The Living Fossil of Huizhou Bridges: Anshun Covered Bridge and the Romance of the Tunxi River

The "First Bridge of Huizhou" on the Tunxi River

1.Located in Tunxi: District, Huangshan City, Anhui Province, the Anshun Covered Bridge (also known as Tunxi Covered Bridge) spans the majestic Tunxi River. Built originally during the Ming Dynasty and reconstructed in the 58th year of the Qianlong reign of the Qing Dynasty (1793) by a wealthy merchant, this bridge is a masterpiece of ancient Chinese engineering and a symbol of the region's rich history. It measures 128 meters in length, 8 meters in width, and 12 meters in height. As the longest surviving wood-arch covered bridge in China, it is often hailed as the "Living Fossil of Chinese Covered Bridges" and the "First Bridge of Huizhou." Unlike simple crossing structures, Anshun Covered Bridge is a vibrant cultural space where architecture, commerce, and leisure converge, reflecting the prosperity of the ancient Huizhou merchants who once utilized this river as a vital trade artery for tea, timber, and salt,,,.

A Marvel of Wood Arch Engineering

The architectural brilliance of Anshun Covered Bridge lies in its adherence to the Song Dynasty's Yingzao Fashi (State Building Standards). The bridge features a unique wood arch structure with "9 holes and 11 piers," constructed entirely without the use of a single nail or rivet. Instead, it relies on complex tenon and mortise joints, a testament to the wisdom of Huizhou craftsmen. The bridge is topped with a traditional corridor house (Langwu), featuring red pillars, green tiles, and exquisite wood carvings of dragons, phoenixes, and flowers. Walking through the corridor feels like stepping into a historical painting. Inside, the beams are adorned with colorful murals depicting Huizhou myths, such as the legend of the Yellow Dragon (Huanglong) and stories of Hui merchants, adding a layer of artistic depth to the structural marvel,,.

A Hub of Tea Culture and Hui Opera

2.Anshun Covered: Bridge is more than a passageway; it is a destination in itself, embodying the leisurely lifestyle of the Jiangnan water towns. The bridge houses traditional tea houses and shops where visitors can sit by the railings, sip famous Huizhou tea (like Huangshan Maofeng), and watch the river flow beneath. Historically, this was a bustling hub for merchants to negotiate and rest. Today, it remains a cultural venue where traditional Hui Opera performances and storytelling (Pingshu) sessions are often held on the bridge's stage. The sound of opera singing blending with the flowing water creates an enchanting atmosphere that transports visitors back to the prosperous Ming and Qing dynasties,,.

Night Views and River Romance

While the bridge is majestic by day, it transforms into a dreamlike spectacle at night. When the sun sets, the bridge is illuminated by hundreds of red lanterns and golden lights, casting shimmering reflections on the Tunxi River. This view is considered one of the most romantic scenes in Huangshan. The bridge is also a focal point for traditional festivals. During the Dragon Boat Festival, dragon boat races are held in the river below, cheered on by crowds on the bridge. During the Mid-Autumn Festival, a "Bridge Lantern Fair" illuminates the night, creating a dazzling display of lights and colors. Whether you are admiring the "Anshun Sunset" or exploring the nearby ancient Hui-style villages, the bridge offers a perfect blend of visual beauty and cultural immersion,,.