“Long-lasting prosperity.” That’s what the name Yongxing Bridge means. This bridge stands as Shenzhen’s only ancient three-hole stone arch bridge. Yongxing Bridge is over 300 years old. It is located in Bao’an District’s Xinqiao Community in Qingping Ancient Market.
Emperor Kangxi reigned from 1662 to 1722. During this time, Zeng Qichuan built the bridge. He was a student in Xin’an County. Zeng named it Yongxing. This means long-lasting prosperity. The bridge later decayed. In 1785, Zeng Daxiong and others renovated it. They raised funds from local residents.
Yongxing Bridge is a stone arch bridge. It has three holes. The bridge stretches 50 meters long. It is 3.4 meters wide. Granite forms the bridge. Small stone lions adorn the columns. Carvings decorate the bridge’s surface. These include dragons playing with pearls. Also, there are phoenixes facing the sun. The structure is tight. Its form is beautiful.
In the Qing Dynasty, Yongxing Bridge played a key role. It aided transportation and economic development. Qingping Market and Xinqiao Granary stood near it. These were important sites. You can still see these buildings from the bridge today.
Historical records mention Yongxing Bridge. They state it connected different areas. The bridge linked Huangsonggang and Wushiyan roads. It also connected Yunlin and Maozhou. Xinqiao River and Maozhou River meet under the bridge. They flow into the Pearl River. This location made the bridge significant.
Qingping Ancient Market was established near Yongxing Bridge. This happened during the Qing Jiaqing period. People also called it Qingping Street. A tall gun tower rose east of Yongxing Bridge in the late Qing Dynasty. It was Guang’an Pawnshop. Later, it became Xinqiao Granary.
In 1984, Yongxing Bridge became a protected cultural relic. It underwent further renovation. The Bao’an District government renovated Qingping Ancient Market. They also renovated the man-made lake. This attracted more tourists to Yongxing Bridge.
Have you ever wondered about the history beneath your feet? Yongxing Bridge offers a glimpse into Shenzhen’s past. It represents lasting prosperity and community effort. Take a moment to appreciate this ancient landmark. Notice the intricate carvings and solid structure. Think about the people who crossed this bridge centuries ago. They helped shape Shenzhen’s story.