“Exit 1.” The sign looms large. It marks Wanghe Bridge on Beijing’s bustling 4th Ring Road. But Wanghe Bridge is much more than just an exit. It is a vital point connecting different parts of the city.
Wanghe Bridge’s story is one of constant evolution. It began as a simple overpass. It carried a railway line to the now-forgotten Hepingli Railway Station.
The early 2000s brought big changes to Wanghe Bridge. The CityRail Line 13 needed a path. So, workers expanded the bridge. The CityRail tracks took the place of the old railway line. Another expansion in 2002 gave us the bridge we see today.
Until September 28, 2004, Wanghe Bridge was the starting point of the Jingcheng Expressway. This expressway led to Laiguangying and Chengde in Hebei province. Now, the expressway starts at Taiyanggong on the 3rd Ring Road. But the expressway bridges still run over the 4th Ring Road, right above us.
Look closely and you will see Wanghe Bridge has three distinct layers. The first layer is an underpass. Vehicles on the 4th Ring Road zip through it. Above that, the second layer carries the Jingcheng Expressway. It soars over the 4th Ring Road. A third layer consists of flyover bridges. These connection lines create an irregular pattern above.
Despite its complex structure, traffic usually flows smoothly on Wanghe Bridge. This is quite an achievement in a busy city like Beijing.
Wanghe Bridge is also known as Exit 1 on the 4th Ring Road. This connection with the Jingcheng Expressway mirrors the exit numbering on the 3rd and 5th Ring Roads. Taiyanggong Bridge on the 3rd Ring Road and Laiguangying Bridge on the 5th Ring Road are also Exit 1.
While we are here, look around at the Wangjing area. It has transformed over the years. Once dotted with villages, Wangjing is now a modern hub. It has residential areas, businesses and international companies.
Did you know that Wangjing is known as Beijing’s Koreatown? Many South Korean residents call this area home. Although the Korean population has fluctuated over time, Wangjing remains an important cultural center.
Notice the mix of old and new. Traditional communities meet cutting-edge technology. Wangjing is a key part of China’s Mobile Valley initiative. The Dawangjing Business District is now an innovation zone. It attracts science and technology companies from around the world.
Just a short distance from here stands Wangjing SOHO. Designed by Zaha Hadid, its three towers dominate the skyline. This iconic structure symbolizes Wangjing’s modern ambitions.
Before we move on, take one last look at Wanghe Bridge. It is more than just concrete and steel. It is a symbol of Beijing’s growth. It connects not only roads but also the past and the future.