The Grand Canal, which has flowed for thousands of years, has served not only as the political, economic, and cultural lifeline of ancient China but also as a unique symbol of belief for the people living alongside it. Water-taming artifacts of various forms are often found along the banks of the canal. Their origins are closely linked to the long-standing efforts of local officials and residents to combat water-related disasters. As an artificial waterway, the canal’s navigability was vital to the nation’s economy and livelihood, endowing these artifacts with a significance far beyond that of mere spiritual symbols. Historically, local officials and residents crafted and placed these objects along the banks, not only as spiritual offerings for favorable weather but also as practical tools for monitoring water levels. By observing the position of these objects relative to the water level, people could track changes in water conditions in real time, providing critical insights for canal management. These silent water-taming artifacts reflect the ancient wisdom of regulating the relation between humans and water, embodying both a reverence for nature and the proactive ingenuity needed to address challenges.