The Grand Canal, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, holds profound historical and cultural significance. Spanning over two millennia, the regions along the canal have developed into a vibrant cultural belt, where thriving trade and rich humanistic exchanges have given rise to an array of remarkable intangible cultural heritage (ICH) projects. These projects have become integral to the Grand Canal’s cultural resources and serve as an invaluable heritage of Chinese culture. They play a pivotal role in preserving, inheriting, and promoting traditional Chinese culture. This study examines 1,201 national-level ICH projects located across the eight provinces and municipalities along the Grand Canal cultural belt. The research employs ArcGIS spatial analysis technology and mathematical statistical methods to analyze the structural characteristics and spatial distribution patterns of different ICH types. Additionally, from a cultural ecology perspective, the study applies ecological sensitivity analysis, ecological suitability analysis, and the minimum cumulative resistance model to assess the feasibility of establishing ICH corridors.The findings from the study can be summarized as follows: (1) The ICH types along the Grand Canal cultural belt are comprehensive and distinctive, with significant variations in their structural distribution. Through kernel density analysis, it was found that the spatial distribution of ICH follows a general trend of "north-south concentration and central dispersion," forming a clear "two-core, two-vertical" distribution structure. (2) The analysis of ecological sensitivity, suitability, and minimum cumulative resistance reveals that the Grand Canal cultural belt possesses the potential to develop ICH corridors. Areas with medium to high suitability account for 74.39% of the total region, indicating favorable conditions for such developments. (3) Building upon the above findings, the study considers the value of ICH, the presence of tourism resources, and corridor construction guidelines. It proposes a multi-tiered, thematically diverse strategy for the development of ICH corridors, tailored to specific regional characteristics and cultural assets.This research provides valuable scientific insights and practical recommendations for promoting the holistic protection of ICH along the Grand Canal, safeguarding ecological environments, and informing the formulation of important regional strategies. By integrating perspectives on culture, ecology, and strategic planning, the study contributes to the sustainable development and comprehensive conservation of the Grand Canal’s cultural and natural heritage. The proposed strategies aim to enhance cultural preservation, boost regional tourism, and create a lasting legacy of cultural heritage for future generations.