Spanning the Dianpu River in the historic heart of Zhujiajiao, Fangsheng Bridge - meaning "Bridge of Life Liberation" - is far more than just a crossing. This 700-year-old structure symbolizes both Buddhist compassion and Ming Dynasty engineering brilliance. Built in 1571 during Emperor Longqing`s reign, this five-arched stone bridge remains the largest and oldest among Shanghai`s water towns, measuring 72 meters long and 5.8 meters wide.
Architectural Marvel: A Ming Dynasty Masterpiece
Fangsheng Bridge exemplifies late Ming stone bridge design, blending elegance with engineering:
• Five graceful arches: The semicircular spans (central arch 12m wide) allowed merchant junks to pass freely at high tide
• Carved dragon heads: Eight stone dragon heads on the parapets served as flood protection
• Guardian lions: Four ancient lion statues (originally eight) stand sentinel at both ends
• Unique acoustics: The 78 stone steps produce faint echoes when walked upon - locals call this "the bridge`s whisper"
The name "Life Liberation" comes from an ancient Buddhist practice where merchants would buy fish from markets and release them here to gain merit. A 1571 stone inscription on the north side still commemorates this ritual.
Living History Around Fangsheng Bridge
The bridge forms the heart of Zhujiajiao`s oldest commercial district:
Northern Side: Ming Dynasty Fish Market
For centuries, this was where carp and eels were sold for liberation rituals. Today it`s a vibrant food area featuring:
• Zongzi (pyramid-shaped rice dumplings in bamboo leaves)
• "Dianpu" drunken crabs (marinated in Shaoxing wine)
Historic buildings include:
• Qing-era Rice Guild Hall (now a teahouse with river views)
• 1573 Pawnshop (one of China`s oldest, with original vaults)
Southern Side: Temple Street and Crafts
• Yuanjin Monastery (300m east) - the bridge`s spiritual counterpart
• Bamboo Weavers` Alley: Workshops still making river baskets using Ming techniques
• Hidden gem: A Taoist shrine beneath the southeast arch where fishermen prayed for safe voyages
Dianpu River Waterfront
• Boat dock: Traditional wupeng boats (black-canopied gondolas) still depart for canal tours
• Best photo spot: Capture perfect sunrise shots from the west side with the bridge reflected in misty waters
Fangsheng Bridge Through the Centuries
• 1571: Built by monk Xingchao to replace a flood-destroyed wooden bridge
• 1709 (Qing Dynasty): Reinforced with iron cramps still visible between stones
• 1937: Survived Japanese bombing during the Battle of Shanghai (shrapnel marks remain on north arch)
• 2001: Designated a National Cultural Heritage Site after 3-year restoration
Why Fangsheng Bridge Still Matters
Unlike replica bridges in towns like Wuzhen, Fangsheng is authentic, showcasing:
• Ming-era hydrology (arches regulate floodwaters)
• Living Buddhist traditions (liberation rituals continue on Buddha`s birthday)
• Community spirit (elders recall childhood games on its steps)
Visit at 6-7 AM to experience the bridge crowd-free as mist rises from the Dianpu and boats set out. At dusk, red lanterns illuminate the parapets. Remarkably, the central arch perfectly frames the moon during Mid-Autumn Festival - a deliberate design by Ming architects.
