As the southern starting point of the Grand Canal, Hangzhou, Zhejiang province, has focused on developing the canal for urban residents and tourists. New cultural landmarks like the Grand Canal Hangzhou Steel Park, the Xiling Wulin Art Museum and the Beijing-Hangzhou Grand Canal Museum are emerging as city highlights.

The dialogue has been held for six consecutive annual editions since 2019.

This year's event debuted the "Beijing-Hangzhou Dialogue" Grand Canal mascot, Hexi, the Grand Canal collectible toy, Shuiyun'er, and the China Grand Canal Cultural and Museum Guide.