Chengyang District consists of eight villages and is situated 4 to 5 hours drive from Guilin . It is known for its “Folk Custom Centre” and Chengyang “wind and Rain “Bridge which is protected as a valued relic. The best way to appreciate the culture and sight is to take a leisurely walk through the Chengyang villages. You will see wooden houses, drum towers, bridges, waterwheels and rice paddies as part of every day life. You will never forget being able to join a family to share oiled tea or rice wine (if your game).
These structures are called wind-rain bridges because, besides providing a method to cross the rivers, they also give protection from the elements.
Built in 1916 with a stone and wood framework, the bridge is 64.4 meters long, 3.4 meters wide and 10.6m high. The body of the bridge is divided to three tiers, with five piers and 4 bridge openings, each of which spans 14.4 meters. The bridge has five pavilions built at regular intervals with flying eaves and a unique style. The pilasters and eaves of the bridge are engraved with flowers and patterns and are quite magnificent. This is considered to be the finest example of this kind of architecture and construction of it kind.
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The bridge is totally constructed from timber with wood and contains no steel nail or rivets. The construction of this bridge emphasizes the high architectural and construction abilities of the Dong people.
The bridge is serves as a gathering point for the temple fairs as well as a means of crossing the river.
Maan Drum-Toweris a unique complex fulfilling duel purposes. It acts as a bridge to service the needs of the local villages and as a pavilion. This is unique example of ethnic architecture of the Dong nationality, and one of the key cultural relics being preserved by Guangxi authorities |
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Guilin+Yangshuo+Longsheng+Sanjiang 5 days Tour
