Wanzi Bridge

Introducing Wanzi Bridge

Wanzi Bridge, located in Lijiang Old Town, is called "Cimu Zao" in the Naxi language. This name comes from the abundant lush catalpa trees (called "Cimu" in the Naxi language) that once lined the grounds below the bridge. Legend has it that Wanzi Bridge was built with donations from a wealthy Ming Dynasty family named Yang, who, having long been childless, sought to build a bridge to accumulate merit. The bridge builders, aware of the donor's intentions, deliberately chose a sandstone slab, transported from afar and formed from the condensation of millions of grains of sand, for the bridge's construction. The name "Wanzi Bridge" reflects the craftsmen's unique imagination and their best wishes for the donors.

Located in the heart of the ancient city, this stone bridge boasts a history of over 280 years. Donated by a wealthy businessman seeking a child, its construction is constructed from sandstone, a material cemented with sand grains, symbolizing the promise of numerous descendants. It's one of only three remaining ancient bridges in Lijiang Old Town, and while it's not as popular as the large stone bridge, it holds its own unique charm.

Climate and best time to travel

The plateau has a monsoon climate; Wanzi Bridge is a single-hole stone arch bridge built in the Ming Dynasty and is suitable for travel in all seasons.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

It is recommended to play for 1-2 hours

Tickets

Free and open

Attraction opening hours

Open all day

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Most Popular FAQs for Wanzi Bridge

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

Wanzi Bridge is a historic bridge located in the Lijiang Old Town area, famous for its unique architectural design. It holds cultural and historical significance as a symbol of the region's rich history and the Naxi people’s engineering skills. The bridge is also a popular destination for photographers due to its beauty and setting amidst the traditional Naxi structures.

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

Wanzi Bridge is located in Lijiang, Yunnan Province. It is easily accessible by walking from the Old Town, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Taxis and buses are also available for those coming from other parts of the city.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Wanzi Bridge is an open-air public attraction and can be visited at any time of day. However, the best times to visit are during early mornings or late afternoons when the lighting is perfect for photos and the bridge is less crowded.

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

There is no entrance fee to visit Wanzi Bridge. However, some nearby attractions or events may require tickets. Tickets for these can usually be bought on-site or online if available.

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

No booking is required for visiting Wanzi Bridge. It is a free public attraction, and you can visit at any time without prior reservation.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

Exploring Wanzi Bridge typically takes around 30 minutes to 1 hour. Visitors can enjoy a peaceful walk, take photographs, and relax by the water.

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

The main highlight of Wanzi Bridge is the bridge itself, with its distinctive design and panoramic views. The surrounding area, including the nearby river and traditional Naxi buildings, also provides beautiful scenery and photo opportunities.

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

Guided tours are not typically available for Wanzi Bridge itself. However, there are many tour guides available in Lijiang who can offer tours of the nearby Old Town and other landmarks in multiple languages, including English and Mandarin.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The best photography spots are directly on the bridge, where you can capture both the architecture and the surrounding scenery. Additionally, the area around the river and the traditional buildings make for excellent photo backdrops.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start by walking across the bridge and enjoy the views of the river and the nearby mountains. Afterward, explore the surrounding streets of Lijiang Old Town for a full cultural experience, as the town itself is a UNESCO World Heritage site.

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

Night visits to Wanzi Bridge are possible, and the bridge is beautifully lit at night, making it a great spot for evening photography. However, there are no organized light shows or special tours available at the bridge itself.

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

Wanzi Bridge can get crowded, especially during the day and on weekends. The best times to visit for a more peaceful experience are early in the morning or late in the afternoon on weekdays.

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

There are basic facilities around the bridge area, including public toilets and resting spots. Several small shops and food vendors can also be found in Lijiang Old Town, offering local snacks and drinks.

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

Wanzi Bridge is accessible for most visitors, including elderly and children. However, individuals with mobility impairments may find the area surrounding the bridge challenging, as Lijiang Old Town has many narrow streets and uneven pathways.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is still accepted in many places around Lijiang Old Town, but mobile payments (WeChat Pay and Alipay) and cards are widely accepted at most shops, restaurants, and attractions.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are numerous restaurants and cafes around Lijiang Old Town, offering a variety of options from local Naxi cuisine to international fare. Many cafes offer great views of the surrounding mountains and the river.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian and vegan options are available in many of the restaurants around Lijiang Old Town. Halal food may be more limited but can be found in certain local eateries catering to Muslim tourists.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

There are many accommodations near Wanzi Bridge, including guesthouses, boutique hotels, and larger resorts. Many of these offer traditional Naxi-style architecture, providing a cultural experience during your stay.

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

Nearby attractions include Lijiang Old Town, Black Dragon Pool, and the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain. All of these are within a short distance and can easily be combined into a full day trip.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Souvenir shops in Lijiang Old Town offer traditional Naxi handicrafts, such as jewelry, textiles, and wood carvings. You can also find local tea, snacks, and artwork representing the culture of the region.

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

After visiting Wanzi Bridge, taxis, buses, and private cars are readily available for continuing your trip to other attractions in Lijiang or further destinations in Yunnan Province. Public transportation is a convenient option for exploring the city.