Guangji Bridge

Updated 2025-06-23

## Chaozhou: Guangji Bridge Guangji Bridge — also known as Xiangzi Bridge — is one of China's four great ancient bridges. Built in 1171 during the Southern Song Dynasty, it spans…

Guangji Bridge
City
Chaozhou
Address
East Gate, Chaozhou Ancient City, Xiangqiao District, Chaozhou
Cost
20 RMB

Chaozhou: Guangji Bridge

Guangji Bridge — also known as Xiangzi Bridge — is one of China's four great ancient bridges. Built in 1171 during the Southern Song Dynasty, it spans 518 meters across the Han River.

What makes Guangji Bridge remarkable is its hybrid structure: a combination of beam bridge and pontoon bridge, connected by 18 ferry boats fastened with iron chains. This makes it the earliest known bascule-style bridge in the world, as praised by renowned engineer Mao Yisheng.

Every day, the "opening and closing" spectacle plays out:
During the day, the boats are linked to form a walkable path across the river. In the evening, they are pulled aside to allow for flood discharge and boat passage — a tradition dating back centuries.

The bridge was once also a vibrant market street. Its pavilions and towers housed tea shops and taverns, creating the scene known as:
> “A market one mile long across a bridge one mile wide.”
Even today, this cultural memory remains vivid for the people of Chaozhou.
VCG211314651973.jpg

How to Get There

  • From Chaoshan High-Speed Railway Station, take K1 Express Bus or Bus 108 to Nanqiao Market Station (approx. 1 hour, ¥8)
  • Or take a taxi (around 35 minutes)

Visitor Info

  • Floating Bridge Hours: 10:00–17:30 (last ticket at 17:00)
  • Ticket Price: ¥20 per person (half price for students)
  • Light Show: 20:00 and 21:30 daily (free to watch)

Highlights

  • Watch the daily opening and closing of the floating bridge section
  • Enjoy sunset views and the romantic evening light show
  • Experience “a bridge, a market” with pavilions along the way

Nearby Attractions

  • Paifang Street (5 min walk)
  • Kaiyuan Temple (10 min walk)
  • Han Yu Memorial Hall (just across the bridge)

Travel Tips

  • Visit in the late afternoon to enjoy both daytime views and the light show
  • Best views of the light show are from both sides of the Han River
  • The floating section of the bridge can sway slightly — walk carefully

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Content and photos courtesy of Southern Media Group (南方传媒 SPM)