The Grand Canal (1987)
A sweeping 1987 TVB historical epic tracing the collapse of the Sui Dynasty and the dawn of the Tang Dynasty across 60 dramatic episodes.
The Grand Canal - Series Information
- Original Title: 大運河
- First Air Year: 1987
- Last Air Year: 1987
- Type: TV Series
- Genres: Drama
- Episode Runtime: Average runtime per episode (42 minutes)
- Number of Seasons: 1
- Number of Episodes: 60
- Status: Ended
- Original Language: CN
- Spoken Languages: Mandarin, Cantonese
- First Air Date: March 9, 1987 (Canada - PG), March 9, 1987 (South Korea - 15)
- Networks: TVB Jade
- Production Companies: TVB
- Production Countries: Hong Kong, China
The Grand Canal - Plot
The drama is a story that details the fall of the Sui Dynasty, and what it took to lead to the eventual rise of the Tang Dynasty.
Where to Watch The Grand Canal
Looking for where to watch The Grand Canal?
Compare all viewing options available in your region on JustWatch ↗
The Grand Canal - Cast & Crew
Main Cast
- Tony Leung Chiu-wai
- Idy Chan Yuk-Lin
- Felix Wong Yat-Wah
- Sean Lau Ching-wan
- Margie Tsang Wah-Sin
- Michael Tao Tai-Yu
- Lawrence Ng Kai-Wah
- Rebecca Chan
- Kwan Ching
- Bao Fang
The Grand Canal - FAQs
What historical period does The Grand Canal cover?
The Grand Canal spans one of Chinese history's most turbulent transitions — the collapse of the Sui Dynasty and the eventual founding of the Tang Dynasty. The series dramatizes the political upheaval, power struggles, and key figures that shaped this pivotal era in early 7th-century China.
Who are the main actors in The Grand Canal?
The series features a stellar ensemble cast including Tony Leung Chiu-wai, Idy Chan Yuk-Lin, Felix Wong Yat-Wah, Sean Lau Ching-wan, Margie Tsang Wah-Sin, Michael Tao Tai-Yu, Lawrence Ng Kai-Wah, Rebecca Chan, Kwan Ching, and Bao Fang — many of whom became iconic figures in Hong Kong television.
Is The Grand Canal based on a true story?
The Grand Canal is rooted in real history. The Sui Dynasty's fall and the Tang Dynasty's rise are well-documented chapters of Chinese history, and the series draws on historical figures and events from that era. Like most historical dramas, it blends factual foundations with dramatized storytelling for narrative impact.
Where can you stream The Grand Canal?
Streaming availability for The Grand Canal varies by region. As a 1987 TVB production, it may be accessible through platforms specializing in classic Hong Kong and Chinese-language content. Check JustWatch for the most up-to-date viewing options available in your area.
How many episodes does The Grand Canal have?
The Grand Canal comprises 60 episodes across a single season, with each episode running approximately 42 minutes. The generous episode count allowed the series to explore the sweeping historical narrative in considerable depth, covering key events from the Sui Dynasty's decline through the Tang Dynasty's emergence.
What role did Tony Leung Chiu-wai play in The Grand Canal?
Tony Leung Chiu-wai portrayed 虬髯客 (Qiu Ran Ke), a legendary swordsman figure from classical Chinese literature. The role was an early showcase for Leung's dramatic range, years before he became one of Hong Kong cinema's most celebrated actors and a multiple award winner at Cannes.
What network originally aired The Grand Canal?
The Grand Canal originally aired on TVB Jade, Hong Kong's dominant free-to-air television channel, in 1987. Produced by TVB, the series was part of the broadcaster's tradition of ambitious historical costume dramas that drew massive audiences across Hong Kong and the broader Chinese-speaking world.
What are some shows similar to The Grand Canal?
Fans of The Grand Canal may enjoy other sweeping historical productions such as The Demi-Gods and Semi-Devils (1997), another classic TVB epic rooted in Chinese martial arts lore, or Ambitions (2019) for its intricate period drama storytelling. Offspring (2010) and Doctor Thorne (2016) also offer richly crafted period narratives.
More About The Grand Canal
Explore further details and databases for The Grand Canal.