Xijin Bridge

Xijin Bridge is situated in the western part of Yongkang City, spanning the Yongkang River. Over 600 years ago, this spot served as a river ferry landing, home to the renowned scenic sight "Evening Ferry at Xijin", one of the Eight Sights of Yongkang City. When the sun dips below the horizon, the river surface shimmers with rippling light. Standing on a boat bow, visitors watch swallows skimming the distant sky and wild ducks darting across the water, creating an exceptionally gorgeous view.

The original wooden bridge was first completed in the 57th year of the Kangxi reign of the Qing Dynasty (1718). It suffered repeated damage and reconstruction over the centuries. The final major renovation took place in the 12th year of the Jiaqing reign of the Qing Dynasty (1807), and a stone stele inscribed with Records of Xijin Bridge was erected at the bridgehead to commemorate the project. This renovation not only restored the bridge’s original appearance but also made it sturdier and grander than before.

Xijin Bridge boasts an ingenious design and distinctive shape. It features 13 stone piers and 14 spans, measuring 70 zhang in length, 1.5 zhang in width and 1.4 zhang in height. Timber frame superstructures rest atop the piers, topped with a covered gallery of 55 bays. Three two-storey pavilions stand at the bridge’s centre, combining exquisite aesthetics with practical functionality.

The stone piers are arranged in a gentle arc curving downstream. When viewed from north to south, the bridge stretches endlessly out of sight, presenting an imposing momentum. The rafters and purlins on the roof are coated with earthy red paint, lending the whole structure an antique charm. Dense rows of wooden beams and columns line the gallery, with low crossbeams paired with wooden benches along the west side for visitors to rest. The two inner sides of the bridge offer ample space for strolling, fitted with lattice windows that open up far-reaching views.

Ancient bridge specialists note that only five such ancient covered bridges survive nationwide, and Xijin Bridge in Yongkang is the oldest and longest among them.

Both Xijin Bridge and Shuxi Bridge in Wuyi are covered wooden arch bridges, affectionately known as "Sister Bridges". In 1997, Xijin Bridge was designated a Provincial Major Historical and Cultural Site Protected at the Provincial Level