Luding Bridge Square

Introducing Luding Bridge Square

Luding Bridge Square is located in front of Luding Bridge. In May 1935, the Red Army reached this spot during the Long March. A commando team led by 22 brave men braved a hail of bullets, crawling along the iron chains and annihilating the enemy defenders on the bridge in one fell swoop, allowing the Red Army to cross the Dadu River. A museum now stands at the bridgehead, showcasing scenes from the "Luding Bridge Capture" battle.

Today, the square houses several valuable stone tablets and is surrounded by numerous restaurants and hotels. In the evening, take a stroll through the nearby squares and experience the local nightlife with the locals.

Climate and best time to travel

Suitable for all seasons

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Suggested playing time: about half an hour

Tickets

free

Attraction opening hours

All day

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Most Popular FAQs for Luding Bridge Square

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

Luding Bridge, built during the Qing Dynasty, is famous for its pivotal role in the Chinese Red Army's Long March in 1935. The bridge allowed the army to cross the Dadu River and continue their journey, making it a symbol of resilience and determination in Chinese history.

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

Luding Bridge is located in Luding County, Ganzi Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Sichuan. It can be accessed by bus or taxi from nearby towns. The closest major city is Chengdu, which is approximately 300 kilometers away. Visitors can also drive directly to the site.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The site is open daily from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The best time to visit is early in the morning or late afternoon when the weather is cooler and there are fewer tourists.

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

The entrance fee to Luding Bridge Square is around ¥10. Tickets can be purchased on-site at the entrance, and there is no need to book in advance.

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

No, tickets do not need to be booked in advance. Visitors can purchase them directly at the entrance.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

It takes about 1 to 1.5 hours to fully explore the Luding Bridge and the surrounding square, including taking photographs and reading the historical exhibits.

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

• The Luding Bridge itself, with its historical significance and views of the river.
• The surrounding square, where visitors can learn about the bridge's role in the Long March.
• The panoramic views of the Dadu River and surrounding mountains, perfect for photography.

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

Guided tours in Mandarin are available upon request. Audio guides are not offered, but there are informative plaques and signage throughout the area.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• From the middle of the bridge, you can capture the river below and the bridge’s impressive structure.
• The square near the entrance offers great vantage points for photos of the bridge from different angles.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start by visiting the entrance to view the square and read about the bridge's history. Then walk across the bridge itself, enjoying the scenic views, before returning to the square to explore further or take more photos.

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

Night visits are not typically offered, and there are no regular light shows. However, the area can be quite scenic at sunset, offering beautiful lighting for photography.

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

The bridge and square can get crowded, especially on weekends and holidays. Weekdays and early mornings are the least crowded times to visit.

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

Basic facilities such as toilets and resting areas are available at the site. There are no large restaurants, but small local shops offer snacks and souvenirs.

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

The attraction is generally accessible for elderly visitors and children, though there are steps to cross the bridge, which may not be suitable for visitors with mobility issues.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is accepted for ticket purchases and some souvenirs. Mobile payments such as WeChat Pay and Alipay are commonly accepted at nearby shops.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are small local restaurants nearby offering Sichuan cuisine, including noodles, hotpot, and snacks. However, there are no major cafes or dining options directly within the attraction.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian options are available at nearby restaurants. Halal food may not be readily available in the area, but visitors can find some vegetarian-friendly dishes.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

• Nearby hotels include Luding County’s local hotels, such as the Luding International Hotel.
• For more options, visitors can stay in nearby cities like Kangding, which is a short drive away.

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

• The Dadu River is a scenic area nearby, ideal for a day trip and photography.
• The Ganzi Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture offers other cultural and natural attractions, such as the famous Tagong Temple.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

There are small souvenir shops selling local crafts, Tibetan religious items, and memorabilia related to the Long March and the Luding Bridge.

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

• Visitors can take a taxi or local bus to continue exploring the surrounding area or return to Chengdu.
• If you are staying in Kangding, a taxi or bus can take you there in approximately 1.5 hours.