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The Nine-Bend Bridge, located in Fenghe, Quyuan, West Lake, Hangzhou, is a 10-story building . Nine is the largest single digit, and was coined in ancient times as " nine nines return to one " and " the supreme ruler . " The bridge leads directly to Diancui Island, a small island nestled in the middle of the lake. On the island sits the Solitary Island Pavilion, built as Diancui Pavilion in the Ming Dynasty. To the west of the pavilion lies Loquat Island, and two other bridges connect to Gushan and Fanghua Island.
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The Nine-Curve Bridge, located in Hangzhou, is a famous historical landmark known for its scenic beauty and architectural significance. It is designed with multiple curves, which not only serve aesthetic purposes but also have symbolic meanings in Chinese culture, representing the crossing of obstacles and the path to enlightenment. The bridge is a central feature in the West Lake area, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
The Nine-Curve Bridge is located in the West Lake area of Hangzhou, Zhejiang. You can easily reach the bridge by taking a taxi or local bus from the city center. Walking is also a great option as it is situated within a scenic park that's ideal for strolling.
The Nine-Curve Bridge is open to the public throughout the day. The best times to visit are early mornings or late afternoons when the weather is cooler, and the area is less crowded.
There is no entrance fee for visiting the Nine-Curve Bridge. It is open to the public free of charge as part of the West Lake scenic area.
No booking is required for visiting the Nine-Curve Bridge. It is free to access and no tickets are needed.
Exploring the Nine-Curve Bridge and its surroundings typically takes around 30 minutes to 1 hour, depending on how much time you spend in the nearby park or walking along the lake.
Guided tours are available in the West Lake area, and some may offer commentary in English. Audio guides are also available for rent at various points around West Lake, including the Nine-Curve Bridge area.
The best photography spots are from the middle of the bridge, where you can capture the full curve and the reflection in the water. The surrounding park also offers several elevated spots with views of the bridge and West Lake.
Start by walking across the Nine-Curve Bridge, stopping to take photos along the way. Afterward, explore the nearby park and continue your walk around West Lake to enjoy other scenic spots such as the Broken Bridge or the Su Causeway.
While there are no specific light shows at the Nine-Curve Bridge, the bridge and surrounding area are beautifully lit at night, making it an excellent spot for evening strolls and photography.
The bridge can be crowded during weekends and public holidays. The least crowded times are early mornings on weekdays, especially outside of peak tourist seasons.
Basic facilities, such as toilets and rest areas, are available near the bridge. There are also small shops and kiosks around the West Lake area where you can purchase drinks and snacks.
The Nine-Curve Bridge is generally accessible for elderly and children, though there are some steps and uneven paths nearby. People with mobility issues may find some areas difficult to navigate.
While there is no fee to visit the bridge, cards and mobile payments (like Alipay and WeChat Pay) are accepted at nearby shops and restaurants in the West Lake area.
Vegetarian and vegan options are available in many restaurants around West Lake. Halal food options may be available at certain establishments catering to Muslim visitors, especially in the tourist areas.
There are numerous souvenir shops near West Lake where you can buy traditional Chinese crafts, including silk, tea sets, and small statues of local landmarks like the Nine-Curve Bridge.
After visiting the bridge, you can take a taxi or public bus to explore more of Hangzhou. Alternatively, bike rentals are available for scenic rides around West Lake and other nearby areas.
