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The remains of China's first railway bridge across the Yellow River are located northeast of the Yellow River Scenic Area. Construction began in 1903 , the 29th year of the reign of Emperor Guangxu of the Qing Dynasty, by a Belgian engineering company. Officially opened to traffic in 1906 , it was the first railway bridge built across the Yellow River and is considered the " Mother of China's Railway Bridges . "
The old bridge , at 3,015 meters long, was the longest bridge before the founding of the People's Republic of China. When built, it had 102 spans. It suffered repeated damage during wartime, and the first spans at the north and south ends were filled during restoration, reducing the total span to 100 and the total length to 2,951 meters. It was demolished in 1987 , leaving only five spans preserved as cultural relics.
Suitable for all seasons
Recommended playing time: less than 1 hour
Included in the Yellow River Scenic Area ticket
6:30- Natural closing
The ruins of China’s first railway bridge over the Yellow River are significant as a historical landmark in the development of China’s railway network. Built in the early 20th century, the bridge was an engineering marvel of its time. It symbolized China’s industrial growth and served as a crucial transportation link, facilitating the movement of goods and people across the Yellow River. Today, the site serves as a symbol of China’s technological progress and its rich history.
The ruins are located in Zhengzhou, Henan Province, near the Yellow River. To reach the site, taking a taxi or private car from Zhengzhou city is the most convenient option. Public transportation options may be limited, so it is best to use ride-sharing apps or taxis.
The site is open for visits at any time of day, as it is an outdoor historical site. The best times to visit are during the early morning or late afternoon, especially during spring and autumn when the weather is cooler and more pleasant for walking and sightseeing.
The entrance is free as it is an open-air historical site with no formal entry gates or buildings. Visitors can simply explore the site at their leisure.
No advance booking is required for this attraction since it is an open-air site with free access.
A visit to the ruins usually takes about 1-2 hours, depending on how thoroughly you wish to explore and photograph the site. It is a relatively small area, so it is suitable for a quick stop during a day trip.
There are no formal guided tours or audio guides at the ruins. However, some informational signage is available in Chinese, offering details about the history of the bridge. Hiring a local guide can be a good option for a more in-depth understanding.
The best photography spots are from the banks of the Yellow River, where you can capture both the ruins of the bridge and the flowing river in the background. Sunrise or sunset offers the most dramatic lighting for photos.
There is no specific route to follow as it is an open area, but starting from the riverbank and walking along the remnants of the bridge is the best way to take in the site. Take time to explore the surrounding area for great photo opportunities.
Night visits are not available, as the site is not lit for nighttime exploration. There are no light shows or special tours provided for this site.
The site is not typically crowded, but weekends and public holidays may attract a few visitors. The best time to visit for a quieter experience is during weekdays, especially in the early mornings.
There are no facilities like toilets, food, or shops directly at the site. It is advisable to bring your own water and snacks if planning to stay for a longer period. The nearest rest areas and shops can be found in Zhengzhou city.
The site is mostly outdoors with some rough terrain, so it may be challenging for elderly or disabled visitors. However, children and able-bodied individuals should find it easy to explore. It’s advisable to take caution while walking around the ruins.
Cash is not necessary as the site is free to visit, and there are no services that require payment at the ruins. For food or transportation nearby, mobile payments like Alipay and WeChat Pay are widely accepted.
There are no restaurants or cafes directly at the ruins. Visitors will need to head to Zhengzhou city for a wide range of dining options.
Since there are no food facilities near the ruins, you’ll need to head to Zhengzhou for vegetarian, vegan, or halal food options. Zhengzhou city has many restaurants offering diverse cuisines.
There are no hotels near the ruins, but Zhengzhou city offers a wide range of accommodation options, from budget hotels to luxury resorts. Visitors can stay in the city and take a day trip to the ruins.
There are no souvenir shops at the site itself. Visitors can find souvenirs related to the Yellow River and Zhengzhou in the city, such as local handicrafts, tea, and postcards.
After visiting the ruins, the best transportation options to continue your trip are taxis, ride-sharing services, or buses. Zhengzhou city is well-connected and offers various transportation options for further travel.
