Geography & Transport

The Nanjing Yangtze River Bridge spans the Yangtze River between Gulou District and Pukou District in Nanjing, Jiangsu Province. Its address is listed as No. 6 Jiangshan Road, Gulou District, though visitors will find it easiest to locate the bridge by searching for its iconic twin towers rising over the river. To reach here, take Nanjing Metro Line 1 to Zhongsheng Station (Exit 1) and walk 10 minutes, or hop on buses 16, 34, or Y2 for direct drops near the bridge’s southern entrance. For a scenic approach, taxis or ride-hailing apps like Didi are convenient, especially if arriving from Nanjing Lukou Airport (about 40-minute drive).

Natural Landscapes

Stretching 6,772 meters across the Yangtze, the Nanjing Yangtze River Bridge offers jaw-dropping views of China’s “mother river.” From the walkway, you’ll see barges, fishing boats, and even occasional dolphins breaking the river’s surface. At sunset, the golden light reflects off the water, framing the bridge’s steel arches—a perfect moment for photos. By night, the real magic happens: over 1,000 LED lights illuminate the bridge, turning it into a glowing ribbon across the dark river. Locals call this the “Rainbow Bridge” because the lights create a vibrant, almost otherworldly effect.

Cultural Highlights

This isn’t just any bridge—it’s China’s first self-designed double-decker rail-and-road bridge, completed in 1968. Guides often joke, “Before this bridge, foreign experts said China couldn’t build something like it!” Today, it’s a symbol of Chinese engineering pride. Walk along the 2.4km pedestrian pathway (upper level) and notice the cast-iron sculptures embedded in the railings. Each tells stories: workers building the bridge, local folk scenes, and dragons (symbolizing China’s strength). At both ends, 25m-tall bridge towers stand like guards, blending Soviet-era design with Chinese details. These towers are topped with red stars—a nod to the bridge’s construction during the Cultural Revolution era.

Facilities & Parks

Below the southern end of the bridge lies Dajiao Nanpu Park, a riverside green space with benches, pavilions, and a small Yangtze River Museum (free entry). Families love picnicking here, especially on weekends. The park also hosts seasonal events, like kite festivals in spring or light shows projected onto the bridge’s pillars. For snacks, nearby vendors sell liangpi (grass jelly) and jianbing (savory crepes)—perfect for cooling down after a walk.

Visiting Experience

Explore the Nanjing Yangtze River Bridge at different times for varied vibes:

  • Morning: Fewer crowds, soft morning light, and mist rising over the river.
  • Afternoon: Catch student groups practicing instruments or elderly couples dancing yangge (traditional fan dances) near the towers.
  • Evening: Stay till 7 PM for the nightly light-up ceremony. The bridge transforms into a giant lantern, while reflections dance on the water. For a unique angle, take the ferry from Baizhou Park (Pukou side) to see the bridge from below.

A visit here isn’t just about sightseeing—it’s stepping into a living chapter of China’s modern history. Bring comfy shoes, a camera, and curiosity. As one local guide told me, “This bridge? It’s Nanjing’s heartbeat.”