| Time | Before the Ming Dynasty | Ming and Qing Dynasties | The Republic of China | After the founding of PRC The reform and opening up | From the reform and opening up to 2010 | After 2010 |
| Functions | Moat Drainage canal | Drainage and supply canal Caomi Lan | Living river Water traffic | Transportation Household by the river | Pollution discharge Dilapidation | Drainage Watching and entertainment |
| Construction situation on both sides | Open countryside on both sides | No construction | Covered with self-constructed houses | Buildings on both sides become dense gradually | Large-scale construction, many high buildings rise | Restore the environment on both sides, and increase green space |
| Type of urban public activity | None | None | Water traffic and waterborne trade Leisure activity and fair along the river | Leisure activity along the river Fair along the river | Fade away | Revive original activities Develop some new activities. |
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