Nanjing Second Yangtze River Bridge

Introducing Nanjing Second Yangtze River Bridge

The Nanjing Second Yangtze River Bridge is the northern cross-river project of the Nanjing Ring Expressway. It stretches from Yaohuamen in the south, through Baguazhou in the middle of the river, to Liuhe District in the north. It is the largest cable-stayed bridge in China and third largest in the world, after the Tatara Bridge in Japan and the Pont de Lomandie in France. Since its completion and opening to traffic in March 2001, it has significantly alleviated traffic pressure on the Nanjing Yangtze River Bridge, which had stood for over 30 years. The bridge also features landscape lighting on the south branch of the main bridge, parks on the south and north branch bridges, and the Baguazhou service area.

The Nanjing Second Yangtze River Bridge was the first in China to use epoxy asphalt concrete for its steel bridge deck pavement. Based on 12 million cycles of high-, low-, and room-temperature fatigue tests, the epoxy asphalt concrete used in the steel bridge deck of the Nanjing Second Bridge has reached world-class quality. The Nanjing Second Yangtze River Bridge is known as "China's No. 1 Cable-Stayed Bridge."

Climate and best time to travel

Subtropical monsoon climate;

Suitable for all seasons

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

It is recommended to visit for 1 hour

Tickets

There is a toll system for accessing the bridge, with different toll rates for different types of vehicles.

Attraction opening hours

All day

---

Most Popular FAQs for Nanjing Second Yangtze River Bridge

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

The Nanjing Second Yangtze River Bridge is a vital transportation link connecting the northern and southern parts of Nanjing. Opened in 1968, it is a symbol of Nanjing's engineering prowess and an important infrastructure that contributed to the city’s development. The bridge's construction marked a major milestone in the history of Chinese civil engineering.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

The Nanjing Second Yangtze River Bridge is located in the southern part of Nanjing. You can reach it by taxi or public transport, including buses. The nearest metro station is Nanjing Yangtze River Station, from which you can take a short taxi ride or walk to the bridge.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The bridge itself is open for viewing at all times. The best times to visit are in the early morning or late afternoon when the weather is more pleasant and the lighting for photographs is ideal.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

There is no entrance fee for visiting the Nanjing Second Yangtze River Bridge. It is free to walk or view the bridge from the public areas surrounding it.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

No tickets are required to visit the Nanjing Second Yangtze River Bridge, as it is an open public attraction.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

Visiting the bridge and surrounding areas takes about 1-2 hours. If you plan to take photographs or walk along the riverbanks, you may want to spend 2-3 hours in total.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

• The bridge itself, with its unique design and sweeping views of the Yangtze River.
• The surrounding riverbanks, where you can enjoy panoramic views and take photographs of the bridge from different angles.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours are not typically available at the bridge itself. However, audio guides or detailed descriptions in Mandarin can be found in nearby tourist information centers or online sources.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• From the viewing platforms along the bridge, where you can capture wide-angle shots of the Yangtze River and the surrounding landscape.
• The riverside, where you can photograph the bridge from a distance, especially during sunset or sunrise.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start at the bridge’s base, take a stroll along the riverbank, and head toward the viewing platforms. From there, take in the views and capture photographs before continuing along the riverside. You can also visit the nearby parks for a full experience.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

The bridge does not offer a light show, but it is beautifully lit at night, making it a great place to view and photograph. Special night tours are not available, but a visit at night offers a peaceful atmosphere and stunning city views.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

The bridge is not usually crowded, but weekends and public holidays can attract more visitors. The least crowded times are weekdays, particularly in the early mornings and late evenings.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

• There are public rest areas along the riverbanks.
• No major shops or food stands are located directly on the bridge. However, you can find cafes and restaurants nearby in Nanjing.
• Public toilets are available at nearby parks or rest areas along the riverbank.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

The bridge and surrounding areas are generally accessible, though some sections may require walking long distances. The viewing platforms are wheelchair-friendly, but access to some areas along the river may be challenging for those with mobility issues.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Since there is no entrance fee, cash is not required for entry. Mobile payments such as Alipay and WeChat Pay are accepted in the nearby cafes and shops. Credit cards are less commonly accepted directly at the bridge.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

• There are several cafes and restaurants in the Nanjing city center, which is a short taxi ride away from the bridge.
• Local food options around the area serve traditional Jiangsu cuisine, including Nanjing salted duck and dumplings.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian options are available in nearby restaurants, especially in Nanjing's city center. Vegan and halal food options may be more limited but can be found in specific restaurants that cater to dietary needs.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

• There are several hotels in Nanjing's downtown area, including budget options and more luxurious choices with river views.
• Hotels near the Nanjing Yangtze River Station are convenient for access to the bridge.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

• The Nanjing Yangtze River Bridge is close to other major attractions like the Nanjing Yangtze River Scenic Area and the Nanjing Museum.
• Nearby landmarks include the Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum and the Ming Xiaoling Mausoleum, both UNESCO World Heritage sites.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

While there are no souvenir shops on the bridge, nearby markets and shopping streets in Nanjing offer local handicrafts, silk products, and tea sets as typical souvenirs.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

• Taxi services and ride-sharing apps like Didi are readily available for continuing your journey to other parts of Nanjing.
• Public transport, including buses and metro, provides convenient connections to other major attractions in Nanjing.