At the heart of Taizhou in the Jiangsu Province of the Chinese mainland, the Fengcheng River carries a story that spans centuries. Once an ancient moat protecting the city walls, this waterway has been reimagined as a modern urban water system.
Over recent years, local planners and engineers have transformed the Fengcheng River into a multi-functional corridor that balances heritage preservation with ecological health. Lush green banks, walking and cycling paths, and natural wetlands now sit alongside restored stone gates and historic bridges, offering residents and visitors a scenic route through the city’s past and present.
This renewal reflects a broader trend across Chinese mainland cities to integrate livability, sustainability, and cultural pride into rapid urban growth. Tailored water treatment, flood control upgrades, and smart monitoring ensure the river not only looks beautiful but supports clean water and safety. As part of a series exploring three cities through their historic moats, this first stop at Fengcheng River highlights how ancient infrastructure can inspire 21st-century innovation.
Reference(s):
Fengcheng River: Ancient city moat redeveloped as urban water system
cgtn.com
