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The Lion Grove Bridge is known for its picturesque views and serene surroundings. Visitors can enjoy walking across the bridge and taking in the beautiful scenery of the river. It’s a great spot for photography, especially at sunset when the light reflects on the water. If you're interested in history, take time to learn about the bridge's role in Tianjin's infrastructure.
The Lion Grove Bridge is the first bridge in China to use prestressed concrete cantilever technology. It is located on the Haihe River in Hebei District, Tianjin.
The original Lion Grove Bridge boasted a total of 184 lions, starting with two pairs of identical white marble sculptures at the bridgeheads, followed by high reliefs on the stone buttresses between the railings, and finally, cast iron lions on the railing posts between each buttress. The four stone lions at the bridgehead, a symbol of the bridge, have been renovated, and 1,177 new lions of varying sizes have been added throughout the bridge, making it a true "Lion Grove."
The bridge piers are decorated with reliefs of lions, allowing boaters to see adorable lion cubs from beneath the bridge as they sail through, fully embodying the unique character of the Lion Grove Bridge. Each lion is unique in its own way, with some roaring to the sky, others resting with their heads bowed, and some lively and adorable, truly creating a truly vibrant Lion Grove. Furthermore, the bridge's deck will feature colored asphalt for the first time, and the unique lighting design will create a spectacular effect at night.
Warm temperate semi-humid continental monsoon climate;
Suitable for all seasons
Recommended visit: 1 hour
free
All day
The Lion Grove Bridge, named after the nearby Lion Grove Garden, is a historic landmark in Tianjin. It has been an important crossing over the Haihe River for over a century, serving as both a functional structure and a cultural symbol of the city’s development. The bridge’s traditional Chinese architectural style adds to its historical significance.
The Lion Grove Bridge is located in the heart of Tianjin, near the Haihe River. It can be easily reached by Tianjin Metro Line 2 (Wangdingdi Station), or by taking a taxi or bus. The area is also very walkable, especially for those who enjoy strolling along the river.
The Lion Grove Bridge is open to the public 24/7, as it is a functional bridge. However, the best time to visit is during daylight hours when you can fully appreciate the view and take photos. Early mornings and late afternoons provide softer light for photography, and it’s generally less crowded.
There is no entrance fee for visiting the Lion Grove Bridge, as it is a public landmark. It’s free to walk across and explore the surrounding area.
No booking is required for the Lion Grove Bridge, as it is open to the public free of charge.
Visiting the Lion Grove Bridge typically takes around 30 minutes to an hour, depending on how much time you spend walking around the area and taking photos. If you're interested in exploring the nearby gardens and the river, you may need additional time.
The main highlight is the bridge itself, with its intricate design and scenic views of the river. The surrounding area, including the nearby gardens and the view of the Haihe River, is also worth exploring. It's a perfect spot for photography and enjoying the tranquility of the area.
There are no specific guided tours or audio guides available for the Lion Grove Bridge. However, there are often local guides available in nearby attractions who can provide information about the bridge’s history and its significance in Tianjin. Most guides speak Mandarin, and some may speak basic English.
The best photography spots are from the bridge itself, where you can capture the views of the Haihe River and the surrounding architecture. The nearby Lion Grove Garden also offers excellent viewpoints for capturing the bridge and the river at different angles.
Begin by walking across the bridge, then explore the surrounding area along the riverbank. You can take a stroll in the nearby parks and gardens. For a complete experience, take your time to enjoy the scenery and photograph the bridge from different spots along the river.
While there are no specific night tours or light shows at the Lion Grove Bridge, the bridge is beautifully lit at night. The surrounding area, including the river and nearby gardens, makes for a lovely evening walk. It’s a peaceful spot to relax and enjoy the city lights.
The bridge is not usually crowded, especially during weekdays. Weekends may attract more visitors, but it remains relatively quiet compared to other tourist spots in Tianjin. Early mornings and late afternoons are ideal times to avoid crowds.
There are no facilities directly on the bridge itself, but nearby parks and gardens have rest areas, toilets, and small food vendors. You can also find cafes and restaurants along the riverbank for refreshments.
The Lion Grove Bridge is easily accessible for elderly, children, and disabled visitors. The surrounding area is also generally wheelchair-friendly, though some parts of the gardens and riverbanks may have uneven terrain.
No payment is required for visiting the Lion Grove Bridge. However, for nearby cafes and shops, mobile payments (WeChat Pay, Alipay) and cards are widely accepted, while cash may be less common.
There are several restaurants and cafes along the Haihe River, including local eateries offering Tianjin cuisine. Popular options include riverside cafes where you can enjoy tea and snacks while taking in the view of the bridge.
Vegetarian and vegan options are available in some restaurants near the bridge. Halal food can be found in certain nearby establishments, especially in the Muslim quarter of Tianjin.
Nearby hotels include the Tianjin Marriott Hotel, The Ritz-Carlton Tianjin, and budget-friendly options in the city center. All are within a short distance of the Lion Grove Bridge, offering convenient access to the attraction and other landmarks in the city.
Nearby attractions include the Tianjin Eye, Ancient Culture Street, and Haihe River. These sites are all within walking distance or a short taxi ride from the Lion Grove Bridge, making them perfect for a day trip.
There are souvenir shops along the Haihe River and near the Lion Grove Bridge selling local arts and crafts, including paintings, calligraphy, and small trinkets. Traditional Tianjin souvenirs such as local snacks and souvenirs featuring the city’s landmarks are popular choices.
After visiting the Lion Grove Bridge, you can continue your trip by taking the Tianjin Metro, a bus, or a taxi to other nearby attractions. The city’s public transport system is efficient and well-connected, making it easy to explore further.
