Guangzhou's greenways were implemented in 2010, driven by Wang Yang, the then-governor of Guangdong. The Donghaochong canal is a centrepiece of the greenways project and has revitalized a formerly degraded and unattractive area.
In this section of the greenway, with nearby stairs leading down from Huanghu Lu, the canal was paved over even after the initial greenway implementation in 2010. The pavement was replaced for the greenway, but the canal was still buried. In phase 2 construction the canal was opened up around 2015 and landscaping improvements implemented.
The design allows for people to pass by at the upper level or come down to the water level, crossing via stepping stones. It's also possible to ride a bike along here, and doing the Donghaochong series by bike is a good option.