Ouyang Bridge

Ouyang Bridge

Ouyang Bridge is a cultural relic protection unit of Xiangshan County.

The Ouyang Bridge in Ruyayang was built during the Republic of China era. It is located at the foot of the western slope of Xishaling, about 2.5 kilometers northeast of Ruyang Village, Ruyang Township. This three-arch bridge is made of rough stones, stretches from east to west, spans 23 meters over a stream, is 24 meters above the stream, and 4.5 meters wide. The eastern approach is 11 meters long, and the western approach is 9 meters long. The bridge deck is paved with cobblestones.

According to the Republican-era Xiangshan County Annals, “Ouyang Bridge is located 35 li west of the county, beneath Xishaling (as noted in the Jiajing Annals). It lies 40 li west of the county and was formerly called Ruyangyang Bridge. It was renovated during the Chenghua era. When Deputy Prefect Ouyang Mao passed by, coinciding with the bridge’s inauguration, local residents asked him to name it, and so it was renamed.” It was renovated again in 1948. Due to damage caused by the floods from Typhoon No. 11 in 1997, it underwent another major restoration between May and July 1998.

Ouyang Bridge spans the Yuanxi River, the longest stream in Xiangshan. During the peak rainy season around spring and summer, as the waters rush noisily, the sight of Ouyang Bridge lying peacefully across the stream offers a uniquely charming view.