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Walk along the historic Marco Polo Bridge and admire its impressive architecture and ancient stone carvings. Learn about its historical significance in the context of the Second Sino-Japanese War. Visit the nearby museum to explore the history of the bridge and its role in Chinese culture.
Marco Polo Bridge, also known as Lugou Bridge, is the oldest existing stone arch bridge in Beijing. It is located over the Yongding River in Fengtai District, southwest of the city. On July 7, 1937, Japanese imperialism launched its full-scale invasion of China here. The Chinese garrison in Wanping City rose up to resist, resulting in what is known as the Marco Polo Bridge Incident (also known as the July 7 Incident). Bullet marks can still be seen on the bridge, imbuing it with profound significance.
The Lugou Bridge is 266.5 meters long and 7.5 meters wide, with 10 piers and 11 spans. Its stone structure is connected with silver ingot iron joints, making it the longest ancient stone bridge in North China. The bridge is adorned with numerous exquisitely carved stone lions, large and small, in various shapes. As a result, there's a saying that "the lions of Lugou Bridge are countless." During the Ming and Qing dynasties, "Lugou Dawn Moon" was one of Beijing's famous "Eight Scenic Spots of Yanjing." If you visit around the Mid-Autumn Festival, check out the scenic area's annual moon-viewing events; the Lugou Bridge at night offers a unique charm.
North temperate semi-humid continental monsoon climate;
Suitable for all seasons
It is recommended to visit for about 1 hour
20 yuan
07:00-20:00 (April 1st - October 31st)
07:00-18:00 (November 1st - March 31st of the following year)
Marco Polo Bridge, also known as Lugou Bridge, is one of the most historically significant landmarks in China. It was built during the Jin Dynasty and is famous for being the site of the Marco Polo Bridge Incident in 1937, which marked the beginning of the Second Sino-Japanese War. The bridge is an architectural marvel with over 500 stone lions sculpted along its length.
Marco Polo Bridge is located in the southwestern part of Beijing, near the Fengtai District. You can take Metro Line 9 to the "Lugou Qiao" Station, which is a short walk from the bridge. Alternatively, taxis and buses also provide easy access to the site.
The Marco Polo Bridge is accessible year-round from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The best time to visit is during the early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. Weekdays are less crowded compared to weekends.
There is no entrance fee for visiting the Marco Polo Bridge itself. However, the nearby museum and exhibition areas may have an entrance fee of approximately 10 CNY. Tickets can be purchased on-site or online through travel platforms.
Booking tickets in advance is not necessary for visiting the bridge, but if you plan to visit the museum or special exhibitions, it’s recommended to book tickets a few days ahead, especially during peak tourist seasons.
You can explore the Marco Polo Bridge in about 30 minutes to an hour, depending on your interest in the historical details and photography. If you visit the museum and surrounding areas, plan for an additional hour or so.
The must-see highlight is the bridge itself, with its iconic stone lions. The nearby museum offers a deeper dive into the history of the bridge and the Marco Polo Bridge Incident. Don't miss the beautiful views along the bridge, especially during sunrise or sunset.
Guided tours are available in Chinese, and audio guides are offered in both Chinese and English. These provide in-depth explanations of the bridge’s history and its significance in Chinese and world history.
The best photography spots are along the length of the bridge, particularly where the stone lions are located. The surrounding area, with its tranquil setting, also offers great views for landscape photos, especially at sunset.
Start by walking along the Marco Polo Bridge to take in the views of the stone lions and the river. Then, visit the nearby museum to explore the historical exhibits. If you have extra time, explore the surrounding parks and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
Night visits and light shows are not available at the Marco Polo Bridge. However, the bridge itself is beautifully illuminated at night, and walking along it during the evening provides a serene experience.
The bridge can get busy, particularly on weekends and public holidays. The least crowded times are during weekdays, especially in the early morning or late afternoon.
There are basic facilities such as public toilets and rest areas near the bridge. There are no food vendors directly on the bridge, but there are restaurants and cafes nearby in the Fengtai District.
The Marco Polo Bridge is accessible for elderly visitors and children. However, the bridge itself involves walking, and there are some stairs. It may not be fully accessible for those with severe mobility impairments, though the surrounding areas are easier to navigate.
Mobile payments like WeChat Pay and Alipay are widely accepted, and credit cards can be used in nearby facilities. However, cash may still be needed for some small purchases, especially at food stalls.
There are several local restaurants and cafes in the Fengtai District, offering traditional Chinese food, snacks, and tea. Nearby, you can find eateries serving Beijing-style dishes and international cuisine.
Vegetarian and vegan options are available in several nearby restaurants, as well as halal food in the Fengtai area, catering to diverse dietary needs.
There are several hotels near the Marco Polo Bridge, ranging from budget options to mid-range hotels. Staying in the Fengtai District or near the Beijing South Railway Station will give you easy access to the bridge and other nearby attractions.
Nearby attractions include the Tianjin Museum, Temple of Heaven, and the Beijing Zoo. These sites are easily accessible from Marco Polo Bridge and can be combined in a day trip.
There are small souvenir shops near the bridge selling items like traditional Chinese handicrafts, postcards, and historical memorabilia related to the Marco Polo Bridge Incident.
After visiting the Marco Polo Bridge, you can take the metro or a taxi to reach nearby attractions like the Temple of Heaven or Beijing Zoo. The area is well-connected by public transport for further exploration of the city.
