Yachi River Bridge

Introducing Yachi River Bridge

The Yachi River Bridge, located across the Yachi River at the junction of Qingzhen, Guiyang, and Qianxi, Bijie, is the world's largest steel truss cable-stayed bridge, and the longest cable-stayed bridge in a mountainous area. Construction began in 2013 and the bridge officially opened to traffic in July 2016. The bridge is 1,450 meters long, with an 800-meter main span. It has four lanes in both directions and a designed speed of 80 kilometers per hour.

The Yachi River Bridge is a key bridge project on the Guiyang-Qianxi Expressway. It is a twin-tower, twin-cable-plane, semi-floating hybrid cable-stayed bridge with an 800-meter main span. The main span's main girder is an orthotropic steel deck combined with a steel truss, while the side spans are prestressed concrete side box girders. Steel box transitions are used between the main and side spans.

The construction of the Yachi River Bridge won the first prize of the China Highway and Transportation Society Science and Technology Award in 2017, the second prize of China Communications Construction Company's Science and Technology Progress Award in 2017, and the highest award of the 35th International Bridge Conference, the "Gustavus Gold Medal".

Climate and best time to travel

Guiyang is a tourist city suitable for all seasons, but different seasons have different characteristics and charms.

Spring (March-May): The weather is warm and flowers are in full bloom, making it a great time for flower viewing and outings.

Summer (June-August): The summer is cool and a great place to escape the heat, with some water activities available.

Autumn (September-November): The weather is clear and the scenery is pleasant, and you can enjoy the golden rice fields and red leaves.

Winter (December-February): Although cold, you can experience unique folk activities and hot springs.

Generally speaking, Guiyang has a mild climate and is suitable for travel all year round. If you like cool weather, summer is a good choice; if you like colorful scenery, autumn will satisfy you.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

【Recommended attractions】

Scenic viewing: Visitors can look up at the bridge from the bottom, or overlook the beautiful scenery of Yachi River from the top.
Photography: There are many photo spots on the bridge. Visitors can use drones to capture the panoramic view of the bridge, or use cameras to take photos of people and the bridge.

Recommended visit time

1-2 hours

Tickets

Free and open

Attraction opening hours

Open all day

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Most Popular FAQs for Yachi River Bridge

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

Yachi River Bridge is a major infrastructure project in Guiyang, Guizhou, notable for being one of the highest and longest bridges in China. It connects mountainous regions, facilitating transport and economic development, and has become a landmark of modern engineering.

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

The bridge is located near the Yachi River valley in Guiyang, Guizhou. Accessible by taxi or private car from Guiyang city center. Local buses reach nearby villages, but walking to the bridge from town is not practical due to its remote location.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The bridge is open to traffic 24/7. The best times to visit for sightseeing and photography are morning or late afternoon for optimal lighting and fewer vehicles.

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

There is no entrance fee; it is a public bridge. Nearby scenic viewpoints may charge a small fee, which can be purchased onsite.

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

No advance booking is needed to visit the bridge itself.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

About 1–2 hours is sufficient for walking viewpoints, photography, and enjoying the scenery.

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

• The main span of Yachi River Bridge itself.
• River valleys and surrounding mountain scenery.
• Nearby scenic observation points for panoramic views.

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

Guided tours are rare; most visitors explore independently. Some local guides may offer Mandarin explanations, but other languages are uncommon.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• Side roads or observation platforms near the bridge.
• High vantage points overlooking the Yachi River valley.
• Sunrise or sunset shots from nearby hills for dramatic lighting.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

• Start at the nearest parking or village access point.
• Walk along designated viewing paths to the bridge.
• Photograph the bridge from multiple angles.
• Optionally, explore nearby trails along the river valley.

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

Night visits are possible for cars; the bridge may be illuminated, but pedestrian access is limited. No formal light shows or special tours are usually offered.

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

The bridge is generally not crowded. Weekdays see minimal traffic and few visitors; weekends may have more cars and photographers.

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

Facilities near the bridge are limited. Nearby villages may offer small shops, rest areas, and snacks. Toilets are typically in village areas or scenic observation points.

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

Vehicle access makes it easier for elderly visitors. Walking areas may be uneven, so caution is advised. Children should be supervised, and wheelchair access is limited.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is useful for small village vendors; mobile payments like Alipay/WeChat are commonly accepted in nearby towns.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

Small local restaurants and snack shops are available in nearby villages; larger options are in Guiyang city.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian options are sometimes available in local eateries; halal food is limited and mostly found in Guiyang city.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

• Guesthouses and small inns in nearby villages.
• Hotels in Guiyang city, which is 40–60 minutes away by car.

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

• Yachi River scenic area for hiking and nature exploration.
• Qianling Park in Guiyang city.
• Traditional villages and river valleys along the Yachi River.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Small village shops sell local handicrafts, dried foods, and cultural trinkets. Souvenirs are typically modest and handmade.

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

• Taxi or ride-hailing to Guiyang city or nearby attractions.
• Private car for flexible day trips along the Yachi River valley.
• Local bus connections to nearby towns, though limited.