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The most recommended activities at Kaiyuan South Bridge include:
South Bridge, located 25 kilometers south of Kaiyuan City, spans the Lu River. Anciently known as Bingquan Bridge, it was named after the spring to its west. A three-arch stone arch bridge, it is 61 meters long. Construction began in 1654, the 11th year of the Shunzhi reign of the Qing Dynasty, and was completed in 1793, the 58th year of the Qianlong reign. It serves as a vital bridge connecting Kaiyuan to the border regions. It was designated a Kaiyuan City Cultural Relic Protection Site in 1983.
The stone guardrails on either side of the bridge are largely intact, though slightly damaged in the middle. Several round stone pillars can still be seen on the ground. These were the footings of the "four-cornered hollow pavilions" unique to ancient Chinese stone bridges, though the pavilions have long since disappeared. At the north end of the bridge are two marble plaques: one inscribed with "Kaiyuan City Cultural Relic Protection Unit Nanqiao," and the other with a brief introduction to Nanqiao.
Looking at the remaining marks of rising water, dead trees and weeds on the piers of the South Bridge, I suddenly felt the majestic momentum of the surging river. Closing my eyes, I thought: two or three hundred years ago, with lush forest vegetation and abundant rainfall, the Lujiang River must have been turbulent and majestic. The not-so-wide river separated the north-south passage. How did the people on both sides travel back and forth, and how did the traveling merchants and horse caravans cross? These are things that modern people cannot imagine.
Located in the subtropical monsoon climate zone, it is spring-like all year round with plenty of sunshine, no severe cold in winter and no scorching heat in summer, making it suitable for travel in all seasons.
Visit Kaiyuan South Bridge.
It is recommended to play for about 15 minutes.
free
Open all day
Kaiyuan South Bridge is a historical bridge with significant architectural and cultural value. It has stood as a testament to ancient engineering, and it plays an important role in the transportation and connectivity of the region.
Kaiyuan South Bridge is located in Kaiyuan, a city in the Red River region of Yunnan. It can be accessed by taxi or private car from the city center. Public transportation options are limited, so a taxi or ride-sharing service is recommended.
The bridge is open to the public at all times. However, the best times to visit are early morning or late afternoon for better light and fewer crowds.
There is no entrance fee to visit the bridge. It's a public landmark that can be accessed freely.
No booking is required to visit Kaiyuan South Bridge as it is open to the public without an entrance fee.
A visit to the bridge and surrounding area typically takes 1-2 hours, allowing time for a leisurely walk and exploration of the nearby markets and village.
The main highlight is the Kaiyuan South Bridge itself, offering stunning views of the river and surrounding landscapes. The nearby markets and traditional architecture are also worth exploring.
Guided tours may be available upon request in the region, but it's best to check with local tour operators. Audio guides are not typically provided, but local guides can provide information in Mandarin.
The best viewpoints are from the middle of the bridge and from the surrounding banks of the river, which offer beautiful panoramic views of the bridge and its environment.
Start by walking across the bridge to take in the views, then explore the surrounding area, including the local markets and the traditional buildings. End your visit by relaxing near the riverbank.
Night visits and light shows are not typically available, but the bridge is beautifully lit in the evening, offering a different perspective of the surroundings.
The area can get busy during weekends and holidays, but weekdays, especially early in the morning, are generally less crowded.
There are basic facilities such as public restrooms near the bridge. Local shops and food stalls are available in the nearby markets, but there are no major rest areas.
The bridge itself is accessible for most visitors, including the elderly and children. However, the area around the bridge may have uneven terrain, so some caution is needed for disabled visitors.
Cash is widely accepted in local markets and food stalls, but mobile payments (WeChat Pay, Alipay) are also commonly used.
There are a few local restaurants and food stalls near the bridge where you can sample local Yunnanese cuisine, such as rice noodles and grilled meats.
Vegetarian and vegan options are available in some local restaurants, but halal food may be limited. It's best to ask before dining.
Nearby accommodations include budget hotels and guesthouses. For more luxurious options, you can stay in the city center and take a short taxi ride to the bridge.
Other attractions in the Red River region include the Honghe Hani Rice Terraces and Yuanyang County, which are easily accessible for a day trip from the bridge.
Souvenir shops near the bridge sell local crafts, textiles, and traditional Yunnan handicrafts such as tea sets and woven items.
After visiting, taxis or buses can take you to nearby attractions. If you're heading to a more distant location, long-distance buses and private cars are the best options.
