Gold Tortoise Jade Rainbow Bridge, Footbridge in Beihai Park, Beijing, China.
The Gold Tortoise Jade Rainbow Bridge is a footbridge in Beihai Park that connects different sections of the grounds across water, featuring traditional Chinese architectural details and ornate stonework. The structure displays classical design elements typical of imperial gardens, with a curved form that helps visitors move smoothly between the spaces.
The bridge was built during the Qing Dynasty and served as a frequently used passage for the imperial family, particularly Emperor Qianlong. It marks the division between the Central Sea and the Northern Sea within the park's historic layout.
The bridge's name draws from Chinese mythology: the gold tortoise symbolizes long life, while the jade rainbow represents harmony between heaven and earth. These symbols shape how the structure looks and how visitors understand its cultural meaning.
The bridge is accessible during regular park hours throughout the year and is easy to navigate on foot. Morning and late afternoon visits offer the best lighting for photography and clearer views of the ornamental details.
The bridge appears in historical paintings and imperial records from the Qing period, including in a portrait of Emperor Qianlong on horseback. This documentation shows the structure held importance in the daily life of the imperial court.
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