The literature and art are the most direct and positive elements of culture. Actually, cultural study and literary and artistic study are closely connected with each other, stimulate each other, and may achieve positive interaction. Ancient novels are treasures of literature and art, and they are also important resources for studying water culture. As an outstanding representative of the artistic achievements of Chinese ancient novels, San Yan Er Pai contains vivid and colorful factors of water culture, which is regarded as the researching object of water culture. It not only expands the research scope and explores research methods, but also increases the interest of cultural appreciation. This paper starts with the world situation, customs and civic culture of San Yan Er Pai, and shows the myriad kinds of water culture by the myriad strange stories. It deepens the ideological, artistic and ornamental features of the novel through water culture. Then it reveals that the study of water culture should absorb advantages from all kinds of cultures.