Xijin Bridge, Wooden bridge in Yongkang, China
Xijin Bridge is a wooden bridge spanning the Yongkang River, supported by twelve stone piers that connect thirteen wooden spans across the water. The piers measure about 5.6 meters long and 3.3 meters wide, while the wooden beams average about 13 meters in length.
Construction began during the Ming Dynasty, and in 1718 the wooden piers were replaced with stone to improve durability. This transformation marked a turning point in the structure's ability to serve the community across many generations.
The name Xijin refers to the bridge's western location, showing how local people named places based on geography. Visitors walking across can see how such practical naming reflected the daily orientation methods of the community.
The bridge is straightforward to walk across with its flat wooden surface and accessible design. Visit during dry weather to avoid slippery conditions on the wooden deck.
The original bridge was significantly longer before reconstruction, featuring fifteen piers and sixteen spans, showing how it changed over time. This reduction in size may reflect practical choices made to simplify or adapt the structure.
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