Yongan Bridge
Yongan Bridge is located near No. 6 Xijing Street in the Zhujiajiao Ancient Town scenic area. Just 200 meters to the northeast lies the northern abutment of Fangsheng Bridge. Yongan Bridge runs east to west, spanning Xijing Port. Positioned at the southern end of Xijing Port, it is also known locally as the “South Bridge.”
Originally built in the 16th year of the Guangxu Reign (1890) of Qing dynasty, it was renovated in 1999. The bridge is a single-span flat-beam structure made of granite. It measures 12 meters long, 1.75 meters wide, and 2.5 meters high, with a span of 4.7 meters. At both the east and west ends are nine stone steps each, built of small stones on either side. The bridge deck is fitted with post-and-rail stone balustrades standing 60 cm tall, with the ornamental posts rising to 98 cm. The walkway consists of three large stone slabs, and the steps are a comfortable 30 cm deep, making it pleasant to cross.
Inside the eastern archway is a stone inscription bearing the bridge’s name, which reads from right to left: “Guangxu 16th Year, Gengyin Cycle (1890) – Yongan Bridge” (in large regular script). The year 1890 places the bridge’s original construction 135 years ago.
The “Three Bridges on Dragon River” play an important role in local customs and festivals. In Zhujiajiao, there is a special tradition: on the morning of the Lunar New Year’s Day, young and old residents joyfully walk across every bridge in the town together. To them, these sturdy structures, which quietly link streets in daily life, become vessels of protection and blessings at the start of a new year.
Each bridge carries its own symbolic hope: crossing Yongan Bridge brings eternal peace and health; Zhonglong Bridge signifies dragon-like vigor; Yongquan Bridge means wisdom and wealth flowing abundantly; Fangsheng Bridge blesses with longevity; Ping’an Bridge ensures peace and harmony; Yongfeng Bridge symbolizes endless harvests; Taian Bridge prays for peace and prosperity for the nation and people; Fuxing Bridge invokes good fortune shining bright.
On the first day of the New Year, following the elders, listening to their stories, and crossing every stone bridge in town while sharing blessings must be a delightful way to begin the year!
