Cultural route heritage as mobility narrative: the world heritage inscription of China’s Grand Canal

China's Grand Canal, once a vital link connecting southern rice-growing regions with northern political centers over a millennium ago, has been reimagined as a symbol of cultural heritage and mobility. This study highlights how the 'Dayunhe' section was rediscovered and transformed in value, reflecting China's shift from preserving 'cultural relics' to fostering a broader 'cultural market' tied to leisure and connectivity. The research also explores the Grand Canal's role in national narratives, including its alignment with initiatives like the Belt and Road Initiative, emphasizing its significance in binding populations to a shared national story while expanding domestic and international mobility. The analysis combines theoretical frameworks with empirical observations to illustrate how cultural route heritage serves as a narrative of movement and connectivity.

Sigley, G., An, Z., Song, C., & Su, X. (2024). Cultural route heritage as mobility narrative: the world heritage inscription of China’s Grand Canal. International Journal of Heritage Studies, 30(9), 997–1009. https://doi.org/10.1080/13527258.2024.2363824