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Anping Bridge, the longest existing ancient stone bridge in China and a masterpiece of ancient bridge architecture, is located across the bay between Anhai Town in Jinjiang City, Fujian Province, and Shuitou Town in Nan'an City. It is known as "the longest bridge in the world." The bridge is 2,070 meters long, with a deck width ranging from 3 to 3.8 meters. It has 361 piers. These piers are constructed of granite slabs stacked horizontally and vertically in three different shapes: rectangular, single-sided boat-shaped, and double-sided boat-shaped. The single-sided boat-shaped pier has one pointed end and a squared-off end, and is designed for use in shallower harbors. The double-sided boat-shaped piers, with their pointed ends for drainage, are designed for use in wide, fast-flowing main harbors.
The Wuli Bridge Ecological Wetland Park (with a lake and an island) has been built. It is located next to the Wuli Bridge, with pavilions and gravel paths built around it, vegetation added, and water bodies regulated. The overall environment has been greatly improved. It is a good place for Shuitou residents to take a walk after dinner and has become an emerging landscape in Quanzhou.
Subtropical monsoon climate;
Suitable for all seasons, best in spring and autumn
It is recommended to play for about half an hour
free
All day
Anping Bridge, also known as the "Old Bridge" in Quanzhou, is one of the oldest and longest ancient bridges in China, dating back to the Song Dynasty (12th century). It is a significant cultural landmark in Fujian and is renowned for its historical architecture and engineering. The bridge has witnessed centuries of history and is an important part of the region’s cultural heritage.
Anping Bridge is located in Quanzhou, Fujian Province, near Anping Town. You can reach it by taxi or bus from the center of Quanzhou. Walking from Anping Old Street to the bridge takes about 10 minutes. There are also local buses that connect the bridge with other parts of Quanzhou.
The bridge is open year-round, as it is a public historical site. The best time to visit is during the spring and autumn months, when the weather is mild. Early mornings or late afternoons offer fewer crowds and a better experience for photography.
There is no entrance fee to walk across Anping Bridge itself, but nearby attractions like Anping Fort and temples may have separate fees. Tickets for these can be purchased on-site or through local tour operators. Tickets for the bridge’s boat tours are also available for purchase at the riverbank.
Booking tickets in advance is not necessary for the bridge visit, but it is recommended for guided tours or boat rides, especially during peak tourist seasons. Booking a day or two in advance should suffice.
To fully explore Anping Bridge and the nearby attractions, you should allocate around 2-3 hours. This allows for a leisurely walk across the bridge, a visit to Anping Old Street, and exploration of nearby historical sites like the Anping Fort and temples.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin and English, especially for visitors interested in learning about the history of the bridge and surrounding area. Audio guides in multiple languages are available at the Anping Fort for a small fee.
Start by crossing Anping Bridge, taking photos from different angles. Then, head to Anping Old Street to enjoy local food and buy souvenirs. Afterward, visit Anping Fort and explore the historical exhibits. Finish with a peaceful walk around the nearby temples and riverbanks.
While there are no specific night visits or light shows at Anping Bridge, you can enjoy the bridge illuminated at night. Some nearby attractions may offer evening tours, but the bridge itself is typically best visited during daylight hours.
Anping Bridge can get crowded, especially on weekends and public holidays. To avoid crowds, visit early in the morning or on weekdays, particularly during the off-season in autumn or spring.
Basic facilities like public toilets, water stations, and rest areas are available near Anping Bridge. Anping Old Street offers numerous shops selling local snacks and souvenirs. For more extensive facilities, visit the nearby Anping Fort or larger commercial areas in Quanzhou.
The bridge itself is easily accessible for most visitors, though some areas around Anping Fort and the old streets may have uneven surfaces. Wheelchair access may be limited in some areas, so it is advisable to check specific accessibility features for nearby attractions.
Mobile payments like Alipay and WeChat Pay are widely accepted at most places. However, it’s a good idea to carry some cash for small purchases, especially at street vendors or local shops.
There are several restaurants and cafes near Anping Bridge offering Fujianese cuisine, including local specialties such as oyster omelets and seafood. Anping Old Street is home to many eateries serving snacks and traditional meals.
Vegetarian options are available at many local restaurants, especially in the form of tofu dishes, vegetables, and noodles. Halal food options are more limited but can be found in nearby larger cities or specialized restaurants.
There are several hotels and guesthouses near Anping Bridge, including budget options and mid-range accommodations. For a more luxurious stay, you may need to stay in downtown Quanzhou, which offers more high-end hotels.
Souvenir shops near Anping Bridge sell traditional handicrafts, such as porcelain, paper fans, and embroidery. Local snacks, including dried seafood and Fujian tea, are also popular souvenirs.
From Anping Bridge, taxis and buses are available to continue your trip. The Quanzhou Railway Station is a short distance away by taxi, offering connections to other parts of Fujian and beyond.
