Grand Canal Museum is on its way to Yangzhou

An artists' impression of the Grand Canal Museum [Photo/yznews.com.cn]

Bids for the construction of the Grand Canal  Museum – its provisional name – have been tendered and the project is expected  to start construction in late September, according to local media on Aug  20.

The museum, covering  a total area of 80,000 square meters -- 50,000 sq m above ground, 30,000 sq m  underground – will adopt the shape of a giant ship and feature sail design  elements. It will boast several theme exhibition halls and functional areas,  which aim to integrate protection of cultural relics with science research  exhibitions and also be a great experience for visitors. 

Zhang Jinqiu, from the Chinese Academy of  Engineering, is head of the project’s general planning and  construction. 

Zhang said that the new facility  was  designed to have the perfect combination of historical culture and modern  civilization. 

The architect said it would successfully achieve the integration of  national symbols and regional characteristics and seek overall balance between  its individual architecture and the environment.