Introducing Zhenyuan Zhusheng Bridge
Zhusheng Bridge, located in Zhonghe Mountain east of Zhenyuan County, Guizhou Province, was built during the Hongwu reign of the Ming Dynasty. Originally named "Xiqiao," it was later renamed "Zhusheng Bridge" to celebrate the birthday of Emperor Kangxi. It is one of the longest bridges not only in Guizhou but also in the entire southwest region. Constructed entirely of bluestone, its piers date back to the Ming Dynasty, while the main structure dates from the Qing Dynasty. Construction began in the second year of the Hongwu reign of the Ming Dynasty. It is said that during that time, flash floods in the Yang River destroyed the bridge several times. Consequently, its completion was not completed until 1723, the first year of the Yongzheng reign.
The scenery on both sides of Zhusheng Bridge is charming and pleasant, and the night view is particularly beautiful, with the bright lights and the reflections on the lake complementing each other.
Climate and best time to travel
Subtropical monsoon climate;
Suitable for all seasons
Tickets
free
Attraction opening hours
All day
Most Popular FAQs for Zhenyuan Zhusheng Bridge
What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?
The Zhenyuan Zhusheng Bridge is an ancient stone arch bridge, with a rich history dating back to the Ming dynasty. It is known for its beautiful and sturdy structure, providing a key crossing over the Wuyang River. The bridge is a significant example of traditional Chinese engineering, and the surrounding area is a cultural hub with temples, ancient towns, and lush natural beauty.
Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?
- The Zhenyuan Zhusheng Bridge is located in Zhenyuan County, Guizhou Province, China.
- The easiest way to get there is by taking a bus or taxi from the nearby city of Guiyang (around 2.5 hours by car). You can also take a bus directly from the Zhenyuan bus station.
- The bridge is within walking distance from the main attractions of Zhenyuan Ancient Town, making it easy to explore the area on foot.
What are the opening hours and best times to visit?
- The Zhenyuan Zhusheng Bridge is an outdoor attraction, open year-round, with no specific opening hours.
- The best time to visit is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is mild and the river views are clear.
- Avoid visiting during Chinese New Year or major holidays when it can get crowded.
What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?
There is no entrance fee to visit the Zhenyuan Zhusheng Bridge itself. However, there may be charges for boat tours or nearby temple visits. You can buy tickets for these activities either on-site or through local tour operators.
Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?
It is not necessary to book tickets in advance for visiting the bridge, but it is recommended to book boat tours or temple visits in advance, especially during peak travel seasons. Booking 1-2 days ahead is usually sufficient.
How much time is needed to fully explore it?
It typically takes 2-3 hours to fully explore the Zhenyuan Zhusheng Bridge and the surrounding area, including a boat ride along the river, walking around the bridge, and visiting nearby historical sites. A half-day trip is usually enough for most visitors.
What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?
- The Zhenyuan Zhusheng Bridge itself, with its ancient stone structure and impressive span across the Wuyang River.
- The surrounding ancient town, including temples, old streets, and traditional architecture.
- The scenic Wuyang River, ideal for boat tours that offer panoramic views of the bridge and surrounding mountains.
Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?
Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and some local guides may speak basic English. Audio guides may be available for major tourist sites in Zhenyuan, but it’s recommended to check availability in advance.
What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?
- The best spot for photography is along the riverbank, where you can capture the full length of the Zhusheng Bridge with the surrounding mountains in the background.
- The top of the nearby hills offers an excellent vantage point for panoramic views of the bridge and the town.
- Boat rides provide great opportunities for unique, close-up shots of the bridge and the cliffs surrounding the river.
What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?
- Start by walking through the ancient town of Zhenyuan, exploring the old streets and temples.
- Next, visit the Zhusheng Bridge and admire its architecture and views.
- Take a boat tour along the river to get a different perspective of the bridge and surrounding area.
- End the visit with a relaxing walk along the riverbank or hike up to a nearby viewpoint for panoramic views.
Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?
Currently, there are no specific night visits or light shows available at Zhenyuan Zhusheng Bridge. However, the bridge and nearby town are beautifully lit in the evenings, offering a peaceful atmosphere for evening walks and photography.
Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?
- The Zhenyuan Zhusheng Bridge and surrounding area can be crowded during weekends and public holidays, particularly during the summer and Chinese New Year.
- To avoid the crowds, visit during weekdays, especially in the early morning or late afternoon. Spring and autumn are the best seasons for a more relaxed experience.
What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?
- Public toilets are available near the bridge and within the ancient town.
- There are several small food stalls and local restaurants offering traditional snacks and meals in Zhenyuan.
- Shops selling souvenirs, local handicrafts, and snacks can be found near the bridge and in the ancient town.
Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?
- The Zhenyuan Zhusheng Bridge is accessible to elderly and children, but some areas may require walking up stairs or hills for better views.
- For disabled visitors, it might be challenging to access some of the more elevated viewpoints, but the main bridge and the town are relatively easy to navigate.
Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?
- Cash is accepted in many local shops and food stalls, but mobile payments like Alipay and WeChat Pay are commonly used.
- Credit cards are not widely accepted in the area, so it’s advisable to carry cash or use mobile payment apps.
What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?
- Local restaurants near the Zhenyuan Zhusheng Bridge serve traditional Guizhou dishes, including rice noodles and spicy stews.
- In the ancient town, you’ll find several cafes and tea houses offering a relaxed atmosphere with local snacks and drinks.
Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?
- Vegetarian and vegan food options are available in the area, particularly in the form of rice dishes, vegetables, and tofu.
- Halal food options are limited, but there are some restaurants in the nearby town that cater to Muslim visitors.
What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?
- There are several guesthouses and hotels within walking distance of Zhenyuan Zhusheng Bridge, offering basic accommodations for travelers.
- For more upscale options, you can find hotels in the city center of Zhenyuan or nearby towns.
What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?
- Nearby, you can visit the Zhenyuan Ancient Town, which features traditional architecture and historic landmarks.
- The Wuyang River is perfect for boat tours, offering scenic views of the surrounding mountains.
- For a day trip, you can also visit the Fanjing Mountain, a UNESCO World Heritage site, located about 2-3 hours away by car.
