Bridges
Bridges
Chinese Name:保山霁虹桥
English Name: Jihong Bridge in Baoshan City
Baoshan Jihong Bridge in Longyang District travel guide introduces the main attractions, entrance tickets booking, The best time to visit, How to Get there, the highlights, facts, history, photos, weather, accommodation, visiting routes, travel tips, tour maps of Jihong Bridge in Baoshan.
Chinese Name:施甸县隧通桥
English Name: Suitong Bridge in Shidian County, Baoshan
Baoshan Suitong Bridge in Shidian County travel guide introduces the main attractions, entrance tickets booking, The best time to visit, How to Get there, the highlights, facts, history, photos, weather, accommodation, visiting routes, travel tips, tour maps of Suitong Bridge in Baoshan.
Chinese Name:保山市芒宽双虹桥
English Name: Shuanghong Iron Bridge in Baoshan City
Double Rainbow-shaped Bridge or Shuanghong Iron Bridge (双虹桥) is located in Mangkuan Town(芒宽) of Longyang District, Baoshan City, Yunnan Province.
During the Qianlong years, Yongchang Zhifu Chen Xiaosheng built this bridge to solve the difficulties of people crossing the river on both sides of the Nu River.
Located on the Nujiang River, Mangkuan Township, Longyang District, Baoshan City, Yunnan Province, Chen Xiaosheng, Yongchang Zhifu, Yongchang 54 years (1789), rebuilt in the Republic of China 12 years (1923), an important bridge on the southwest silk road. It was announced as a cultural relics protection unit in Yunnan Province in 1993.
Baoshan has two Shuanghong Bridges. One is located in Heshun Ancient Town in Tengchong, and the other is located on the Nu River in Mangkuan Township, Longyang District. Do not confuse the two Shuanghong Bridges. here the Shuanghong Bridge we introduce is recommended by Shuanghongqiao on the Nu River.
Built in the Kangxi period of the Qing Dynasty, it is an important traffic road on the Nu River. It is still the only way for people on both sides of the Straits to cross the river. It is also a provincial cultural relics protection unit. When you drive the Nu River Grand Canyon, you can go over and see it on the side of the road.
Chinese Version: https://www.qqx.com/gonglve/145766992415031296
Chinese Name:姚安县李贽桥
English Name: Lizhi Bridge in Yaoan County, Chuxiong
Chuxiong Lizhi Bridge in Yaoan County travel guide introduces the main attractions, entrance tickets booking, The best time to visit, How to Get there, the highlights, facts, history, photos, weather, accommodation, visiting routes, travel tips, tour maps of Lizhi Bridge in Chuxiong.
Chinese Name:禄丰县五马桥
English Name: Wuma Bridge in Lufeng County, Chuxiong
Chuxiong Wuma Bridge in Lufeng County travel guide introduces the main attractions, entrance tickets booking, The best time to visit, How to Get there, the highlights, facts, history, photos, weather, accommodation, visiting routes, travel tips, tour maps of Wuma Bridge in Chuxiong.
Chinese Name:姚安县地索吊桥
English Name: Disuo Suspension Bridge in Yaoan County, Chuxiong
Chuxiong Disuo Suspension Bridge in Yaoan County travel guide introduces the main attractions, entrance tickets booking, The best time to visit, How to Get there, the highlights, facts, history, photos, weather, accommodation, visiting routes, travel tips, tour maps of Disuo Suspension Bridge in Chuxiong.
Chinese Name: 禄丰县星宿桥丰裕桥
English Name: Fengyu Bridge in Lufeng County, Chuxiong
Fengyu Bridge, located in Xingxiu Park and spanning the Luoci River in Lufeng County, Chuxiong Yi Autonomous Prefecture, Yunnan Province, was originally constructed during the Ming Dynasty’s Wanli era (1573-1620). It is a four-pier, five-arch stone bridge oriented north to south, with a length of 92 meters, a width of 8.1 meters, and a height of 9.5 meters. The bridge features arches of varying spans and is adorned with stone railings, lions, and other decorative elements. Fengyu Bridge, along with Xingxiu Bridge, is a notable example of Qing Dynasty bridge architecture in Yunnan and holds significant historical, architectural, and cultural importance. On March 5, 2013, it was listed as a key national cultural heritage site by the State Council of the People’s Republic of China.
Fengyu Bridge, together with Xingxiu Bridge, represents a significant example of mid-to-late Qing Dynasty bridge architecture in Yunnan. It is among the larger ancient stone arch bridges in the region, featuring advanced design, high craftsmanship, and rich inscriptions. These bridges hold substantial historical, architectural, and cultural importance.
On March 5, 2013, Fengyu Bridge and Xingxiu Bridge were designated as key national cultural heritage sites by the State Council of the People’s Republic of China.
Chinese Name: 禄丰县星宿桥(星宿桥和丰裕桥)
English Name: Xingsu Bridge (Xingfu Bridge and Fengyu Bridge) in Lufeng County, Chuxiong
Xingsu Bridge and Fengyu Bridge are located in Xingxu Park and over the Luoci River in Lufeng County, Chuxiong Yi Autonomous Prefecture, Yunnan Province. They were originally built during the Ming Dynasty’s Wanli period (1573–1620).
Xingsu Bridge comprises three parts: a stone arch bridge, a wooden archway, and a stone archway with a curved top. The main stone arch bridge runs east to west and is constructed using large red sandstone blocks. It features a six-pier, seven-arch pointed stone bridge, measuring 118 meters in length, 10 meters in width, and 10 meters in height, with individual arch spans ranging from 9.8 to 10 meters. Fengyu Bridge is a four-pier, five-arch round stone bridge running north to south. It is 92 meters long, 8.1 meters wide, and 9.5 meters high, with piers measuring 19.6 meters long and 5.6 meters wide. The five arches have varying spans of 8.7 meters, 9.3 meters, 9.8 meters, 9.3 meters, and 8.7 meters from south to north. The bridge has stone railings on both sides, with two stone lions at the northern end and a kneeling figure at the southern end. Originally, there was a pavilion at the southern end, which was demolished in 1958. Xingsu Bridge and Fengyu Bridge are representative of the bridge construction in Yunnan during the late Qing Dynasty. They are among the larger ancient stone arch bridges in Yunnan, with advanced design, high craftsmanship, and rich inscriptions, making them of significant historical, architectural, and cultural importance.
On March 5, 2013, Xingsu Bridge and Fengyu Bridge were listed as the 7th batch of National Key Cultural Relics Protection Units by the State Council of the People’s Republic of China.
In the 40th year of the Ming Wanli era (1612), due to the frequent floods of Xingsu River during spring and summer, which caused danger and loss of life, Lufeng County’s magistrate, Xiang Zhaolin, requested permission to build a bridge 30 zhang long and 4 zhang wide (according to the Qing Kangxi “Yunnan Fu Zhi”).
By the 42nd year of the Ming Wanli era (1614), the Yongfeng Bridge was completed, commonly referred to as Xingsu Bridge due to its location across the Xingsu River.
In the 39th year of the Qing Kangxi era (1700), the 42nd year (1703), and the 46th year (1707), Xingsu Bridge suffered three collapses and was repaired each time.
In the 51st year of the Qing Kangxi era (1712), the bridge was repaired, and a Dragon King Temple was constructed with three iron oxen placed on the bridge.
In the 5th year of the Qing Yongzheng era (1727), the bridge was destroyed by floods, leaving only one arch of the original bridge. For over a hundred years, the bridge was not repaired, and during winter and spring, it was crossed by floating planks, while in summer and autumn, small boats were used, leading to occasional disruptions and accidents.
In the 5th year of the Qing Daoguang era (1825), Yang Anyuan, a former governor of Zhaoqing in Guangdong and a native of Langjing in Lufeng County, was deeply moved by the state of the bridge and donated 3,000 taels of silver (he actually donated 1,000 taels) to fund its repair. The whole community contributed as well, raising a total of 12,000 taels of silver. The bridge was completed after six years of reconstruction.
After the founding of the People’s Republic of China, Xingsu Bridge was used as a highway bridge.
In 1986, due to long-term heavy vehicle traffic, the second and third piers slightly sank, and several cracks appeared in the bridge structure.
In 1988, Lufeng County Highway Division repaired the bridge.
In 1998, Xingsu Park was completed, and the bridge was no longer used as a highway bridge. It was transferred to the Lufeng County Park Management Office for maintenance and is now situated within the park.
Fengyu Bridge began construction during the Ming Wanli era (1573–1620).
In the 10th year of the Qing Tongzhi era (1871), the bridge was destroyed by floods. To fund its repair, an additional tax of two-fifths was levied on the salt taxes from He, Yuan, and Yong wells. However, successive officials mismanaged the funds, and repairs were delayed.
In the 17th year of the Qing Guangxu era (1892), Zou Xingde of the Hejing Supervisory Office oversaw the repair. According to the “Lufeng County Annals,” the repair was urgently needed due to its importance in salt transportation. The project commenced in January of the 17th year and was completed by March of the 18th year. The new bridge was 35 zhang long, spanning 20 zhang across the river, with four water stone piers, 12 zhang long, and 1 zhang 4 feet high. The bridge was adorned with pairs of large and small lions and elephants, and the northern end had five stone tablets while the southern end had a pavilion.
After the founding of the People’s Republic of China, Fengyu Bridge was used as a highway bridge.
In 1958, the pavilion at the southern end of the bridge was demolished. The temple next to the monument was allocated to villagers and later rebuilt and demolished.
In 2008, a new highway bridge was constructed between Xingsu Bridge and Fengyu Bridge according to the development plan of Lufeng County. After the new bridge was completed, Fengyu Bridge was no longer used for highway traffic.
Xingsu Bridge consists of a stone arch bridge, a wooden archway, and a stone archway with a curved top. The stone arch bridge runs east to west and is built from large red sandstone blocks, featuring a six-pier, seven-arch pointed stone bridge. It measures 118 meters in length, 10 meters in width, and 10 meters in height, with individual arch spans ranging from 9.8 to 10 meters.
The wooden archway is located on the east side of the bridge. It has four columns and three doors, measuring 12 meters wide and 10 meters high. It features four large columns arranged in a straight line, with the central column higher than the adjacent ones, creating a “凸” shape. It supports the beams and complex thirteen-step brackets and is topped with a gabled roof covered with glazed tiles. The central wooden plaque bears the name “Xingsu Bridge,” written in regular script by the then representative of Yunnan and Guizhou, Yili Bu, who later signed the Treaty of Nanking on behalf of the Qing government. The back of the plaque is inscribed with “Xingsu Bridge” by the then governor of Yunnan and Guizhou, the renowned Qing Dynasty scholar Ruan Yuan. The archway’s two central columns stand on large lotus bases, supported by huge drum-shaped stones at the front and back, which feature exquisite dragon, tiger, and qilin carvings.
Stone Archway
The stone archway is located on the west side of Xingsu Bridge. It has ten columns and nine doors, measuring 12.3 meters wide and 9.19 meters high, with a base thickness of 2.56 meters. The archway is designed with a “凸” shape, and the top mimics a nine-ridge roof style. The stone surface is adorned with relief carvings representing a wooden structure’s brackets. It features a central stone tablet inscribed with the characters “Kun Wei Yong Zhen” (维永镇). Below this are ten large square stone columns with recessed spaces between them, forming doorways. The doorways contain large blue stone tablets, with the central tablet measuring 3.3 meters high and 0.95 meters wide, and the side tablets measuring 2.6 meters high and 0.9 meters wide. The entire stone archway stands on a 0.9-meter-high lotus base, flanked by a pair of stone lions.
Stone Arch Bridge
Fengyu Bridge is a four-pier, five-arch round stone bridge, oriented north to south. It measures 92 meters in length, 8.1 meters in width, and 9.5 meters in height. The piers are 19.6 meters long and 5.6 meters wide. The five arches vary in span, measuring 8.7 meters, 9.3 meters, 9.8 meters, 9.3 meters, and 8.7 meters from south to north. The bridge features stone railings on both sides. At the northern end, there are two stone lions, while at the southern end, there is a kneeling figure. The pavilion at the southern end was demolished in 1958.
Significance
Xingsu Bridge and Fengyu Bridge represent significant achievements in ancient bridge construction in Yunnan. They are among the largest ancient stone arch bridges in the region, showcasing advanced design, high craftsmanship, and rich inscriptions. Their preservation reflects the historical, architectural, and cultural importance of bridge construction in Yunnan.
Protection
On March 5, 2013, Xingsu Bridge and Fengyu Bridge were officially listed as the 7th batch of National Key Cultural Relics Protection Units by the State Council of the People’s Republic of China.
Chinese Name:禄丰县星宿桥
English Name: Xingsu Bridge in Lufeng County, Chuxiong
Xingsu Bridge, also known as “Ximen Bridge” (West Gate Bridge), spans the Luyi River (also called Xingsu River) just outside the west gate of Lufeng City, Chuxiong. The name “Xingsu” comes from the river’s deep and mysterious waters, which were said to resemble scattered stars. The bridge was once part of the “Eight Scenic Wonders of Lufeng,” specifically known for the view called “Star Reflection on the Dam Bridge.” The bridge features a large stone archway on the west side, adorned with carvings and inscriptions dating back to 1832. A pair of majestic stone lions guards both ends of the bridge, adding to its grand and powerful appearance. In 1983, Xingsu Bridge was recognized as a provincial-level cultural heritage site.
Xingsu Bridge is a seven-arched stone bridge that stretches 96.5 meters in length and 9.8 meters in width. The bridge is flanked by solid railings on both sides, standing 0.6 meters high and 0.4 meters thick. The boat-shaped platforms at each end are 18 meters long and 4.3 meters wide. The entire structure is constructed from red sandstone blocks, which are tightly bound with a mixture of lime and sticky rice mortar, providing remarkable strength and durability.
On the eastern side of the bridge, there is a glazed, dragon-spined wooden archway with four pillars and three gates. This archway features elaborately carved eaves and brackets, with stone drums placed on either side. Intricate carvings of dragons and tigers further enhance the structure’s beauty. The inscription “Xingsu Bridge” was written by Ruan Yuan, Grand Minister of Yunnan and Guizhou, in 1830. The western side of the bridge also features a large stone archway and stone inscriptions detailing the bridge’s restoration in 1832.
Xingsu Bridge played a vital role as a gateway connecting Kunming to western Yunnan, serving as a critical point along the Sichuan-Yunnan postal route. This strategic significance is reflected in many of the stone carvings and couplets found on the bridge. One notable couplet reads:
“Look up to measure the stars and constellations; the Milky Way stretches like a rainbow beyond the sky.
Survey the vast sea of stars; even the city walls submit, and tributes come from the five regions.”
This couplet not only captures the grandeur of Xingsu Bridge but also highlights its importance in connecting Yunnan with the interior regions of China. The bridge’s combination of structures, carvings, and supplementary buildings makes it a rare and unique example of a multi-arched stone bridge in Southwest China.
According to the Xingsu Bridge Restoration Inscription, the site originally featured a bamboo pontoon bridge. The construction of the stone arch bridge began in 1615 during the 43rd year of the Ming Wanli reign. However, due to recurring flood damage, the bridge underwent multiple restorations during the Kangxi period (1662-1722), with three rebuilds and collapses. Another reconstruction was attempted in 1727 during the Yongzheng reign, but the bridge collapsed again. The current bridge and its surrounding structures were completed between 1825 and 1832 during the Daoguang reign.
The stone inscriptions on the bridge describe the history of its construction and feature couplets written by prominent figures of the time. The stone lions placed at each end of the bridge, with their distinct and powerful postures, contribute to the beauty and harmony of the overall architectural design. Together, the bridge, archways, inscriptions, and carvings form a perfect and unified architectural ensemble.
Chinese Name: 华宁县金锁桥
English Name: Jinsuo Ancient Bridge in Huaning County, Yuxi
The Golden Lock Bridge: A Historic Landmark in Huaining County The Golden Lock Bridge spans east-west across the Longdong River, located 7 kilometers south of Huaining County Town on the Nanningxi Highway. In the morning light, it seems veiled in a mysterious aura.
Built in 1745: A Testament to Qing Dynasty Engineering
Constructed in the Year Yichou of the Qing Dynasty in 1745, the Golden Lock Bridge stands as one of Yunnan Province’s largest single-arch stone bridges. It boasts dimensions of 37 meters in length, 14 meters in height, and 9 meters in width, with a clear span of 18 meters. The bridge deck sits 11.9 meters above the riverbed, showcasing a deck thickness of 2.1 meters.
280 Years of Endurance and Majesty
Having stood for 280 years, enduring centuries of wind and rain, the Golden Lock Bridge remains a majestic testament to resilience.
Elegant Pavilions and Inscriptions
Inside the bridge’s railing, two stone pavilions, Weituo Fang and Guanyin Ge, stand symmetrically spaced 6 meters apart. They serve both structural purposes and ornamental grandeur. Weituo Fang features three plaques on its eaves columns, with the central one reading “Divine Response in Three Provinces,” complemented by “Bright Moon” and “Clear Wind” on the left and right plaques, respectively. Guanyin Ge showcases a central stone plaque bearing the inscription “Merciful Crossing for All Beings,” with a poetic couplet engraved on its columns: “Dew persists, the emerald waters warm; clouds surge, the rainbow hues anew.”
Nature’s Embrace
Surrounded by stunning scenery, the Golden Lock Bridge is flanked to the east by the layered peaks of Cuiping Mountain and to the west by the winding hills of Xiangbi Ridge. Bamboo groves line its sides, gentle waters flow beneath, and lush trees provide shade along the banks.
The “Bathing Pond” Springs
At the bridge’s head stand towering stone walls, with two hot springs bubbling forth from its base. These springs were fondly known as the “Bathing Pond” in childhood days, lending their name to the village on the opposite hillside, eventually becoming popular as the “Elephant Nose Hot Springs” with tourism development starting in the late 1980s. Xianrendong Cave, once a small shop, holds cherished memories from childhood amidst this picturesque landscape.
Chinese Name:西畴县牛羊太平桥
English Name:Niuyang Taiping Bridge in Xichou County, Wenshan
Niu Yang Taiping Bridge, located in Xingjie Village, Laojie Village, Xichou County, Wenshan Zhuang and Miao Autonomous Prefecture, Yunnan Province, spans the Chouyang River. It was built in the 13th year of Emperor Qianlong of the Qing Dynasty (1748) and has been continuously maintained and repaired since then. The bridge features a sophisticated wooden beam covered gallery structure, showcasing unique craftsmanship. It is renowned as one of the finest examples of Zhuang-style covered bridges over the Chouyang River and stands as an important ancient bridge in Yunnan Province.
The Niuyang Taiping Bridge is located on the eastern side of Laojie Village in Xingjie Town, Xichou County, Wenshan Zhuang and Miao Autonomous Prefecture, Yunnan Province, spanning the Chouyang River.
The bridge was originally constructed in the 13th year of the Qianlong Emperor’s reign during the Qing Dynasty (1748). Over the years, it has undergone several repairs and reinforcements, but it remains in use to this day. The bridge is a wooden beam-covered corridor bridge, known for its intricate design and craftsmanship, making it the most significant wind and rain bridge along the Chouyang River and one of the most important ancient bridges in Yunnan.
The Niuyang Taiping Bridge is a prime example of Zhuang ethnic architecture, renowned for its grand scale and sophisticated design. It serves as a vibrant community hub where people gather during the day to rest, embroider, or fish, and in the evening, it becomes a place where elders recount stories and young people engage in singing contests.
The bridge’s name is tied to a local legend involving a bee king that terrorized the area by devouring livestock and children. The villagers sought help from the deity Zhou Meng, who burned the bee king alive with a mix of dry chili powder and hay at its cave entrance. The river was named Niuyang River after the livestock, and the bridge was named Niuyang Taiping Bridge in honor of the river. The river was later renamed Chouyang River in the late Qing Dynasty.
The bridge is likened to a rainbow on earth, embodying historical changes and cultural richness. Standing on the ancient bridge offers breathtaking views of lush peaks, vast rice fields, and sparkling waters below, evoking a sense of tranquility and exhilaration that leaves visitors deeply enchanted.
Chinese Name:永德遂通桥
English Name:Suitong Bridge in Yongde County, Lincang
The Suitong Bridge, also known as Chain Bridge locally called “Hulu Kou,” is a historic courier bridge leading to Zhenkang and beyond to Myanmar. The bridge spans north to south, suspended between cliffs by 10 iron chains. It stretches 30.8 meters in length, stands 8.5 meters tall, and is 2.5 meters wide. At each end of the bridge, there is a concrete pavilion. Outside the northern pavilion, three cliff inscriptions and two steles recording the bridge’s construction remain from its inception.
Since ancient times, it has been a vital corridor for trade between Yunnan and Myanmar, known as the “Ancient Gateway to the East of the River.” Notably, it was an essential route for the tea-horse trade in Yongde from ancient to modern times. Due to its unique location, spectacular design, and historical significance, it was once acclaimed as the “Number One Ancient Bridge of the Eastern River.”
According to inscriptions, in the winter of the 31st year of the Guangxu reign (1905 AD), Xie Yujun, the Prefect of Yongchang, proposed the bridge’s construction. Local gentry from Shidian Township, including Yang Chaoran, Zhao Duan, Li Baoren, Duan Xiaomeng, and Yin Shan, formed a group to organize its construction. Construction began on the 6th day of the 11th month of the 32nd year of Guangxu (1906 AD), and it was completed on the 26th day of the 2nd month of the 34th year of Guangxu (1908 AD). Impressed by the bridge’s soaring iron span and scenic beauty, Xie Yujun inscribed the words “Suitong Bridge” and “Stabilizing Disorder and Pacifying the Frontier” on the northern cliff, along with a poetic expression, and wrote an article chronicling the bridge’s construction to commemorate the contributors.
After liberation, the People’s Government allocated funds for the repair of Suitong Bridge, converting the old bridgehead buildings into brick and concrete structures. On August 20, 1988, the Mengboluo Bridge was completed 15 meters upstream from Suitong Bridge, marking the highway connection between Shidian and Yongde counties. Despite its cessation of use, the ancient bridge remains preserved, juxtaposed with the new bridge, symbolizing both historical witness and modern transportation.
On the Jinsha River section between Da’an Township in Yongsheng County and Qihe Township in the ancient city district of Lijiang, Yunnan Province, there is a 150-year-old iron cable bridge—Jinlong Bridge. For centuries, it has witnessed the prosperity of commerce between Lijiang and Yongsheng, historical changes, and transportation evolution, serving as a key pass on the Tea Horse Road connecting Sichuan, Yunnan, and Tibet.
Over time, with societal development, Jinlong Bridge has gradually faded from people’s view, becoming a historical and cultural heritage and a national key cultural relic protection unit.
Located near Zili Village in Da’an Township, Yongsheng County, Jinlong Bridge is also known as Zili Bridge. It spans the Jinsha River Gorge, 75 kilometers east of Yongsheng County, 45 kilometers west of Lijiang City, and adjacent to Heqing County in the south. It serves as a crucial transportation hub for the three counties, with imposing mountains, deep valleys, and an impressive natural landscape.
Looking up, you’ll see towering peaks and sharp rocks piercing the sky. From the river to the mountain tops, the elevation difference is 200 meters, creating a breathtaking view of “clouds touching the sky at the mountain tops and the great river flowing like a silver thread.”
Standing on the bridge, the swaying surface feels like a moving swing. Looking down, the rushing river flows turbulently, with waves crashing against the banks, creating a thrilling and awe-inspiring scene.
Historically, the location of Jinlong Bridge has always been a critical passage. Before the bridge was built, locals could only cross the river using small wooden boats or leather rafts, which were unsafe due to the narrow and rapid river. Accidents were frequent.
Eventually, the Naxi, Yi, Lisu, Han, and other ethnic groups invented the zipline. They tied large bamboo ropes to giant rocks on both sides of the river and used zipline tubes to cross, leading to the area being known as Bamboo Rope Crossing or Zipline Crossing. However, the ziplines were also dangerous, and any slip could result in falling into the river. This prompted the construction of a safer bridge.
The exact construction date of the first Zili Bridge is unknown. According to the “Yunnan General Annals” from the Ming Wanli period, there was an ancient bamboo suspension bridge over the river. This bridge was unstable and required new bamboo ropes every one to two years. Later, people replaced the bamboo bridge with an iron cable bridge. The current Zili Iron Cable Bridge was built in the second year of the Guangxu reign (1876), funded by Jiao Zonghan from Heqing, who donated 100,000 taels of silver. The bridge took four years to complete.
According to the “Newly Compiled Yunnan Annals,” Jiao Zonghan built the bridge after escaping an attack at Jinsha River. He vowed to construct the bridge if he survived, and later fulfilled his promise by funding the construction. The west end of the bridge has an inscription commemorating his contribution.
Plaques on both ends of the bridge record the details of its construction: “In the fifth year of Guangxu, with the imperial bestowment of the Yellow Horse Jacket, Jiao Zonghan was appointed Governor of Yunnan and named the bridge Jinlong Bridge.” The name “Jinlong Bridge” is prominently displayed in gold characters on a black background, showing grandeur and historical charm. The plaques still hang at the bridge’s entrance.
Jinlong Bridge has a span of 92 meters, a width of 3.5 meters, and a total length of 131.6 meters. It is supported by 18 hand-forged iron chains, each made of over 500 rings. Sixteen chains form the base, covered with wooden planks, and two chains on each side serve as handrails. Each chain is five inches wide and weighs over eight pounds, making the bridge a testament to the craftsmanship of the builders.
The bridge towers at both ends are constructed with six-sided stone slabs, forming massive piers with intricate carvings and solid construction. The towers feature stone block walls, ancient pine pillars, tiled roofs, stone steps, and thick wooden doors, serving as guard posts.
Building materials were transported manually, with iron chain rings made in the county towns and carried to the river. A mule could carry six rings, while a donkey could carry two, taking two days to reach the riverbank. The rings were then forged into seamless iron chains on-site, reflecting the immense effort and skill required for construction.
Jinlong Bridge’s west end is at Xiaojin’an Village in Qihe Township, Lijiang, once a relay station on the Tea Horse Road. The village is preserved and being developed into a traditional Naxi village for tourism.
Beyond Jinlong Bridge lies the Twelve Railings Slope, a winding path with breathtaking views of Lijiang. The bridge facilitated trade and cultural exchange among Yongsheng, Lijiang, and Heqing counties, becoming a vital route for merchants and travelers.
In 1982, the Liyong Highway was completed, with the modern Jin’an Bridge built five kilometers upstream, marking the end of Jinlong Bridge’s active use. However, it remains a historical monument, part of the Tea Horse Road, standing tall after 150 years of weathering, a testament to Yunnan’s rich cultural heritage.
Bridges
Chinese Name:保山霁虹桥 English Name: Jihong Bridge in Baoshan City Baoshan Jihong Bridge in Longyang District travel guide introduces the main attractions, entrance tickets booking, The best time to visit,...
Chinese Name:施甸县隧通桥 English Name: Suitong Bridge in Shidian County, Baoshan Baoshan Suitong Bridge in Shidian County travel guide introduces the main attractions, entrance tickets booking, The best time to...
Chinese Name:保山市芒宽双虹桥 English Name: Shuanghong Iron Bridge in Baoshan City Double Rainbow-shaped Bridge or Shuanghong Iron Bridge (双虹桥) is located in Mangkuan Town(芒宽) of Longyang District, Baoshan City, Yunnan...
Chinese Name:姚安县李贽桥 English Name: Lizhi Bridge in Yaoan County, Chuxiong Chuxiong Lizhi Bridge in Yaoan County travel guide introduces the main attractions, entrance tickets booking, The best time to...
Chinese Name:禄丰县五马桥 English Name: Wuma Bridge in Lufeng County, Chuxiong Chuxiong Wuma Bridge in Lufeng County travel guide introduces the main attractions, entrance tickets booking, The best time to...
Chinese Name:姚安县地索吊桥 English Name: Disuo Suspension Bridge in Yaoan County, Chuxiong Chuxiong Disuo Suspension Bridge in Yaoan County travel guide introduces the main attractions, entrance tickets booking, The best...
Chinese Name: 禄丰县星宿桥丰裕桥 English Name: Fengyu Bridge in Lufeng County, Chuxiong Overview Fengyu Bridge, located in Xingxiu Park and spanning the Luoci River in Lufeng County, Chuxiong Yi Autonomous...
Chinese Name:禄丰县星宿桥 English Name: Xingsu Bridge in Lufeng County, Chuxiong Overview of Xingsu Bridge Xingsu Bridge, also known as “Ximen Bridge” (West Gate Bridge), spans the Luyi River (also...
Chinese Name: 华宁县金锁桥 English Name: Jinsuo Ancient Bridge in Huaning County, Yuxi The Golden Lock Bridge: A Historic Landmark in Huaining County The Golden Lock Bridge spans east-west across...
Chinese Name:西畴县牛羊太平桥 English Name:Niuyang Taiping Bridge in Xichou County, Wenshan Niu Yang Taiping Bridge, located in Xingjie Village, Laojie Village, Xichou County, Wenshan Zhuang and Miao Autonomous Prefecture, Yunnan...
Chinese Name:永德遂通桥 English Name:Suitong Bridge in Yongde County, Lincang History and Significance The Suitong Bridge, also known as Chain Bridge locally called “Hulu Kou,” is a historic courier bridge...
Overview Chinese Name: 永胜县金龙桥 English Name: Jinlong Bridge in Yongsheng County, Lijiang On the Jinsha River section between Da’an Township in Yongsheng County and Qihe Township in the ancient city...
Don't assume you're restricted to the main hubs of Beijing and Shanghai, our tours can start from any city.
For your safety, please register with the Embassy.
Exchange some local currency for your trip
Start planning your tailor-made holiday to China by contacting one of our specialists. Once enquired, you’ll get a response within 0.5~23.5 hours.
Address: Building 4, Yifuyuan, Hehong Road, Xishan District, Kunming, Yunnan, China
Wechat/QQ: 270384698
Office Call: 86-18812220370
Email: Trip@YasoTrip.com
Facebook Page:
https://www.facebook.com/YasoTrip
Tel/WhatsApp: +8618088243690
Trip@YasoTrip.com
Daily: 9:00 am - 6:00 pm
Copyright © 2008 Yaso Trip. All rights reserved
Address: Building 4, Yifuyuan, Hehong Road, Xishan District, Kunming, Yunnan, China
Wechat/QQ: 270384698
Office Call: 86-18812220370
Email: Trip@YasoTrip.com
Facebook Page:
https://www.facebook.com/YasoTrip
Tel/WhatsApp: +8618088243690
Trip@YasoTrip.com