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The Songzi Laifeng Bridge was built in the Ming Dynasty. It is the best-located place in Xitang Ancient Town. The three-arch stone slab bridge connects the West Street and the Misty Rain Corridor. It is also the first pier of the ancient town, and the original function of the "bridge" is fully reflected.
Legend has it that when the bridge was being built, a large bird flew over, and the builders believed it was a good omen, so they named it "Sending Children to the Phoenix Bridge." The bridge has a slope on one side and steps on the other, meaning those hoping for a son would take the steps, while those hoping for a daughter would climb the slope, a symbolic gesture.
Spring is the best time to visit Xitang
Recommended playing time: about 15 minutes
Free (included in Xitang Ancient Town ticket)
All day
Songzi Laifeng Bridge is a historic structure in Zhejiang, known for its ancient stone architecture and strategic importance in local transportation during imperial times. It has become a symbol of the region's rich cultural and architectural heritage.
Songzi Laifeng Bridge is located in Jiaxing, Zhejiang, approximately 1.5-2 hours from Shanghai by car. Visitors can reach the bridge by taxi or private car from Jiaxing city center, or take a local bus to the nearby stop and walk to the bridge.
The bridge and surrounding area are accessible year-round, with no specific opening hours. However, the best time to visit is in the spring and autumn when the weather is mild and the surroundings are lush and picturesque.
There is no entrance fee for visiting Songzi Laifeng Bridge. Visitors can explore the bridge and surrounding area freely. For guided tours or special activities, tickets may be required and can be purchased on-site.
For general visits, no advance booking is required. However, if you plan to book a guided tour or any special activity, it is recommended to book at least a few days in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons.
A visit to Songzi Laifeng Bridge can be completed in about 1-2 hours, including walking around the bridge and taking some photos. If you choose to explore nearby villages, you may want to allocate more time.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and some tour operators may offer English-speaking guides during peak seasons. Audio guides are not commonly available at the bridge itself.
Start by walking across the Songzi Laifeng Bridge, then take time to explore the surrounding area for scenic views. Afterward, visit nearby villages to immerse yourself in the local culture. If time allows, enjoy a walk along the riverbanks for a peaceful experience.
There are no night visits or light shows at Songzi Laifeng Bridge. The bridge is best visited during daylight hours for the most picturesque views and photo opportunities.
The area around Songzi Laifeng Bridge is generally not crowded. To avoid even the smaller crowds, visit on weekdays or during the off-season, typically in winter or early spring.
Basic facilities like toilets and small local shops are available near the bridge. There are also food stalls selling snacks and drinks. For full meals, you may need to visit nearby towns or villages.
The bridge and surrounding areas are mostly accessible to elderly and children. However, the terrain around the bridge may be uneven, so people with mobility issues may find it difficult to explore the area completely.
Cash is still commonly accepted, but mobile payments like WeChat Pay and Alipay are widely accepted at the shops and food stalls near the bridge.
There are several local restaurants and tea houses near the bridge serving traditional Zhejiang cuisine, including dishes like steamed fish and Zhejiang-style dumplings.
Vegetarian options are available at many of the local restaurants, though halal food may be limited. It's best to check with the restaurant beforehand for halal options.
There are various hotels and guesthouses in Jiaxing city center, about 20 minutes by car from Songzi Laifeng Bridge. For a more scenic stay, you may find countryside inns or boutique hotels near the river.
Souvenir shops near Songzi Laifeng Bridge sell local handicrafts, tea, and snacks. Popular items include traditional Zhejiang teas, silk products, and hand-painted art.
After visiting Songzi Laifeng Bridge, taxis or buses are the most convenient options to continue your journey. For a more leisurely experience, you can rent a bike and explore the surrounding countryside or head to nearby attractions like Wuzhen Water Town.
