Geography & Location

Yanwu Bridge sits along the scenic Xiamen Island Ring Road in Siming District, Fujian Province. This bridge isn’t just any ordinary crossing—it’s literally the closest bridge to sea level in the world, with its deck just 5 meters above the water! When the tide rises, the ocean almost touches the bottom of Yanwu Bridge, creating a surreal sight where land and sea blend seamlessly. Nearby, you’ll spot the iconic Twin Towers (a pair of skyscrapers) and catch glimpses of Gulangyu Island across the water.

How to Get There

Reaching Yanwu Bridge is easy! If you’re staying in downtown Xiamen, take Bus 29 or 872 to the “Yanwu Bridge” stop. Taxis are also convenient, but be sure to mention “Yanwu Bridge” to avoid confusion. For an active start, rent a bike—the bridge is part of the stunning Xiamen Island Ring Road, perfect for cycling. Plus, walking along the bridge’s open-air observation platform (which doesn’t allow cars) lets you soak in views without traffic noise.

Natural Scenery Highlights

Yanwu Bridge’s charm lies in its ultra-low design. At just 5 meters high, it feels like the ocean is whispering right beneath you—especially during high tide, when waves lap against the bridge’s pillars. Come sunset, the bridge transforms into a black silhouette against orange-pink skies, framed by ships sailing below and cars streaming overhead. At night, its lights aren’t from tall lampposts but low-key ground lamps embedded in the railings. These create a spiral of glowing lines along Yanwu Bridge, making it look like a ribbon of stars over the water.

Local Life & Architecture

What makes Yanwu Bridge special? Its design prioritizes nature over flashiness. Unlike other bridges with towering lights, Yanwu Bridge uses subtle护栏 lighting to avoid disrupting coastal views. By day, locals flock here to jog, practice tai chi, or fly kites. You’ll often see families picnicking under the bridge or couples watching the sunset. The bridge’s simplicity reflects Xiamen’s laid-back vibe—it’s less about being a “tourist attraction” and more about blending into daily life.

Best Time to Visit

For drama, visit Yanwu Bridge during golden hour (1-2 hours before sunset). The contrast between the dark bridge, colorful sky, and shimmering sea is Instagram gold. Stay till nightfall for a different magic: the bridge’s lights mirror the stars, and Gulangyu Island’s twinkling shoreline adds to the ambiance. Pro tip: Weekdays are less crowded, but weekends bring lively markets near the bridge’s entrance.

Photo Tips & Experience

The observation deck on Yanwu Bridge is your prime spot. Zoom in for shots of ships passing underneath or wide-angle views of Gulangyu. For a unique angle, stand under the bridge at high tide—it looks like the ocean is swallowing the structure! If you’re into drones, fly one up to capture the full spiral of Yanwu Bridge against the coast. Just remember: No trip to Xiamen is complete without feeling the salty breeze and hearing the crashing waves from this “bridge-meets-sea” wonder.

This blend of nature, smart design, and local charm makes Yanwu Bridge more than a photo op—it’s a window into Xiamen’s soul. Whether you’re here for the sunset, the lights, or the people, Yanwu Bridge offers a quieter, deeper way to connect with the city.