Zhuangyuan Bridge

Introducing Zhuangyuan Bridge

Zhuangyuan Bridge is located in Tianxin Village, northeast of Shitang Township, Lingui District. The northeast of the village is adjacent to the south of Guilin City, separated only by a valley .

In 1868, Zhu Ruodong, a native of Tianxin, built a stone road leading directly to Guilin to make it easier for villagers to go to Guilin to study.

This stone path, a mere 40-minute walk to Guilin, remains the primary route for villagers to this day. Standing at its starting point, one can almost see the diligent students of Tianxin. It was thanks to this path that Tianxin Village later produced so many educated individuals, leading to the remarkable achievement of "nine Jinshi (imperial scholar) graduates from one family, and three Hanlin scholars from one father and son."

During the Qing Dynasty, Guilin flourished with a wealth of cultural families and talented individuals, with Tianxin Village serving as a prime example. At the time, Tianxin Village was home to seven families with the surnames Zhu, Xu, Xu, Guan, Zhou, Luo, and Zheng, of whom the Zhu and Xu families were particularly renowned.

Zhuangyuan Bridge consists of two stone bridges. It was discovered by photography enthusiasts in recent years and recommended as a must-take photo spot for photography enthusiasts in Guilin.

Climate and best time to travel

Suitable for all seasons

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Recommended playing time: half an hour to 1 hour

Tickets

free

Attraction opening hours

All day

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Most Popular FAQs for Zhuangyuan Bridge

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

Zhuangyuan Bridge is a historic bridge in Guilin, Guangxi, known for its traditional Chinese architectural style and cultural significance. It is a popular landmark for both locals and tourists, symbolizing the region’s connection to the Li River and its heritage.

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

• Located in Guilin, Guangxi, near the banks of the Li River.
• Accessible by taxi or local bus from Guilin city center.
• Walking or cycling from nearby hotels or riverside areas is possible.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

• Open daily, generally from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM.
• Best times to visit: early morning or late afternoon for softer light and fewer crowds.

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

Access to Zhuangyuan Bridge is usually free, as it is a public bridge. No tickets are required.

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

No booking is necessary since the bridge is publicly accessible.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

30 minutes to 1 hour is sufficient to walk the bridge, take photos, and enjoy the surrounding scenery.

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

• The central span of the bridge with views of the Li River.
• Nearby riverside walking paths and scenic spots for photography.
• Traditional decorative elements of the bridge itself.

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

Guided tours are generally not provided; local guides or travel agencies may offer explanations in Mandarin or English if arranged.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• From the middle of the bridge overlooking the Li River.
• Riverside areas for reflections of the bridge and karst scenery.
• Nearby small hills or elevated paths for panoramic shots.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start at one end of the bridge, walk across slowly while stopping for photos, then explore riverside paths and return or continue to nearby attractions such as Guilin’s central riverside area.

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

Nighttime visits are allowed; the bridge and river are often illuminated, providing opportunities for night photography.

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

Less crowded early in the morning or on weekdays. Weekends and holidays are busier due to tourists and local visitors.

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

• Basic facilities like public toilets and small food stalls near the bridge.
• Benches or seating areas along riverside paths.
• Souvenir vendors nearby, but limited on the bridge itself.

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

• The bridge is flat and suitable for children and elderly visitors.
• Wheelchair access is possible but may depend on surrounding path conditions.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is recommended for small vendors nearby; mobile payments like WeChat Pay or Alipay are sometimes accepted.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

Several riverside cafes and local restaurants are near the bridge, offering traditional Guilin cuisine and snacks.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian options are available; vegan and halal options are limited and may require inquiry at local restaurants.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

• Hotels and guesthouses in central Guilin along the river.
• Budget hostels and boutique hotels within walking distance of the bridge.

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

• Elephant Trunk Hill.
• Two Rivers and Four Lakes Scenic Area.
• Reed Flute Cave and central Guilin sightseeing spots.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Souvenir shops nearby sell postcards, small handcrafted items, local paintings, and decorative items featuring the Li River scenery.

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

• Taxi or local bus to other Guilin attractions.
• Walking or cycling to nearby scenic riverside areas.
• Private car or tour service for trips to Longsheng Rice Terraces or Yangshuo.