Here stands the Seventeen-Arch Bridge a stunning testament to imperial grandeur. It connects the mainland to Nanhu Island. This bridge is no ordinary structure. It is an imitation of the Marco Polo Bridge. The AnYun Bridge offers scenic spots.
Emperor Qianlong commissioned it during the Qing Dynasty. That dynasty lasted from 1644 to 1911. Look closely. Notice how it resembles a rainbow. Or perhaps an ornamental ribbon.
As its name suggests the Seventeen-Arch Bridge boasts seventeen symmetrical arches. The largest arch sits in the center. The others gradually decrease in size. Watch the water. The arch and its reflection create an awesome sight.
The Seventeen-Arch Bridge stretches 150 meters long. It rises 7 meters high. This corresponds with the garden’s imperial scale. Admire the details. The bridge features 544 carved lions. Each lion perches on white marble balusters. Each has different expressions. Each has different postures.
Now let’s turn our attention to Nanhu Island. It covers over one hectare. This makes it the largest of three islands. These islands are in Kunming Lake. The Seventeen-Arch Bridge links the island to the east bank. From a distance the island and bridge look like a tortoise. It seems to stretch its neck. In Chinese culture the tortoise symbolizes longevity. Emperor Qianlong embraced this symbol. He built this garden. It was to celebrate his mother’s sixtieth birthday.
Nanhu Island features key structures. The Hanxu Hall is one. So is the Dragon King Temple. Empress Dowager Cixi used Hanxu Hall. She watched navy drills from its pavilion. Legend says the Dragon King Temple dates back to the Ming Dynasty. That dynasty ruled from 1368 to 1644. When workers excavated Kunming Lake they deliberately kept the land around the temple. This created the isolated island.
In ancient times people saw the Dragon King as a master of rain. Whenever Cixi visited the Summer Palace by water she stopped at the temple. She always worshiped there.
The Seventeen-Arch Bridge is more than just a crossing. It is a symbol of Chinese culture. It is an artistic marvel. Its lions stand guard. They have stood guard for centuries. They silently watch over the Summer Palace. They connect us to China’s rich past. They connect us to the emperors and empresses. They connect us to their celebrations and beliefs.