Recently, a 3.47-kilometer-long dedicated bicycle lane was added along the northern bank of the Yong River in Nanning. This lane starts from under the Beida Bridge and ends at the Lingtie Bridge, and is now open to the public.
The dedicated bicycle lane has been completed
Netizen "Public Welfare Sign Language" posted that this 2-meter-wide, 3.47-kilometer-long bicycle lane, with white protective lines on both sides, starts from the fountain under the Beida Bridge and extends eastward, passing through Minsheng Square, the Yong River Bridge, the Taoyuan Bridge, and arriving at the Lingtie Bridge. The lane is paved with reddish granular rubber, with bicycle icons painted at intervals. "Public Welfare Sign Language" said that on September 22, "Car-Free Day," he specifically rode the lane and found it smooth and eco-friendly.
On September 23, a reporter cycled to the north section of the Yong River near the base of the Beida Bridge and from afar could see the striking reddish bicycle lane. The lane features white bicycle icons and bidirectional arrows. Riding along the track is very smooth, with plenty of space for two bikes to ride side by side and enough room when passing oncoming vehicles. Along the way, occasional river breezes provide a refreshing feeling.
The bicycle lane is beautifully designed, featuring curves and straight stretches, some sloped and others flat, creating a sense of “lost in a maze” at times, then suddenly opening up with views of the Yong River landscape again. To the left of the lane, a row of ancient grey-brick city walls makes you feel as if you’ve “traveled back in time.” Some cyclists couldn’t help but stop to admire the view, while others took out their phones to take photos.
Citizens praise the riverside cycling scenery
The bicycle lane also features introductions to Nanning’s Eight Scenic Spots, carved in various fonts.
On the day of the visit, the reporter saw only a few cyclists on the lane, totaling fewer than 40 people over two hours. The reporter also encountered five or six citizens walking along the lane with their children, who happily shouted while admiring the scenery around them.
Several cycling enthusiasts told the reporter that they come to cycle along the riverside together every day, and this lane has become their go-to route. "This road is perfect for cycling—few people, few cars, smooth and unobstructed," said Mr. Wang, a cycling enthusiast. He added that the scenery along this stretch adds a delightful surprise to the ride, making it truly an eco-friendly path.
More historical and cultural sights along the "greenway"
On September 24, the reporter learned from Nanning Jianing Water Investment Group Co., Ltd., the project owner of the Nanning Yong River Comprehensive Improvement and Development Demonstration Section, that the demonstration section is located on the northern bank of the Yong River, starting 100 meters upstream from the Beida Bridge and ending 100 meters downstream from the Lingtie Bridge.
This lane marked with bicycle icons has a special name—"Greenway"—and is mainly intended for citizens to ride bicycles on. The Greenway began construction in October 2012, was largely completed and opened at the end of August this year, and is currently undergoing some minor repairs. The "Greenway" is a demonstration road, and currently the only one in Nanning. There are no specific plans yet for whether more will be built.
It is reported that the main landscapes developed in the demonstration section include: ancient Yong stone carvings, sculpture fountains, winter swimming memorial squares, and corridors depicting Guangxi mythological legends. The main construction includes: ecological revetment projects, landscape engineering, architectural engineering, bridge engineering, structural engineering, water and electricity supporting projects, and greening projects. Mr. Yuan, a staff member of Jianing Company, explained that the landscapes along the "Greenway" mostly introduce Nanning’s historical and cultural heritage, which can enhance the city’s humanistic landscape and allow citizens cycling for exercise to enjoy both natural and cultural sights.