Zhejiang Road Bridge

Completed in 1908, the Zhejiang Road Bridge isn’t just a bridge. It’s a survivor. This lenticular truss bridge, spanning the Suzhou Creek, has witnessed a lot of Shanghai’s history. Imagine the sights it has seen since its construction. The Zhejiang Road Bridge was strengthened in 1975, proving its resilience. It’s a single-span bridge, meaning there are no supporting piers in the water. The bridge is only 15 meters wide. It carries two narrow lanes for vehicles and surprisingly wide sidewalks for pedestrians. Now, film buffs might recognize the Zhejiang Road Bridge. It made an appearance in the movie “Empire of the Sun”. The film showcased the stark contrast between the privileged lives of colonial families and the hardships faced by the Chinese people before the Second Sino-Japanese War. The Zhejiang Road Bridge, along with the Zhapu Road Bridge, served as a backdrop to these scenes, silently witnessing the unfolding drama. The Suzhou Creek flowing beneath the Zhejiang Road Bridge has its own story. Once heavily polluted, it has undergone a remarkable transformation. The city of Shanghai recognized the creek’s importance and dedicated resources to clean it up. Today, the creek teems with life. Fish, turtles, and other riparian creatures thrive in its waters. It is no longer a black and smelly waterway, but a revitalized part of the city’s ecosystem. So, as you stand here on the Zhejiang Road Bridge, take a moment to appreciate its unique structure and the history it represents. It’s more than just a way to cross the creek. It’s a testament to engineering, a backdrop to history, and a symbol of Shanghai’s resilience.