Geographical Location

Zouhun Bridge sits within the Songcheng Lijiang Ancient Town complex in Yulong Naxi Autonomous County, Lijiang, Yunnan. While the original “walking marriage” culture (a unique dating tradition of the Moso people) is linked to Lugu Lake, this bridge offers a cultural snapshot of that tradition in a more accessible location. The bridge is nestled in a traditional Naxi-style town filled with wooden buildings, stone pathways, and flowing water—perfect for a half-day escape.

Getting There

  • By bus: Take Bus #101 or #104 to “Songcheng Lijiang” station, then walk 5 minutes to the entrance.
  • By taxi: Tell the driver to go to “Songcheng Lijiang Ancient Town” (they’ll know it). It’s about 20 minutes from downtown Lijiang.
  • On foot: If you’re already exploring Lijiang Old Town, it’s a 30-minute stroll southwest along scenic paths.

Natural Scenery

Zouhun Bridge isn’t surrounded by mountains or lakes like Lugu Lake’s famous bridge, but it’s still picturesque. The area features:

  • Carved wooden bridge: Painted red with Naxi-style patterns, crossing a small canal.
  • Flowering plants: Especially beautiful in spring when azaleas and cherry blossoms bloom.
  • Stone pathways: Lined with lanterns, ideal for evening strolls.
    At night, the bridge glows under lantern lights, creating a cozy, almost magical atmosphere.

Cultural Highlights

This bridge is a tribute to Moso traditions. In the Moso culture, “walking marriage” means couples meet freely without formal weddings. Here, you can:

  • See traditional Naxi costumes on staff and performers.
  • Watch short cultural shows near the bridge, explaining the history of walking marriage.
  • Spot symbolic details: The bridge’s railings feature carvings of lovers meeting under the moon—a nod to the custom.
    Even if you’ve never heard of this tradition, the bridge’s charm makes it worth a visit.

Practical Amenities

  • Food: Nearby stalls serve Naxi snacks like yak yogurt and roasted corn. There’s also a teahouse with views of the bridge.
  • Souvenirs: Buy handcrafted jewelry or painted fans near the entrance.
  • Restrooms: Clean facilities are available inside the Songcheng complex.
  • Accessibility: The bridge is flat and easy to walk, but the cobblestone paths might be tricky for strollers.

What to Expect

Visiting Zouhun Bridge feels like stepping into a Naxi storybook. During daytime, it’s peaceful—perfect for photos or a quiet chat. At night, the area transforms into a lively spot with music, food stalls, and lanterns. If you’re lucky, you might catch a traditional dance performance nearby.

Pro tip: Pair your visit with a walk around Songcheng’s Ancient Town. The bridge is just one part of a larger complex with theaters, shops, and restaurants.

Whether you’re a culture buff or just want a cute photo spot, Zouhun Bridge offers a tasty slice of Yunnan’s heritage without the crowds of Lugu Lake. Perfect for travelers short on time but eager to experience something unique!