Shuicheng Tianqiao (Heavenly Bridge)

Shuicheng Tianqiao

The Tianqiao Tourist Scenic Area is located in the Ganhe region of Jinping Township, Shuicheng County, approximately 71 kilometers from the city center. Covering an area of 9.4 square kilometers, it is an important part of the Nankai Provincial Scenic Spot. Tianqiao is a remnant section of a collapsed limestone cave. The bridge stands 136 meters high, spans 60 meters, with a roof arch thickness of 15 meters, and a bridge deck length of 30 meters. According to research by Chinese and international karst geologists, Shuicheng Tianqiao is the highest highway natural bridge in the world. Originally called "Tianxian Bridge" (Fairy Bridge), it is also reputed as the "No. 1 Bridge in China" and is the most remarkable among the many natural bridges in the area. Towering into the clouds, it resembles a rainbow stretching across a sheer chasm. From the bridge, visitors can admire the surrounding mountains that look like undulating waves. The nearby area features numerous caves, underground rivers, and karst valleys, with rugged rocks at the valley bottom, lush trees, and murmuring streams. The beautiful legend of the Fairy Bridge adds an air of mystery to the site. With its unique karst landscape and rich ethnic culture, Tianqiao forms a comprehensive tourist destination that combines sightseeing and exploration.

To reach the Shuicheng Tianqiao Scenic Area from the city, follow the Shuinan Third-Class Highway for 71 kilometers. Currently, you can take a bus from Shuicheng to Jinping, get off at the Jinping Township government, and then transfer to a minivan for an 8-kilometer ride. There are four to six buses per day, with a fare of 15 yuan per person. No entrance fee is charged. At night, you can stay at local farmhouses in Jinping to enjoy rural cuisine or return to the city.

Jinping Township: Jinping is a remote ethnic township in the northeast of Shuicheng County, situated at the junction of Shuicheng, Nayong, and Hezhang counties. It covers a total area of 107.14 square kilometers. The arable land area is 28,785 mu, with 4,200 mu of suitable forest and pasture hills and grassland, and 28,962 mu of forested land. It administers 16 administrative villages, 106 villager groups, 5,415 households, and a population of 21,804. The area is home to ethnic groups including Miao, Yi, Bouyei, and Han, among which ethnic minorities account for 2,502 households and 11,257 people, making up 51.7% of the total population. The main grain crops are corn and potatoes, with flue-cured tobacco as the pillar industry, along with economic fruit orchards... More detailed information about Jinping Township++