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Walk across the historic Yongning Bridge to enjoy the architecture, visit the nearby temples, and take a boat ride along the river for scenic views. Take time to explore the local shops and enjoy traditional snacks.
Yongning Bridge is the best viewing point in Xitang Ancient Town, and is a favorite among photographers and painters. Standing on Yongning Bridge, you can take in the panoramic view of both sides of the Xutang River and the ancient covered bridge to the south.
The Xutang River narrows into a water lane, with a replica of an antique street to the west and ancient Tangdong Street to the east. On the north bank of the river, the Chaonandai Long Corridor lies like a winding dragon at the water's edge, with pedestrians and cyclists crisscrossing beneath it.
The south bank of the river, behind West Street, is lined with residential buildings of varying heights, most dating from the late Qing Dynasty to the Republic of China. The towering wind and fire walls of the mansions offer a panoramic view of the blue bricks, black tiles, and stone river bridges.
Spring is the best time to visit Xitang. In April, there is a drizzle in the south of the Yangtze River. It is very pleasant to stroll in Xitang in the rain and enjoy the cherry blossoms.
Recommended playing time: about 30 minutes
Free (included in Xitang Ancient Town ticket)
All day
Yongning Bridge, located in Jiaxing, Zhejiang, is a historic structure built during the Ming Dynasty. It is an important symbol of the region’s architectural heritage and serves as a vital part of the local community, providing both transportation and cultural value.
Yongning Bridge is located in Jiaxing, Zhejiang Province. It can be accessed by taxi or bus from the Jiaxing city center. Walking is also a pleasant option if you are in the vicinity.
The bridge is open year-round. The best times to visit are during spring and autumn, when the weather is ideal. Early mornings or late afternoons are less crowded, offering a peaceful experience.
There is no entrance fee to visit Yongning Bridge. However, if you plan to take a guided tour or visit nearby attractions, there may be separate fees. Tickets can typically be purchased on-site.
Booking tickets in advance is not necessary for visiting the bridge itself. However, if you are planning to visit specific attractions or join a guided tour, booking in advance during peak seasons may be helpful.
You can explore the bridge and its surrounding areas in about 1-2 hours. If you plan to explore the nearby attractions and enjoy a boat ride, you may need 3-4 hours.
The bridge itself is the main highlight, with its classic ancient design. Nearby temples and the scenic river offer additional spots to explore.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and some may also offer services in English. Audio guides are not typically available, so a local guide is recommended for a more enriched experience.
The best viewpoints are from the bridge itself, as well as from the riverbank below, offering excellent photo opportunities of the bridge and the surrounding natural landscape.
Start by walking across the bridge to enjoy its architecture, then visit the nearby temples. If time permits, take a boat ride along the river to enjoy a more comprehensive view of the area.
While there are no light shows or night visits, the bridge is beautifully lit at night, offering a serene atmosphere. A visit in the evening provides a quieter and picturesque experience.
The bridge can get crowded during weekends and public holidays. The least crowded times are weekday mornings and late afternoons, especially outside of major Chinese holidays.
There are public toilets and small shops selling souvenirs and snacks near the bridge. Rest areas are available for visitors to relax and enjoy the surroundings.
The bridge has steps and may be challenging for elderly or disabled visitors. However, children will enjoy walking across the bridge and exploring the nearby area. Some areas nearby are more accessible.
Cash is accepted at local shops, but mobile payments such as Alipay and WeChat Pay are more commonly used, especially in larger shops or restaurants.
There are several local restaurants serving Zhejiang cuisine nearby. Some cafes also offer a nice setting to relax and enjoy a cup of tea by the river.
Vegetarian and vegan options are available in most local eateries, as Zhejiang cuisine features a variety of vegetable dishes. Halal options may be more limited but can be found in larger towns or areas catering to Muslim visitors.
There are a few budget and mid-range hotels in the vicinity of the bridge. Jiaxing city center offers more accommodation options ranging from budget to luxury hotels.
Nearby attractions include the Jiaxing Nanhu Revolutionary Memorial Hall, Wuzhen Water Town, and the Nanbei Lake Scenic Area. These can easily be combined into a day trip from Yongning Bridge.
There are small souvenir shops selling traditional Zhejiang crafts, such as silk products, handmade paper, and tea. Local snacks also make great souvenirs.
Public buses and taxis are available to continue your trip. For longer distances, Jiaxing Railway Station and the local bus terminal offer convenient travel options to other cities in Zhejiang Province.
