats, they could pose environmental hazards to Beijing's rivers. But if they can come up with a low-noise, environmentally friendly water taxi, I'll probably be one of the first to take advantage of this traffic-free shortcut across the city.
Some of the walkways along Beijing's rivers and canals have been made into charming public parks. Elderly people are seen doing morning exercises. Couples romantically walk alongside riversides holding hands. Families enjoy a peaceful getaway. Others sit on benches reading or chatting with friends. Workers walk along picking up papers and trimming shrubs to maintain the park's natural beauty.
One of the best ways to take in Beijing's waterways is a riverboat tour. Although not practical for everyday transportation, riverboats provide a unique view of the city. They run from the Beijing Exhibition Center, through the zoo and Purple Bamboo Park, finally docking atthe Summer Palace. You can also enjoy tour boat rides from Yuyuantan to Kunming Lake and fromBeihai Parkto Yinding Bridge. These historic river rides are a must for first-time visits to Beijing.
If you prefer a smaller private boat, whether a rowboat, paddleboat or electric motor boat, you won't be able to travel across town by river, but they are a relaxing way to enjoy some of the city's smaller lakes without being packed in with tourists. You can rent these little boats at Houhai Lake,Chaoyang Park, Purple Bamboo Park and many other public parks.
When crowded subways, traffic jams and stressful offices irritate you, it's time to make plans for a relaxing boat ride or peaceful stroll along one of Beijing's boundless waterways.
