Located in Linxi Township of the Sanjiang Dong Autonomous County, the bridge is listed as one of the three famous bridges from ancient China. Built in 1916, this semi-permanent bridge is 64.4 meters long and has stone piers and wooden girders and pavilions connected by a tile-roofed corridor. Viewed from a distance, this majestic bridge compares favorably with the Floral Bridge in Guilin.
Chengyang is a district consisting of eight famous stockade villages that offering a peek into the Dong's life and customs, located 4-5 hours to the famous tourist city, Guilin.
Chengyang Wind and Rain Bridge, also called Yongji Bridge or Panlong Bridge, spans the Linxi River of Sanjiang County. On the bridge itself, there are five tower-like kiosks with 'horns' and eaves which resemble the flapping wings of birds.
It is known for its "Folk Custom Centre" and Wind and Rain Bridge which are protected as the valued relics. Every day at 10:30am and 3:30pm there is a Dong Culture Show.
To one's surprise, the builders of this bridge did not use any nails or rivets. Instead, talented Dong people dove-tailed many pieces of wood. Though several decades old, the bridge is still very sturdy. In a word, it is grand and looks like a brilliant rainbow crossing over the river.
Walking out onto the bridge, you can sit on the bench and appreciate the picturesque scenery. Looking far ahead, you will be intoxicated with what you see: the Linxi River meandering from the horizon; tea trees growing on the hills; local peasants working hard in the fields; and waterwheels turning, sending water cascading down the river.
Many visitors like to spend time here enjoying the perfect pastoral life and to experience the customs of the Dong people. There are eight famous stockade villages here that offer a peek into the Dong's life and customs. They are Ma'an, Pingzhai, Yanzhai, Chengyang-Dazhai, Pingpu, Pingtan, Jichang and Guandong.
Accommodation: Near the bridge, there are several hostels. If you want to have a spectacular view of the charming scenery, you may want to stay in the Drum Tower Folk Hostel built on the hill.
Food: You will have a chance to taste the local snacks, such as rice noodles and the fish with sour taste.
Getting there: Take the 'Sanjiang to Chengyang' bus and get off at the Chengyang.
Travel Tips: In front of the Drum Tower of Ma'an, you can watch performances by the Dong people. If you want to take photos there, you should pay for them. In Pingpu, there are two new Drum Towers. If you enter them, please take along money, for there is a small entry fee.
Fee: CNY 30
CNY 80 (for watching the performance of the local Dong ethnic minority)