The Ancient Pontoon Bridge in Ganzhou

　　 The Ancient Pontoon Bridge in Ganzhou, officially named Huimin Bridge, is also known as Dongjin Bridge or Donghe Pontoon Bridge. The bridge is approximately 400 meters long and was formed by binding over 100 small boats together with ropes. It was first built during the Qiandao era of the Song Dynasty (1163–1173), boasting a history of more than 800 years. Constructed under the direction of Governor Hong Mai, it connects both sides of the Zhang River and opens at scheduled times every day to allow the passage of merchant ships.

　　 Ganzhou’s urban area is surrounded by water on three sides. Due to the wide river surface, ferries were the main means of crossing in the past. During the Song Dynasty, as Ganzhou's economy flourished, pontoon bridges were built across the Zhang and Gong Rivers — namely the East River, West River, and South River Bridges — to improve connectivity between urban and rural areas. After the founding of the People's Republic of China, the West River and South River Bridges were dismantled due to the construction of highway bridges and replaced by modern crossings in the 1980s. Only the Jianchunmen Pontoon Bridge, preserved as a historical and cultural landmark of this nationally recognized historic city, remains in service for the people of Ganzhou. The East River Pontoon Bridge has thus become a “national treasure”-level cultural relic in today’s Ganzhou.

　　 Originally constructed during the Southern Song Dynasty by a notable historical figure named Hong Mai, a native of Poyang, Jiangxi, who once served as the governor of Ganzhou. He authored “Rongzhai Suibi,” one of the most extensive and influential miscellanies of the Tang and Song Dynasties, which was greatly admired by Chairman Mao. This pontoon bridge stretches 400 meters and is made up of 100 small boats arranged in sets of three, divided into 33 groups. These groups are linked by ropes and anchored to the riverbed using steel cables and anchors. During busy shipping seasons on the Gan River, the bridge is opened twice daily — at 9:00 AM and 4:00 PM — to let vessels pass. In the past, pontoon bridges were common in riverside cities, but they have become rare elsewhere. This ancient transportation facility has been in use in Ganzhou for over 800 years, forming a unique cultural feature of the historic city. On the other side of the bridge lies suburban countryside and some factories. In summer evenings, many locals swim beneath the bridge, while at night, it becomes a popular spot for cooling off. Young couples often come here to enjoy romantic moments.

　　 This nearly thousand-year-old pontoon bridge is a source of pride for the people of Ganzhou. Stepping onto the bridge not only offers a strong sense of ancient history, but also reveals the industriousness, wisdom, creativity, and innovative spirit of the ancient Ganzhou people. Along the bridge, you can see scenes of washerwomen by the river, elderly fishermen, and the flow of townsfolk and villagers — motorcyclists, cyclists, people carrying loads, parents with children, visitors, and students — all intermingling into a beautiful tapestry. Over the past 800 years, this pontoon bridge has weathered countless storms and battles. It has been rebuilt, repaired, and restored through the ages, standing resilient like an indomitable elder along the banks of the Zhang River. Together with the city’s ancient, winding city walls, the majestic and picturesque Bajing Pavilion, and the solemn, weighty Yongjin Gate, it echoes the sounds of the Gan River, benefiting the people of Ganzhou. As a vital link between urban and rural areas, it is a unique scenic attraction in Ganzhou, hailed as a true marvel of the city.

　　 Time Needed

　　 Approximately 1 hour

　　 Transportation: Take bus routes 7 or K3 and get off at Jianchunmen Station.

　　 Admission Fee

　　 Free entry

　　 Opening Hours

　　 Open all day

　　 Location

　　 Zhanggong District, Ganzhou City, Jiangxi Province