6Bangkok, Thailand
These waterways go back to the 18th century and were dug to protect the city’s borders. Expanded through the 19th century, the canals still serve as a source of irrigation and transportation. The main still existing canal is the 11+ mile long Khlong Saen Saeb which runs east to west across Bangkok.
Taking a boat ride here is said to be the best way to see the historical sites and shopping centers too. The city’s five major floating markets are Amphawa, Bang Nam Pheung, Damnoen Saduak, Khlong Lat Mayom, and Taling Chan.
Aveiro, Portugal, is quite more beautiful than many on the list
I all 10, no mention of Germany and it’s many rivers that traverse close to castles. I’ve heard the views are fantastic. Had hoped it would have been included herein, but also, I suppose it did not rate high enough on your scale of the ‘best’. Too bad.
Yea, I liked it, but it doesn’t have a very big canal network. But I certainly beats Birmingham in terms of beauty.
Yanagawa Japan is reknowm for its canals. Yanagawa is popular with Japanese tourists because of its 470 km of wide canals. Yanagawa riverboats, called “donkobune”, are used to take tourists around the city. In 1987 a video documentary was created by Studio Ghibli about these canals and their restoration. Yanagawa is the birthplace of Kitahara Hakushu, a Meiji era poet and writer of children’s songs. An annual three-day festival is held every November in Yanagawa complete with poetry readings, fireworks, music, and a great number of evening boat rides.
Yes, it is a popular place with Japanese tourists. It’s a noteworthy locale and undoubtedly would have made the list had the list been longer. Thanks for your support and your comment!