Broken Bridge
A historic stone bridge on Hangzhou's West Lake, famed for its legend and picturesque views, especially at sunset.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Broken Bridge
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic stone bridge on Hangzhou's West Lake, famed for its legend and picturesque views, especially at sunset.
"Gorgeous lake with beautiful statues and a nice historical touch, definitely a place to hit."
🚶♀️ Walk the Bridge
Explore the partially reconstructed bridge for unique photo ops and historical context.
🌅 Catch the Sunset
The views during sunset are spectacular and highly recommended by visitors.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Iconic Broken Bridge
Hangzhou, China
A historic stone bridge, partially reconstructed, offering picturesque views and a sense of enduring history.

West Lake Serenity
Hangzhou, China
This UNESCO World Heritage site offers stunning natural beauty, classical gardens, and tranquil boat rides.

Sunset Views
West Lake
Experience breathtaking sunsets over the lake, painting the sky with vibrant colors. A truly romantic setting.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Navigating the Area
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Walk the Bridge
Explore the partially reconstructed bridge for unique photo ops and historical context.
🌅 Catch the Sunset
The views during sunset are spectacular and highly recommended by visitors.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking around the lake and historical sites.
📸 Capture the Scenery
Plenty of beautiful spots for photos, especially around the lake and statues.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Walk the Bridge
Explore the partially reconstructed bridge for unique photo ops and historical context.
🌅 Catch the Sunset
The views during sunset are spectacular and highly recommended by visitors.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking around the lake and historical sites.
📸 Capture the Scenery
Plenty of beautiful spots for photos, especially around the lake and statues.
💧 Bridge Maintenance
Be aware of potential maintenance or weather-related issues affecting bridges.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Broken Bridge and West Lake for their stunning natural beauty, historical significance, and romantic ambiance, especially during sunset. While the area is undeniably gorgeous and offers many photo opportunities, it can become quite crowded, detracting from the tranquility for some. The blend of scenic landscapes, cultural legends, and accessible attractions makes it a must-visit for many.
"The Lake was amazing. Very crowded even on a low season. There are many wonderful scenery you can 打卡。断桥 is just one of the many places you can visit. Mostly within walking distance. Spend one day and you can complete most of the famous places you can see in the goggle map."
Henry
"Great view ..must go during sunset"
Teoh Kah Lean
"Gorgeous lake with some beautiful statues and explanations of what they represent (in English and Chinese). A nice historical touch along with some very cool looking boats. Definitely a place to hit if you are in Shanghai for an extended period of time and want to get out of the city atmosphere."
Matt
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Broken Bridge is located on the West Lake in Hangzhou, China. You can reach it by taking public transport like buses or metro to West Lake. Many visitors find it convenient to walk around the lake, as the bridge is a central point. Taxis and ride-sharing services are also readily available.
Yes, West Lake is well-served by public transportation. Buses and a metro line provide access to various points around the lake. You can also rent bicycles or take a leisurely boat ride to explore.
Many visitors prefer to walk or cycle around West Lake to fully enjoy the scenery. Boat tours are also a popular and scenic way to get around.
Several bus routes stop near West Lake, with many offering convenient access to the Broken Bridge area. It's advisable to check a local transit app or map for the most up-to-date route information.
While you can drive to the vicinity of West Lake, parking can be challenging and expensive. Public transport or cycling is generally recommended for easier access to the bridge and surrounding areas.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The Broken Bridge itself is a public landmark and does not require an entrance fee. However, access to West Lake and its surrounding attractions may have associated costs, such as boat rides or garden entry fees.
West Lake is generally accessible at all times, making it a great spot for early morning or late evening visits. Specific attractions within the park may have their own operating hours.
The main areas of West Lake are free to enter. Some specific gardens, museums, or attractions within the West Lake scenic area might charge an admission fee.
While not always necessary, booking boat tours in advance, especially during peak season, can save you time. Tickets are often available for purchase at the piers.
West Lake hosts various cultural events and festivals throughout the year, particularly during traditional Chinese holidays. Checking local event listings before your visit is recommended.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The Broken Bridge is a historic landmark in Hangzhou, known for its unique partial reconstruction. It's a popular spot for photography and offers beautiful views of West Lake.
The bridge itself offers great angles, especially with the lake as a backdrop. The surrounding parkland and pagodas also provide excellent photographic opportunities.
Yes, guided tours are available for West Lake, offering insights into its history, culture, and legends. You can often find these through local tour operators or at visitor centers.
The Broken Bridge is situated on West Lake, which is surrounded by numerous attractions including gardens, temples, pagodas, and museums. Many are within walking distance.
West Lake can get very crowded, especially during peak tourist seasons and holidays. Visiting on weekdays or during off-peak hours can provide a more serene experience.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are numerous restaurants and food stalls around West Lake, offering a variety of local Hangzhou cuisine and other options. You can find everything from casual eateries to more formal dining experiences.
Don't miss trying Hangzhou's specialties like West Lake Fish in Sweet and Sour Sauce, Dongpo Pork, and Longjing Shrimp.
Most restaurants in Hangzhou offer vegetarian dishes. Look for vegetable stir-fries, tofu dishes, and local vegetable specialties.
Yes, you'll find various street food vendors and snack stalls around West Lake, offering local treats and quick bites.
Several restaurants and cafes around West Lake offer beautiful views of the water, especially during sunset or at night.
📸 📸 Photography
Sunset is highly recommended for its beautiful light and romantic atmosphere. Early mornings can also offer a peaceful setting with fewer crowds.
A versatile lens, like a 24-70mm equivalent, is useful for capturing both wide landscapes and details. A wide-angle lens is great for the expansive lake views.
Drone usage is typically restricted in scenic areas like West Lake to preserve the tranquility and for safety reasons. It's best to check local regulations before flying.
The bridge itself, the reflections in the water, the surrounding willow trees, and distant pagodas are all popular subjects.
Visit during weekdays, early mornings, or late evenings. Consider focusing on details or using a wider aperture to blur out background distractions.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the historical significance might be lost on very young children, the natural beauty and the novelty of a boat ride can keep them engaged. The area is generally safe and well-maintained, making it a good choice for a family day out. Visiting during less crowded times will enhance the experience for everyone.
❤️ Couples and Romantic Getaways
Many visitors describe the atmosphere as peaceful and beautiful, making it an ideal spot for couples seeking a tranquil escape. Enjoying local cuisine at a lakeside restaurant or simply finding a quiet spot to watch the stars can further enhance a romantic visit.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers and Explorers
Engaging with local culture through food and observing daily life around the lake can be a rewarding solo experience. The area is generally safe, allowing for comfortable exploration at any time of day, though evenings offer a particularly serene atmosphere.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History and Legend of the Broken Bridge
While the bridge has been repaired and reinforced over time, its name persists, serving as a reminder of its historical significance and the enduring legend. The current structure offers a blend of historical charm and modern functionality, allowing visitors to walk across and imagine the stories that unfolded there centuries ago. The surrounding West Lake area is a UNESCO World Heritage site, celebrated for its cultural landscape and natural beauty, with the Broken Bridge being a key element within it.
Experiencing West Lake: Beyond the Bridge
For those who enjoy walking, the paths around the lake are well-maintained and offer stunning vistas. Cycling is another excellent way to cover more ground and enjoy the scenery at your own pace. Many visitors also appreciate the statues and explanations scattered throughout the park, which provide historical and cultural context. Whether you're seeking tranquility, historical insights, or simply beautiful scenery, West Lake offers a rich and rewarding experience for every visitor.
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