Waibaidu Bridge — Attraction in Shanghai

Built in 1907, Waibaidu Bridge also known as the Garden Bridge is one of the most iconic landmarks in Shanghai. It holds the distinction of being the first all-steel bridge in the city, a remarkable feat of engineering for its time. The bridge was designed by the British firm Wilkinson, Hodge & Co., and its construction marked a significant milestone in Shanghai's urban development. Notably, the Waibaidu bridge has been featured in novels and movies include Steve Spielberg’s film Empire of the Sun.

The name "Waibaidu" translates to "outer ferry" in Chinese, referencing its location at the confluence of Suzhou Creek and the Huangpu River. Originally, the bridge served as a link between the British settlement known as the Bund and the American settlement in the city, allowing pedestrians and vehicles to cross from one side to the other.

During its early years, Waibaidu Bridge became a symbol of Shanghai's increasing international influence and trade. The bridge's iron lattice structure, a common design element of the time, added to its allure and aesthetic appeal. Over the decades, the bridge witnessed numerous changes in the city's landscape, from colonial influences to periods of rapid modernization.

Waibaidu Bridge survived several historical events, including World War II and the Japanese occupation of Shanghai. Despite the challenges, the bridge endured and continued to serve as a vital transportation artery and a beloved gathering spot for locals and visitors alike.

In recent years, Waibaidu Bridge has undergone restoration and preservation efforts to maintain its historical significance and architectural beauty. In February 2008, due to the construction of a nearby tunnel, it was decided to strengthen its aging structures. The Waibaidu bridge was cut in two sections each moved by boat into a shipyard in Pudong. 40% of its steel was replaced and a led lighting system was installed. The bridge was reopened in 2009 after 10-month of repair and restauration.

Today, the bridge stands as a cherished landmark, offering stunning views of Shanghai's modern skyline while evoking a sense of nostalgia for the city's...

About 150 years ago, with no bridge over Suzhou Creek, the only way to get across was by ferry. Because of the settlement of foreign concessions on two sides, the ferry couldn't cope with the increasing passenger volume. So, a British businessman named Wills directed the building of a large wooden bridge, Wills Bridge, beyond the river in 1856. Folks called it Waibaidu because it was located at the Outside Ferry (Waibaidu). Chinese had to pay to cross the bridge, and this triggered off a storm of protest. In order to calm the masses, a wooden bridge, named Garden Bridge, was built to the west of it, free to the public. Later, the old bridge was demolished. In 1908, a steel bridge was constructed to replace the wooden bridge so as to allow streetcars over the river.

The most attractive places at the south end of the bridge are Huangpu Park and Rockbund. Huangpu Park is one of the most beautiful spots on the Bund, completed in 1868. The Cenotaph to the People's Hero, History Museum of the Bund and the large-scale relief all can be seen in the park. The wide trees and flowers in the park immerse you in the cozy garden landscapes. To the west of the park, groups of old western buildings, which were built at the beginning of the 20th century, are gathered in a region called Rockbund, which is the origin of the Bund, containing the earliest western buildings.

Shanghai Mansion, also named Broadway Mansion, is a five-star foreign hotel, standing straight at the north end of the bridge. It was built in 1930 and took four years to complete. Walking to the east, you will see the elegant Consulate of Russian Federation, which started construction in 1914 and finished in 1916. During that time, the relation between the two countries was changing constantly, so the consulate had been closed and reopened for six times, which was regarded as one of the strangest events in the...

Waibaidu Bridge, also known as the Garden Bridge, is an iconic symbol of Shanghai's architectural heritage and urban evolution. Spanning the Suzhou Creek, it connects the bustling Bund area with the Hongkou district. As the first all-steel bridge in China, Waibaidu Bridge has a rich history dating back to 1908, making it not only a functional structure but a living monument to the city's past.

The bridge’s design is a beautiful example of early 20th-century engineering, with its intricate steel framework and long span, offering an industrial elegance. Walking across the bridge, you can't help but appreciate its robust yet intricate construction, which has withstood over a century of urban transformation.

One of the best features of Waibaidu Bridge is the panoramic view it offers. As you cross, you’re treated to stunning views of the Huangpu River and the majestic skyline of Pudong, with the futuristic Oriental Pearl Tower and other skyscrapers forming a stark contrast to the historical feel of the bridge itself. Whether day or night, the views are breathtaking and offer a unique glimpse into Shanghai’s mix of...