Yalu River Broken Bridge

The Yalu River Broken Bridge is a railway crossing at the China-North Korea border in Dandong that survives today as a partial structure. Four steel truss spans remain standing on stone foundations, preserving evidence of the original construction that once fully crossed the river.

The structure was built in 1911 by Japanese engineers to serve as a transport link across the river. American bombing during the Korean War destroyed most of the bridge, leaving only the section on the Chinese side standing to this day.

The site serves as a place where visitors can observe the opposite bank and contemplate the relationship between the two nations separated by water. People gather here to reflect on the shared history that once connected these shores.

The site provides viewing platforms and information panels to help visitors understand the structure and its past. Comfortable shoes are recommended as you will walk along the remains, and allowing time for a leisurely visit lets you observe the ruins from different angles.

The structure retains its original swing mechanism that was designed to rotate and allow tall vessels to pass through the waterway. This engineering solution was essential during operation to accommodate river traffic.

Location: Zhenxing District

Inception: October 1911

Official opening: October 1911

Width: 11 m

Made from material: steel

Part of: China–North Korea border

GPS coordinates: 40.11620,124.38930

Latest update: December 7, 2025 20:40