Yunlong Bridge in Yangbi County, Dali
Overview
Yunlong Bridge (云龙桥) is located over the Yangbi River Canyon (漾濞江峡谷) in Yangbi County (漾濞县), Dali (大理). Locally known as the “Tie Chain Bridge” (铁链子桥) or “Suspension Bridge,” it is the only surviving ancient iron chain suspension bridge on the Bunan Ancient Road (博南古道) and is recognized as the oldest existing suspension bridge in China. Yunlong Bridge is situated approximately 40 kilometers northwest of Dali City (大理市), spanning the Yangbi River, a tributary of the Lancang River (澜沧江). It is located south of Yangbi Shangjie Town (漾濞上街镇). The bridge was built during the Ming Dynasty (明代) and has a history of over 500 years. It continues to connect both banks of the river with its old, rough iron chains. At the entrance of the bridge, there is a newly erected stone tablet that recounts the history of Yunlong Bridge.
A legend tells that one morning, a streak of colorful clouds appeared at the western corner of Yangbi Ancient Town (漾濞古镇), stretching across the river like a dragon crossing the waters. The locals believed it was a divine dragon revealing itself, indicating a new bridge site. Consequently, they built the iron chain bridge on that spot, which became a notable sight known as “Iron Lock Cloud Dragon” (铁锁云龙). After enduring over 500 years of weathering, Yunlong Bridge silently preserves the memories of travelers and merchants who once rested here along the ancient Bunan trading route, watching the clouds rise and fall.
Structure
Yunlong Bridge is oriented east to west and features eight long iron chains parallel on both banks, supporting the bridge deck. The total length of the bridge is 40 meters, with a width of 3.2 meters and a height of 12.7 meters. Pavilions are installed on the bridge piers. Historical evidence from the Dong family genealogy (董氏家谱), which was relocated from Xizhou (喜州) to Yunlong County, confirms that the bridge was constructed after the Ming Chenghua period, specifically during the Hongzhi period (公元1488～1505年).
Historical Development
Yunlong Bridge is documented in Yang Shen’s (杨慎) “Records of Yunnan Journey” (滇程记) and Xu Xiake’s (徐霞客) “Travel Notes.” According to the “Chronicles of Yongchang Prefecture” (永昌府志), the bridge underwent repairs in the 13th year of the Kangxi era (公元1674年) and the 3rd year of the Guangxu era (公元1870年) by Governor Nuomutu (诺穆图) and General Jiang Zonghan (蒋宗汉) from Tengchong (腾越).
On August 24, 1966, a devastating flood destroyed the eastern bridge pier. The bridge was restored from winter 1994 to spring 1996. Following its restoration, a continuous stream of merchants and horse caravans traversed through Yangbi, and Yunlong Bridge remains a vital passage on the Bunan Ancient Road, playing an irreplaceable role in the daily lives of local residents. Legend has it that every 30 to 50 years, the bridge requires major repairs.
In 1993, Yunlong Bridge was designated as a key provincial cultural relic protection unit.
Legend
A beautiful legend surrounds the Yunlong Ancient Bridge: it is said that people attempted to build multiple large bridges over the Yang River (漾江) for easier transportation, but all collapsed due to the swift river currents and mountain floods. Just when the locals were despairing of ever constructing a bridge, they saw a rainbow rise over Cangshan (苍山), resembling a giant dragon arching over the Yangbi River. A fairy crossed the river on the rainbow, inspiring the people to build the bridge where the rainbow touched down, leading to their success. Thus, the bridge was named “Yunlong Bridge” (云龙桥).
How to Get There
By Bus
- From Dali City (大理市): Take a bus to Yangbi County, which takes about 1-1.5 hours.
- From Yangbi County: Use local transport like taxis or motorbike taxis to reach Yunlong Bridge.
By Car
If driving, renting a car in Dali is a viable option. The distance from Dali City to Yunlong Bridge is about 70 kilometers, approximately a 1.5-hour drive. Follow signs to Yangbi County and then to the bridge location.
Travel Tips
- Best Time to Visit: Spring and autumn are ideal for pleasant weather and beautiful scenery.
- Photography: Capture stunning views of the bridge against the backdrop of the canyon.
- Respect Local Customs: Acknowledge the cultural significance of the site.
- Comfortable Footwear: Prepare for walking and exploring the surrounding area.
- Explore Nearby Attractions: Consider visiting other historical sites along the Bunan Ancient Road for a fuller experience.
