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Zhongshan Bridge中山桥
The 'First Bridge over the Yellow River' — a 1907 steel-truss bridge built with German engineering, it was the only permanent crossing of the Yellow River for decades. Today it is pedestrian-only, connecting Baita Mountain Park to Lanzhou's riverside promenade.
Lanzhou · Visitor Guide2026-10-19
Quick Answer
Is Zhongshan Bridge worth visiting?
Lanzhou's "First Bridge over the Yellow River": a 1907 German-built steel truss, pedestrian-only now, linking the riverside promenade to Baita Mountain Park — best at sunset.
Quick facts
| Ticket | Free |
|---|---|
| Hours | 24h (lit until ~23:00) |
| Recommended duration | 30-60 minutes |
| Best time to visit | Sunset into evening lights |
| How to get there | Walk from Lanzhou center; Metro Line 1 to Xiguan Shizi |
| English signage | basic |
| Wheelchair accessible | Yes |
What to expect
Commissioned in 1907 and assembled from German steel shipped upriver, the bridge served carts and camels until 2004, when it became a pedestrian monument. Crossing it is the classic Lanzhou experience — the yellow, silt-heavy river churning below, the White Pagoda on the hill across.
On the far bank, Baita Mountain Park climbs past pavilions to a white pagoda with city views; a zip line descends back to the riverbank. The riverside promenade on the near side has teahouses and evening crowds.
How to get there
The bridge is in central Lanzhou by the riverside promenade — Metro Line 1 to Xiguan Shizi, then 10 minutes on foot. Baita Mountain Park is directly across.
Best photo spots
- The steel truss lit at dusk
- Yellow River rapids below the bridge
- White Pagoda framed by the bridge from the south bank
Tips
- Cross at sunset, climb Baita Park, and walk back after the bridge lights switch on
- Pair with a Lanzhou beef-noodle breakfast in the streets south of the river
Frequently asked questions
Why is it called the First Bridge?
Built 1907-1909 with German steel and engineering, it was the first permanent crossing over the Yellow River anywhere along its course.
Is it worth visiting?
It is Lanzhou's signature landmark — free, central, and at its best at sunset — though most visitors see it en route to the Gansu museums or a Bingling Temple day trip.
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Other things to do in Lanzhou
Baita Park
The hillside park across the Yellow River from Zhongshan Bridge: pavilions and a Yuan-era white pagoda on a 200-meter climb (or cable car) — Lanzhou's best panorama at dusk.
Zhongshan Bridge
The Yellow River's first iron bridge (1907) — now a pedestrian promenade, famous red structure spanning China's second-longest river in central Lanzhou. Free. 30 minutes.