“Eight Li Bridge.” That’s what Baliqiao was once known as. Standing here before the Baliqiao, or \u4e8c\u62e8\u5b50\u6865, we’re at a point of great historical significance. This bridge marks a place where time seems to converge.
Baliqiao stands at the meeting point of Tongzhou and Chaoyang districts. It gracefully arches over the Tonghui River. For centuries, this bridge has been more than just a crossing.
Do you know why it was called “Eight Li Bridge”? Because it was eight li from Tongzhou District in Beijing. A “li” is a Chinese mile. So, it marked the outer edge of Beijing’s Imperial City. Beyond here lay the Zhili province.
Imagine emperors of old. They would journey out from the Imperial City. Near Baliqiao, a palace and temple stood. The Emperor would rest here before changing clothes. Imperial robes were swapped for simpler travel attire. Upon return, the ritual reversed before he re-entered the city.
This canal beneath Baliqiao connects to the Summer Palace. The Qianlong Emperor, of the Qing Dynasty, began his six tours to the Jiangnan region right here. These boat tours were grand affairs.
But Baliqiao has seen darker days too. In 1860, during the Second Opium War, a fierce battle raged here. A combined Anglo-French force clashed with a Chinese army. The Chinese army numbered around 30,000 strong. The battle resulted in massive losses for the Chinese. It led to the invasion of Beijing.
Historians estimate about 1,200 Chinese soldiers died. The French and British lost only five. The French troops were led by Charles Guillaume Cousin-Montauban. Napoleon III awarded him the title Count of Palikao for his victory.
It was at Baliqiao that Chinese imperial commissioners agreed to demands. The British and French demanded reparations and the acceptance of foreign diplomats. This marked a significant turning point in China’s relationship with the West.
Today, Baliqiao is still a vital spot. A subway station served by the Line Batong of the Beijing Subway is located here. The Jingtong Expressway rushes nearby.
Look closer and you’ll spot a Qing Dynasty pavilion. It protects stelae bearing the Qianlong Emperor’s calligraphy. This helps preserve history.
Sadly, the temple and palace complex are gone now. Yet, archaeologists are seeking permission to explore the undisturbed site. They hope to unearth more about Baliqiao’s past.
Sadly, Baliqiao shows signs of neglect. Graffiti mars the marble. Some lion sculptures show damage. But there’s hope. Plans exist to build a new bridge. This would divert traffic. Restoration work can then occur. Access would be limited to pedestrians. A museum is planned.
Baliqiao, the Eight Li Bridge, stands as a reminder of China’s past. It represents imperial splendor, military conflict and the relentless march of time. It connects us to stories of emperors, soldiers, and a changing nation.