The Museum of Grand Canal Culture will open to the public on the afternoon of December 27.

The Museum of Grand Canal Culture, also known as the Capital Museum East Branch, is a significant new public cultural facility in Beijing Municipal Administrative Center. It is located northwest of the Central Green Forest Park and adjacent to Beijing Performing Arts Center and Beijing Library.

The museum will highlight the close connection between Beijing and the Grand Canal in celebration of its opening. Focusing on the people, the water and the city, the opening event will present a series of blockbuster exhibitions, including the "Historical and Cultural Exhibition of Beijing and the Grand Canal", "Beyond the Canal – Immersive Experience Exhibition", and the "Image Exhibition of the Construction and Development of Beijing Municipal Administrative Center", among others. The exhibition comprises ordinary displays, themed exhibitions, temporary exhibitions, and open displays.

In addition, the museum will launch four major themed activities after its opening, including the "Voice of the Canal" traditional Chinese art show, the "Star of the Canal" creative gathering, the "Canal Theater" performing arts week, and the "Canal Appointment" public welfare month.

Five main themed social education programs, including those on the Grand Canal's culture, the passing down of time-honored brands, intangible cultural heritage, Tongzhou regional culture, and ethnic unity, will be successively launched with the museum's public opening. These events, primarily geared toward kids, families, and adults, will promote historical and cultural awareness while showcasing Beijing's history.

Beijing's Grand Canal Museum will have longer hours of operation. Following the first day of operation, it will open every day from 10:00 to 20:00 and close on Mondays. Free and no-reservation services will be offered, including free but time-specific guided tours, public inquiry desks, storage lockers, water dispensers, nursing rooms, and accessible elevators for the convenience of the public.

(Source: The Beijing News)