Wuzhen and Beijing-Hangzhou Grand Canal 2

In the 19th century, the rising of sea transportation and the opening of the Jinpu railway gradually reduced the role of the Beijing-Hangzhou Grand Canal. The economy of Wuzhen at that time was developed quite well, and it was the most popular commercial town in the north of Zhejiang province. Because the Grand Canal winds around the town at 120 degrees, Wuzhen West was once the gateway to Wuzhen, and the commerce was flourishing by that reason. It can be said that Wuzhen arose from Wuzhen West, and Wuzhen West was developed by the Grand Canal.