Completed in 1957, the First Yangtze River Bridge was the first bridge to span the Yangtze River, connecting Hanyang and Wuchang districts across Snake Hill. The double-deck structure carries both rail traffic on its lower level and road and pedestrian traffic above, and remains a symbol of Wuhan's modern development. Visitors typically walk a section of the pedestrian deck for views over the river and the surrounding skyline, or view the bridge from riverside viewpoints and the Snake Hill area nearby. A visit -- walking part of the bridge and taking in the views -- runs about 45 minutes to an hour. The bridge is illuminated at night, and sunset through early evening is the most popular time to see its silhouette against the river and skyline, when lighting comes on but there is still enough daylight to see the water traffic below.
| Admission | Free |
|---|---|
| Hours | Open 24 hours (viewing platforms 8:00 AM–10:00 PM) |
| Typical visit | 45 minutes–1 hour |
| Best time | Sunset and just after dark for bridge lighting |
| Getting there | Metro Line 4 or 5 to Ziyang Road station, 10-minute walk |
| Address | Wuhan Yangtze River Bridge, near Snake Hill, Wuhan |
Weather through the year in China
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Average daytime temperature in °C. Figures are for China.
Location
Wuhan Yangtze River Bridge, near Snake Hill, Wuhan
30.5560, 114.2900 View on map
Highlights
- China's first bridge across the Yangtze River, completed in 1957
- Double-deck design carrying both rail and road traffic
- Pedestrian walkway with river and skyline views
- Illuminated at night, best seen from riverside viewpoints
Tips for visiting
- Walk out onto the pedestrian deck rather than only viewing from the riverbank for the best perspective
- Visit at sunset to see both daylight river views and the evening lighting
- Combine with a visit to nearby Snake Hill, a short walk away
- Traffic noise is constant on the upper road deck, so the lower riverside paths are quieter for photos
When to visit
Sunset and just after dark, when the bridge lighting comes on against the fading sky.
Accessibility
The pedestrian walkway is level but includes stairs at some access points; riverside viewpoints at ground level are step-free.
Frequently asked questions
How long does a visit to the bridge take?
About 45 minutes to an hour to walk a section and take in the views.
Is the bridge worth visiting for non-engineering enthusiasts?
Yes -- beyond its engineering history, it offers some of the best free river and skyline views in central Wuhan.
Is photography allowed on the bridge?
Yes, photography from the pedestrian walkway and nearby viewpoints is unrestricted.