Guangji Bridge
Guangji Bridge, also known as Xiangzi Bridge, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of China's four famous ancient bridges. Built over 800 years ago during the Southern Song Dynasty, this remarkable structure combines a pontoon bridge, beam bridge, and pavilion bridge designs. It features 18 boats connected by 24 stone beams that can be disconnected to allow ship passage, showcasing ingenious ancient Chinese engineering.
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Xiangqiao District, Chaozhou, Guangdong, China
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Guangji Bridge (Xiangzi Bridge): A Unique Ancient Engineering Marvel
Guangji Bridge, also known as Xiangzi Bridge, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of China's four famous ancient bridges. Built over 800 years ago during the Southern Song Dynasty, this remarkable structure combines a pontoon bridge, beam bridge, and pavilion bridge designs. It features 18 boats connected by 24 stone beams that can be disconnected to allow ship passage, showcasing ingenious ancient Chinese engineering. It is a living bridge that continues to serve as a vital link and a major tourist attraction in Chaozhou.
What to See and Do
Walk Across the Bridge: Experience the unique design by walking across its different sections. You'll transition from solid stone arches to a floating pontoon section, and then to another solid section with pavilions.
Observe the Pontoon Section: The most distinctive feature is the central pontoon section, made of 18 boats. During certain times of the day, these boats are separated to allow larger vessels to pass through, a fascinating demonstration of ancient engineering.
Pavilions on the Bridge: The bridge features 24 pavilions, each with its own unique design, serving as rest stops and viewpoints. These pavilions are beautifully illuminated at night.
Night Illumination: Guangji Bridge is spectacularly illuminated at night, creating a magical scene as it reflects on the Han River. The light show is a must-see.
Guangji Gate Tower: The bridge connects directly to the Guangji Gate Tower on the eastern bank, which is also beautifully preserved and illuminated at night.
Han River Views: Enjoy panoramic views of the Han River, the ancient city walls, and the surrounding cityscape from the bridge.
Best Time to Visit
The bridge is suitable for visiting year-round. Evenings are highly recommended for the spectacular night views and the light show. Check the schedule for the pontoon bridge opening and closing times if you wish to see that specific operation.
How to Get There
Guangji Bridge is located in Xiangqiao District, Chaozhou, along the Han River. It is easily accessible by local buses and taxis from Chaozhou city center. It's a central landmark and a great starting point for exploring the ancient city.
Travel Tips
Wear comfortable shoes: You'll be doing a lot of walking on the bridge and its approaches.
Allow ample time: Plan for at least 1-2 hours to walk across the bridge and appreciate its features, and more if you wait for the pontoon opening.
Photography: The unique design and night illumination offer excellent photo opportunities.
Toll Fee: There is a small fee to walk across the bridge.
Related attractions
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Stone Archway Street is famous for its concentration of ancient memorial arches honoring virtuous officials, filial sons, and chaste widows. These intricately carved stone structures, dating from the Ming and Qing dynasties, showcase the exceptional craftsmanship of Chaozhou stone carving. The street offers both architectural interest and cultural insights into traditional Confucian values and social recognition systems.
Jiadi Lane
Jiadi Lane is a historic street lined with well-preserved traditional residences of wealthy merchants and officials from the Ming and Qing dynasties. The narrow lane features exquisite examples of Lingnan architecture with ornate wood carvings, stone sculptures, and decorative brick patterns. Walking through this living museum offers insights into the lifestyle of Chaozhou's elite during imperial times.
Guangji Bridge
Guangji Bridge, also known as Xiangzi Bridge, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of China's four famous ancient bridges. Built over 800 years ago during the Southern Song Dynasty, this remarkable structure combines a pontoon bridge, beam bridge, and pavilion bridge designs. It features 18 boats connected by 24 stone beams that can be disconnected to allow ship passage, showcasing ingenious ancient Chinese engineering.
Shangshui Gate Tower
Shangshui Gate Tower was historically used to control water access to the northern section of Chaozhou's ancient city. This well-preserved Ming Dynasty structure demonstrates traditional Chinese military engineering with its sturdy stone foundations and brick construction. The gate offers panoramic views of the Han River and surrounding cityscape from its upper levels.
