Eight-Character Bridge

Introducing Eight-Character Bridge

Bazi Bridge is located at the east end of Bazi Bridge Street in Shaoxing city. It is in a relatively quiet place. Along both sides of the river are the unique buildings of old Shaoxing. There is no heavy commercial development there, and the Shaoxing culture is displayed in its original form.

The Eight-Character Bridge gets its name from the fact that the two bridges face each other at an angle, forming a figure eight. Constructed of stone, the bridge boasts a unique structure and connects three roads, connecting north and south. The bridge receives water from Mirror Lake in the south and the Grand Canal in the north, making it one of the main waterways of ancient Yuecheng.

Shaoxing is renowned for its waterside towns, and its bridges across rivers have become a distinctive symbol of the city. Among its many ancient stone bridges, the Eight-Character Bridge is the most representative. Standing atop the Eight-Character Bridge and gazing upon the scenery of Shaoxing's waterside streets offers a unique and captivating experience, often attracting numerous tourists, especially those in the art and photography fields.

Climate and best time to travel

Suitable for all seasons

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Recommended playing time: about 1-2 hours

Tickets

free

Attraction opening hours

All day

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Most Popular FAQs for Eight-Character Bridge

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

The Eight-Character Bridge, also known as Ba Zi Qiao, is a historical structure in Shaoxing, Zhejiang. It is famous for its unique eight-character shape formed by two intersecting bridges. The bridge is part of the ancient waterway system in Shaoxing, which has been a cultural and commercial hub for centuries. The town itself is renowned for its historical significance, being the birthplace of famous scholars and writers.

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

The Eight-Character Bridge is located in Shaoxing, Zhejiang. To get there, you can take a taxi or local bus from the city center. The area is easily accessible on foot as it is part of the ancient town with many attractions nearby.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The bridge itself is open 24 hours a day, as it is a public structure. However, the best time to visit is during daylight hours to enjoy the surrounding scenery. Early mornings and late afternoons offer the best lighting for photography and a peaceful experience without the crowds.

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

There is no entrance fee for visiting the Eight-Character Bridge itself. However, nearby attractions may charge admission fees. Tickets for those sites can be purchased on-site or in advance at local tourist centers.

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

Booking tickets in advance is generally not required for visiting the Eight-Character Bridge. However, if you plan to visit nearby museums or special events, it is advisable to check availability and book in advance.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

Visiting the Eight-Character Bridge itself will take about 30 minutes to an hour. If you're also exploring the nearby historical sites, you should plan for an additional 2-3 hours to fully appreciate the area's beauty and history.

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

• The Eight-Character Bridge itself is the main highlight, known for its distinctive shape and historical significance.
• The surrounding canals and waterway views offer stunning scenery and great photo opportunities.
• The nearby Shaoxing ancient town with its traditional houses and bridges is also a must-see.

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

Guided tours are available for the area surrounding the Eight-Character Bridge. They are usually offered in Mandarin, but some English-speaking guides can be arranged with prior notice. Audio guides may also be available at certain sites nearby.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• The Eight-Character Bridge itself is an iconic photo spot, especially in the early morning or late afternoon light.
• Views from the nearby canals and traditional houses make for excellent photos, offering a picturesque backdrop of the bridge.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start your visit by walking across the Eight-Character Bridge, then explore the nearby waterways by foot or boat. Afterward, visit the Shaoxing ancient town to take in its historical landmarks. Finish with a visit to the local museum to learn about the cultural significance of the region.

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

There are no dedicated light shows at the Eight-Character Bridge, but the bridge is beautifully lit at night, offering a tranquil and romantic setting. The area around the bridge is also nice for evening walks, especially near the water.

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

The Eight-Character Bridge can get busy during weekends and public holidays. To avoid the crowds, visit on weekdays, especially in the early morning or late afternoon, when the area is quieter.

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

There are public toilets available near the bridge. Local shops, cafes, and restaurants can be found in the surrounding area, offering food and drinks. For more extensive shopping and dining, head to Shaoxing's city center.

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

The Eight-Character Bridge is a public structure, but the surrounding area may have uneven paths. It is accessible for elderly and children, but visitors with disabilities may find it challenging to navigate some parts of the surrounding town due to the old infrastructure.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is accepted at many of the local shops around the bridge. However, mobile payments such as Alipay and WeChat Pay are also widely used in the area, making it easy to pay for most goods and services without needing cash.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are several local eateries around the bridge offering traditional Shaoxing dishes. For a more extensive selection of restaurants, visit the nearby Shaoxing city center, which offers both local and international options.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian options are widely available in Shaoxing due to its local vegetarian cuisine. Halal food may be more limited, but some restaurants in the city center cater to this dietary need.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

There are a few guesthouses and boutique hotels near the bridge. For a wider selection of accommodations, head to the city center of Shaoxing, where you will find more international hotel chains and local options.

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

• The Shaoxing Ancient Town, with its historic buildings and cultural landmarks.
• The Shen Garden, a famous scenic spot in Shaoxing.
• Visit the Lu Xun Memorial Hall to learn about one of China's most prominent writers.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Souvenir shops near the Eight-Character Bridge offer traditional Chinese crafts, such as calligraphy, silk products, and local Shaoxing rice wine. You can also find traditional paintings and souvenirs related to the local culture.

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

From Shaoxing, you can take a bus or taxi to nearby attractions or head to the train station for further travel. For longer distances, consider taking a high-speed train to Hangzhou or Shanghai, both of which are accessible from Shaoxing.