Luoyang Bridge

What it is

Luoyang Bridge, also known as Wan'an Bridge, was constructed between 1053 and 1059 during the Northern Song dynasty under the supervision of the scholar-official Cai Xiang. It is celebrated as the first stone bridge to cross a tidal sea in China, stretching about 834 meters across the Luoyang River. The bridge's innovative design includes boat-shaped piers to break the current and raft foundations created by dumping stones and cultivating oysters to bind them together—a technique that earned it the nickname 'oyster bridge'. For centuries it served as a vital link on the maritime Silk Road, facilitating trade and cultural exchange.

Today, Luoyang Bridge is a National Key Cultural Relic and a 4A-rated attraction. It has undergone numerous restorations, most recently in the 1990s, preserving its historic appearance. The bridge is lined with stone statues, pagodas, and pavilions, and offers panoramic views of the river and surrounding wetlands. As you walk across, you'll notice the original stone slabs and the ingenious oyster shells still visible on some piers. Our guides can explain the bridge's engineering feats and its role in Quanzhou's prosperity, making your visit both educational and inspiring.

Highlights

• Ancient Engineering — See the original raft foundations and oyster-shell reinforcement that made this 11th-century bridge stand for nearly a millennium.
• Stone Statues and Pagodas — Admire the detailed carvings of lions, warriors, and small stone pagodas that line the bridge, each with its own story.
• Maritime Silk Road Legacy — Walk the route that once carried merchants and envoys, linking Quanzhou to the world.
• Scenic River Views — Enjoy sweeping vistas of the Luoyang River and its tidal flats, especially beautiful at sunrise or sunset.
• Cai Xiang Memorial — Visit the nearby shrine dedicated to the bridge's visionary builder, a key figure in Song dynasty history.

How to get there

Luoyang Bridge is about 10 kilometers northeast of Quanzhou city center. The easiest way is by taxi or ride-hailing app (around ¥30-40 from downtown). Alternatively, take bus No. 19 or 13 to Luoyang Bridge Station. For a stress-free experience, we can arrange a private car with an English-speaking guide. Combine it with a visit to Quanzhou's old town or the Maritime Museum for a full day of exploration.

Tickets & practical info

Admission is free. The bridge is open 24 hours, but the on-site museum and some pavilions operate from 8:00 to 17:30. No booking is required for individuals. For foreign visitors, it's advisable to carry some cash in case small vendors don't accept foreign cards; however, WeChat Pay and Alipay are widely accepted in Quanzhou for other purchases.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit is during the cooler months from October to April, avoiding the summer heat and typhoon season. Early morning (around 7-9 AM) or late afternoon (4-6 PM) offers soft light for photography and fewer crowds. Weekdays are quieter than weekends. If you visit at low tide, you can see the oyster shells on the piers more clearly.

Tips from our guides

• Wear comfortable walking shoes as the bridge is about 1 kilometer long and the stone surface can be uneven.
• Bring a hat and sunscreen—there is little shade on the bridge, especially midday.
• Visit at low tide to see the exposed foundations and oyster shells; check tide tables in advance.
• Respect the historical site: do not climb on the stone statues or remove any shells.
• Combine your visit with the nearby Luoyang Old Town for local snacks and a glimpse of traditional Minnan culture.

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