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The Zhejiang East Canal Museum has become the latest Chinese water culture institution to join the Global Network of Water Museums (WAMU-NET), following the National Water Museum of China, the Yellow River Museum, and the Changjiang Civilization Museum, opening further opportunities for international exchange.

Zhejiang East Canal Museum receives its membership certificate from WAMU-NET. [Photo/Tide News]

The WAMU-NET, supported by UNESCO, was established in 2018 in Venice, Italy. Its mission is to promote the preservation, research, and dissemination of global water-related cultural heritage and to raise public awareness about the sustainable use of water resources. The network currently comprises over 120 member institutions across more than 40 countries, with around 10 members from China.

The Zhejiang East Canal Museum features a blend of modern architecture and the traditional charm of Jiangnan (a southern region of the Yangtze River in eastern China). [Photo/Tide News]

Located in Shaoxing's Zhejiang East Canal Cultural Park, Zhejiang East Canal Museum centers on the idea of “connecting rivers and seas, benefiting the world”, showcasing over 2,500 years of water culture in the Yue region (currently Zhejiang province), with exhibits including waterway steles and Yue kiln celadon artifacts. The museum also hosts cultural activities, including workshops on intangible cultural heritage and educational programs, and has welcomed over one million visitors since its opening in 2023.

An aerial view of the museum reveals its nearby waterways and ancient bridges. [Photo/Tide News]

With its inclusion in WAMU-NET, the museum is set to showcase Chinese water culture and management to the world, while drawing on advanced international practices. It also aims to deepen international cooperation in areas such as heritage preservation, science education, and water resources research, contributing to Shaoxing's efforts to advance the global development of water culture.