Geography & Accessibility
Lijiatuo Yangtze River Bridge sits between two lively districts in Chongqing: Jiulongpo (north) and Banan (south). The bridge connects the industrial area of Lijiatuo (Banan) with the residential and commercial hub of Jiulongpo. If you’re coming from downtown Chongqing, it’s about a 30-minute taxi ride southwest. The bridge is easy to spot—just look for the massive steel arch spanning the Yangtze River!
To get here, take the Light Rail 2 to Lijiatuo Station (芭南区方向), or bus routes 341⁄342 from Jiefangbei. Driving? The bridge has two levels: the upper deck is for cars, while the lower deck is for trains. Pro tip: Visit on a clear day to catch the best views!
Natural Scenery: River, Sky, and City Lights
The real star of Lijiatuo Yangtze River Bridge is its river scenery. Stand on the bridge’s walkway, and you’ll see the Yangtze River winding through mountains, with cargo ships passing below. At sunset, the golden light reflects off the water, and the city skyline glows in the distance. Honestly, it’s like a postcard!
Locals love coming here at night. The bridge lights up, and the reflections dance on the river. If you’re lucky, you might spot a mist covering the water early in the morning—it looks straight out of a Chinese painting!
Human Stories: A Bridge with History
Lijiatuo Yangtze River Bridge isn’t just pretty—it’s packed with history. Construction started in 1991, and it took 6 years to finish! Designed by Shanghai’s top engineers and built by local workers, this bridge was a big deal back then. Fun fact: The north side (Jiulongpo) was already busy with neighborhoods, while the south (Banan) was mostly factories. The bridge helped connect these two worlds.
Even today, you’ll see old-school industrial buildings near the south bank. Walk around, and you’ll feel like you’re stepping into Chongqing’s past.
Practical Tips: What to Bring
The bridge is free to visit, but bring comfy shoes—there’s a lot to explore! If you drive, there’s parking near the north entrance (Jiulongpo side). No fancy restaurants here, but street vendors sell snacks like spicy noodles and grilled skewers. Want a full meal? Head to the Lijiatuo Old Street nearby for hot pot or river fish.
For photos, morning or late afternoon light works best. Avoid rainy days, as the railings get slippery!
The Experience: More Than Just a Bridge
Walking across Lijiatuo Yangtze River Bridge feels like a mini-adventure. The lower deck has trains roaring by, while the upper deck is quieter (great for selfies!). If you’re brave, try peering down at the river—it’s a long drop!
Combine your visit with a trip to Jianchuan Museum (nearby) or the Yangtze River Cableway for more river views. And if you’re into urban vibes, the Jiulongpo area has alleys filled with retro shops and local life.
Honestly, Lijiatuo Yangtze River Bridge isn’t Chongqing’s most famous site, but that’s why it’s special. It’s less crowded, and you’ll see how “real” Chongqing blends old industry with modern life. Trust me, it’s worth a detour!