“Yokohama” rings a bell does it not? Shanghai has its own “Yokohama” of sorts. I am talking about the “Sea River” or \u6a2a\u6d5c in Shanghai. More precisely, the \u6a2a\u6d5c Bridge.
This bridge is not just concrete and steel. It is a landmark. It is steeped in history. It whispers tales of old Shanghai. This is the \u6a2a\u6d5c Bridge.
The \u6a2a\u6d5c Bridge crosses the Zaoyujing River. The Zaoyujing River flows through Hongkou. The bridge is near \u6a2a\u6d5c Road. \u6a2a\u6d5c means “Sea River”.
Originally it was a wooden bridge. It connected the north and south banks of the Zaoyujing River. This river once marked the boundary. It separated the Hongkou and Zhabei districts.
The name \u6a2a\u6d5c comes from the nearby \u6a2a\u6d5c Road. The road runs along a section of the Zaoyujing River. Because of the river’s curves it got the name \u6a2a\u6d5c. The road was built in 1915. Later in 1931, they built East \u6a2a\u6d5c Road.
\u6a2a\u6d5c Bridge saw fierce fighting. It happened during the January 28 Incident in 1932. Chinese and Japanese forces clashed nearby. The bridge became a strategic point. People put up anti-Japanese signs on the bridge. Japanese residents tore them down. Conflicts broke out. Indian policemen intervened.
In those days, the bridge was more than just a crossing. It was a stage for cultural clashes. It was a symbol of resistance. It connected neighborhoods. It divided opinions.
Around the \u6a2a\u6d5c Bridge you will find a vibrant life. The Yong’an Cinema stood near the bridge. It was built in 1924. It was once the Shanghai Song and Dance Theatre.
There was also the Guangdong Grand Theatre built in 1928. Later it became the Hongkou People’s Theatre. Further down was the Red Star Book Market.
Old Shanghai residents recall the book market fondly. They remember the red sign at the entrance. The sign listed the day’s performances. It also listed the performers’ names.
The \u6a2a\u6d5c Bridge has a literary connection too. Celebrated writer Mao Dun often strolled here. He walked with his wife Kong Dezhi. They lived nearby.
The \u6a2a\u6d5c Bridge is a witness to Shanghai’s past. It is a testament to its resilience. It is a bridge between cultures and eras.
Today the \u6a2a\u6d5c Bridge may seem like any other bridge. However, it holds stories within its structure. Next time you cross it remember its history. Think of the people who walked here before us. Remember the events that shaped this city. The \u6a2a\u6d5c Bridge is more than just a crossing point. It is a journey through time.