Nanchang Street after dark

Begin near Nanchan Temple and the illuminated Miaoguang Pagoda, then follow the canal south along Nanchang Street. The street is free to access all day, but late afternoon gives you daylight for the architecture and evening light on the water.

Continue to Qingming Bridge, where the Bodu River meets the Grand Canal. This is the strongest point for looking along the historic water lanes. If you still have energy, continue toward Dayao Road and the ancient kiln sites that once supplied bricks along the canal.

Allow two to three hours at an unhurried pace. The route is about wandering rather than completing a checklist; stop for food or coffee where it looks inviting, and expect the central section to be busiest after dark.