Sanxian Bridge

Sanxian Bridge

Sanxian Bridge is a cultural heritage site protected by Anhui Province.

Sanxian Bridge (also known as Stone Bridge) is located at Dananmenkou. The bridge is tall and majestic, a three-arch stone structure with a main span of 38 meters and a width of 7 meters, crossing the Xiaonan River for nearly a century. The entire bridge contains no steel reinforcement or a single drop of cement, yet it is extraordinarily sturdy—an impressive marvel. Legend has it that in the early years of the Republic of China, Monk Bao spent all his lifelong alms to build it. The ancient bridge connects the three counties of Feixi, Shucheng, and Lujiang, hence the name “Three-County Bridge.” The historic bridge blends seamlessly with the Huizhou-style architecture at its ends, creating a spectacular scene.

Ten-Thousand-Mu Lotus Garden

It was first built during the Song Dynasty, boasting a history of over a thousand years. It has been repaired through generations, with the last restoration taking place in the 15th year of the Republic of China—nearly a hundred years ago. Because of its long history, the bridge shares a deep bond with the people of Sanhe, who affectionately call it the Stone Bridge. From the bridge’s surface, you can clearly see how the thick bluestone slabs have been polished very smooth over time—all silent witnesses of the years.

Viewed from the side, you can clearly see white traces at the arches—these are traces of glutinous rice paste. In the past, when there was no cement mortar, bridge builders mixed glutinous rice juice, alum, egg whites, and other materials, then poured the mixture into the stone joints to bond the large bluestones together. At the top of both piers, there are protruding sections—those are dragon heads. On the opposite side of the bridge is a dragon tail. These are not just decorative elements but also serve as crucial flood warning indicators: if the water reaches the dragon head, it signals that the flooding is severe and dangerous. Having endured a thousand years of wind and rain, Sanxian Bridge remains solid and continues to serve an important function.

So, who exactly built this bridge? There is a legendary and moving story behind it. Back then, there was no bridge here, only a ferry run by a man surnamed Cao, nicknamed “Cao the Big Ferryman.” Because he was harsh and charged exorbitant fees, the ferry was also called the “Hell Ferry.” One day, a monk came to Sanhe and used this ferry. Known as Monk Bao (not because he was surnamed Bao, but because he had a bump on the back of his neck), he got into a dispute with Cao the Big Ferryman over the fare. Deeply moved by the experience, Monk Bao resolved to build a bridge here to benefit the people on both sides. He traveled far and wide to beg for alms and donations, giving everything he had. His black hair turned white, and eventually, he succeeded in building Sanxian Bridge. Unfortunately, before the bridge was completed, Monk Bao passed away due to overwork and illness. That is why the people of Sanhe also lovingly call this bridge the Stone Bridge—because the most heartfelt name expresses the deepest gratitude.