Ancient Ropeway Path of Shaoxing

Ancient Ropeway Path of Shaoxing

The Ancient Ropeway Path of Shaoxing is a National Key Cultural Relics Protection Unit.

The Ancient Ropeway Path is located in Shaoxing City, Zhejiang Province.

Originally called "Qiantang," "Yuandao Tang," or "Qian Dao Qiao," the Ancient Ropeway Path was first constructed in the 10th year of the Yuanhe era during the reign of Emperor Xianzong of the Tang Dynasty (815 AD). Built along the Xiao, Shao, and Yu Canals, it stretches from east to west across Shaoxing, covering more than 40 kilometers, and runs parallel to today’s Hangzhou–Ningbo railway and highway. It functioned as a towpath for boats and a windbreak in ancient times.

Since its construction in the Tang Dynasty, the Ancient Ropeway Path has been destroyed and rebuilt multiple times. The surviving central section of the path extends from Keqiao to Nanqianqing, spanning 7 kilometers in length and 1.5 to 2 meters in width. At times the path is flanked by water on both sides, while at others it runs along the bank. Its terrain varies between rugged and flat. For sections over water, bridge piers were built approximately every two meters to regulate water flow. These piers support flagstones laid in a pattern of three vertical and one horizontal slab, creating undulating ribbons that stretch endlessly over the water, embodying the distinctive charm of the water town. The sections along the shore are entirely built with flagstones solidly laid from the riverbed, topped with rectangular bluestones. The Ancient Ropeway Path features hundreds of flat bridges, arched bridges, and beam bridges. Notable ones along the Keqiao to Nanqianqing section include the Yinyu Bridge, Taiping Bridge, Yuzhu Bridge, Banqiao, Xingyi Bridge, and Qingjiang Bridge. Among them, the Taiping Bridge was first built in the 48th year of the Wanli era of the Ming Dynasty (1620 AD) and renovated during the Qing Dynasty. With a well-structured and solidly built frame, exquisitely carved details, and an elegant form, it spans both banks of the Guantang River. Standing on the bridge, visitors can enjoy picturesque views of clear waters, passing boats, and the ropeway path resembling a chain—offering a scene so poetic and breathtakingly beautiful that it is truly a feast for the eyes. (Source: National Cultural Heritage Administration)

Admission

Free

Opening Hours

All day

Location

Xiaozuo Road, Shaoxing County, Shaoxing City, Zhejiang Province — Section of the Yue–Dong Yuan River from Shaoxing to Xiaoshan

Further Reading:

· Third Batch of National Key Cultural Relics Protection Units