Double Bridge and Riverside Architecture

Double Bridge and Riverside Architecture

The Double Bridge and Riverside Architecture is a cultural relic protection unit of Jiangsu Province.

Double Bridge and Riverside Architecture

When visiting Zhouzhuang, the Double Bridge is an absolute must-see. Commonly known as the Key Bridge, it consists of a stone arch bridge — Shide Bridge — and a stone beam bridge — Yong’an Bridge. Built during the Wanli era of the Ming Dynasty (1573–1619), Shide Bridge was funded by local residents Xu Songquan and Xu Zhuxi, while Yong’an Bridge was funded by local resident Xu Zhengwu. Shide Bridge is 16 meters long, 3 meters wide, and has a span of 5.9 meters. It crosses the North-South Market River, with stone steps on the eastern end extending into the streets. Yong’an Bridge is 10.3 meters long, 2.4 meters wide, and spans 5 meters. It is built flat over the mouth of Yinzibang Creek, with a bridge opening so narrow that only small boats can pass through. Its railings are made of rough-hewn stone slabs. The Double Bridge best captures the charm of the ancient town. With its emerald waters and surrounding greenery, the gentle sound of boat oars echoes as small boats pass through the arches. Throughout the seasons, art students from various art schools gather here, immersed in sketching, while photography enthusiasts capture the perfect shot. From the riverside, the key-shaped Double Bridge along with the nearby Qing Dynasty stone arch bridge — Taiping Bridge — can be framed together in a single shot, showcasing three ancient bridges over the Market River.

Jiangsu Provincial Cultural Relics Protection Unit – Fifth Batch, October 2002 Double Bridge and Riverside Architecture, Qing Dynasty, Zhouzhuang Town, Kunshan City

Zhouzhuang Town: Zhouzhuang is located in the northeastern part of Kunshan, bordering Taicang City and Changshu City. It was formed by merging the former Zhouzhuang, Xinzhen, and Luyang towns, and is designated as the central area of the northern urban district by the Kunshan Municipal Party Committee and Government. The town covers an area of 81.56 square kilometers, with a permanent local population of 43,000 and a migrant population of 60,000. It administers two subdistrict offices — Xinzhen and Luyang — 12 community committees, and 15 administrative villages, comprising a total of 112 residential groups and 382 villager groups. It has been honored as a “Nationally Recognized Beautiful Environment Town,” a “Jiangsu Provincial Civilized Town,” and a “Suzhou Municipal Model for Investment Promotion”… More details about Zhouzhuang Town++

Further Reading:

· Fifth Batch of Jiangsu Provincial Cultural Relics Protection Units