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Luding Bridge

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

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Luding Bridge, spanning the Dadu River in Sichuan Province, is an iconic structure known for its traditional engineering and its pivotal role in modern Chinese history. Completed in 1705 during the reign of the Kangxi Emperor, this suspension bridge is constructed from 13 massive iron chains supporting wooden planks. Measuring 103 meters in length, it served for centuries as a vital link on the trade route between Sichuan and Tibet. The bridge achieved worldwide fame due to a heroic event during the Long March in May 1935. Red Army soldiers crossed the bridge under intense enemy fire, even though many of the wooden planks had been removed to halt their progress. This successful crossing allowed the communist forces to escape encirclement by Kuomintang troops and became a cornerstone of the founding myth of the People's Republic of China. Today, the bridge is preserved as a national historic site and a memorial to the revolution, attracting visitors who come to witness the site of this strategic turning point amidst the dramatic mountain scenery.

Location: China
Top sights: Mount Erlang · Xingkang Bridge · Erlang Temple

📋 Practical info

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Visiting

Visitors have the thrilling opportunity to walk across this historic chain suspension bridge, suspended dramatically over the rushing river. The swaying wooden planks provide a vivid, tactile sense of the structure's legendary and perilous past.

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Typical hours

Access to walk across the bridge is typically permitted during standard daylight hours throughout the week. Early mornings are generally the best time to visit if you wish to avoid large domestic tour groups and experience a quieter atmosphere.

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Photography

Capturing the immense iron chains against the backdrop of the steep gorge and the turbulent waters below makes for striking photography. Ensure your camera is securely strapped to your wrist or neck while navigating the unsteady bridge surface.

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Time needed

Crossing the river and briefly exploring the small memorial areas on either side generally takes about thirty to forty-five minutes. Take extra time to read the informative plaques detailing the extraordinary historical significance of the site.

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Combine with

You can seamlessly combine a visit to the bridge with a broader exploration of the surrounding mountainous Garze Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture. The area is renowned for its panoramic alpine scenery and unique cultural heritage sites.

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Getting there

The historic site is situated directly within Luding County, making it easily accessible by regional buses or private cars traveling along the scenic Sichuan-Tibet Highway. Parking is usually available a short walking distance from the bridge entrance.

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Insider tip

If you suffer from vertigo or an extreme fear of heights, be mentally prepared before stepping onto the swaying wooden boards. The gaps between the planks reveal the rushing river far below, which can be quite intimidating for some visitors.

Geography

Coordinates

29.91440, 102.22810

Facts

The bridge was completed in 1705 under the Qing Dynasty.
It is constructed using 13 iron chains weighing over 40 tons in total.
The bridge measures 103 meters long and 3 meters wide.
The famous battle at the bridge occurred on May 29, 1935.
It consists of exactly 12,164 handcrafted iron links.
The site has been a protected national monument since 1961.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Wolong National Nature Reserve109 km · NExplore →

Emeishan123 km · NExplore →

Kunming129 km · NEExplore →

Dounan Flower Market135 km · NEExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

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Overnight stops

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Only stops with (optional): 💧 Water ♻️ Disposal 🔌 Power 🚻 Toilets 🚿 Shower

Sights in the town Luding Bridge (3)

Mount Erlang🌿 nature

Mount Erlang is a famous pass in Sichuan, known for its long road tunnel and mist-covered slopes.

Xingkang Bridge📍 landmark

Xingkang Bridge is a massive suspension bridge over the Dadu River, part of the high-altitude highway to Tibet.

Erlang Temple⛪ religious

This traditional temple is dedicated to the deity Erlang Shen and is located near the historic river crossing in Luding.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

What is the Luding Bridge made of?

It is an iron chain bridge stretched across the Dadu River.

Why is the bridge historically important?

It was the scene of a heroic crossing during the Long March.

Can you walk across the bridge today?

Yes, visitors can walk across the bridge for a small fee.

Where is the bridge located?

In Luding County, Sichuan Province.

Is crossing it scary?

It can be wobbly, but it is securely fastened and prepared for tourists.

Luding Bridge: where is it located?

Luding Bridge is located in China.

Luding Bridge: what is there to see?

Highlights include Mount Erlang, Xingkang Bridge, Erlang Temple.

Luding Bridge: why is it worth visiting?

Luding Bridge, spanning the Dadu River in Sichuan Province, is an iconic structure known for its traditional engineering and its pivotal role in modern Chinese history.

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