Location & How to Get There

Wushan Xinlongmen Bridge sits at the entrance of Longmen Gorge in the Xiaosanxia Scenic Area of Wushan County, Chongqing. This area is part of a stunning 5A-rated scenic zone along the Yangtze River. To reach it, you can drive along the Yu-Ba Highway (the main road connecting Chongqing and Hubei) or take a ferry from Wushan County Town, which is just a short distance away. The bridge is located 90 meters downstream from the old Longmen Bridge, right next to the county’s bustling waterfront.

Natural Beauty: A Bridge Between Land and Water

The bridge spans a narrow gorge carved by the Yangtze River, surrounded by towering cliffs and lush greenery. The area is famous for its steep mountains and crystal-clear waters, which create a dramatic backdrop for the bridge. After visiting, you can explore nearby Xiaosanxia (Little Three Gorges), a network of smaller gorges with striking rock formations. For photography lovers, the bridge offers panoramic views of the river and valleys, especially during sunrise or sunset when the light dances off the water.

Human Ingenuity: A Modern Marvel

Wushan Xinlongmen Bridge isn’t just a pretty sight—it’s also a engineering masterpiece. Built after the old bridge was threatened by rising water levels from the Three Gorges Dam, this new bridge replaced it to ensure safe travel and boat traffic. The bridge has a 240-meter main arch made of steel tubes filled with concrete, supported by two curved ribs and 11 crossbeams. It took two years to build (2007–2009) and cost about 70 million yuan. Fun fact: The bridge was built using cables to lift parts into place without needing scaffolding—talk about smart design!

Twin Bridges: A Match Made in Stone

If you look closely, you’ll notice another bridge nearby: the Wushan Yangtze River Highway Bridge. These two bridges are called “sister bridges” because they complement each other perfectly. While the older Yangtze bridge focuses on connecting roads, Xinlongmen Bridge handles both cars and boats passing through the gorge. Together, they frame the river like a natural gateway, blending human creativity with nature’s grandeur.

Practical Tips for Visitors

  • Best Time to Visit: Spring and autumn offer mild weather and fewer crowds. Avoid summer monsoons or winter fog, which can limit visibility.
  • What to Bring: Wear comfy shoes for hiking nearby trails, and bring a camera—the views are Instagram-worthy!
  • Accessibility: The bridge is easy to walk across, with wide sidewalks and safety rails. Nearby, you’ll find parking lots, rest areas, and signs in English (a bonus for non-Chinese speakers).
  • Combine with Other Attractions: After crossing the bridge, hop on a boat tour of Xiaosanxia or visit the Ancient Plank Road nearby for a mix of nature and history.

A Unique Experience: Walking Where Boats Sail

Crossing Wushan Xinlongmen Bridge feels like stepping into a postcard. Below, boats glide through the gorge, while above, the bridge’s arch mirrors the surrounding cliffs. At night, the bridge lights up, creating a magical contrast against the dark mountains. Whether you’re a fan of architecture, nature, or just love epic viewpoints, this spot has something for everyone. Plus, it’s less crowded than Chongqing’s other hotspots, so you can enjoy it in peace!

(Note: The bridge officially opened in January 2010, so it’s modern yet timeless—perfect for your travel bucket list!)