Sleep to the sound of waves｜Unlock the soul of Jiangnan by the Gongchen Bridge!

🏮 Gongchen Bridge: A time portal at the end of the Grand Canal
"One Gongchen Bridge, half the history of Hangzhou"—this stone arch bridge, built in the fourth year of the Chongzhen reign of the Ming Dynasty (1631), marks the endpoint of the Beijing-Hangzhou Grand Canal. The 98-meter-long three-arch stone bridge stretches across like a giant dragon. The name "Gongchen" means "bowing to welcome the emperor," and both Kangxi and Qianlong entered Hangzhou through this bridge during their southern tours.
✨ Must-see highlights:
On the bridge piers lies the water-guarding beast "Gongfu" (one of the nine sons of the dragon), which is said to swallow rivers and spit rain to protect the land's peace!
When lanterns light up in the evening, the ancient bridge reflects in the canal water, instantly transporting you into a traditional ink painting.
🏺 In-depth cultural street tour: Explore the "living museum" for free
→ Qiaoxi Zhijie: Stroll along the cobblestone road connecting century-old shops! Visit "Fanghuichuntang" for health consultations and explore "Zhejiang Xu Family Qin Hall" to enjoy the serene sound of guqin.
→ Four museums to explore:
· China Knife, Scissors, and Sword Museum: Try forging Zhang Xiaoquan scissors yourself
· China Umbrella Museum: Customize an oil-paper umbrella for 30 RMB as a keepsake
· China Fan Museum + Craft Art Museum: DIY blue-printed fabric for stunning photos
🔍 Practical tips
Location: Gongchen Bridge, Hangzhou
🚇 Transportation: Metro Line 5, "Gongchen Bridge East" Station, Exit B
🎫 Tickets: Free entry to the street area; museums are free but require reservations.

Post by 杭州枕河居 | Aug 1, 2025