At the confluence of Shidian and Longling counties in Yunnan Province, three bridges span the turbulent waters of the Nujiang River, each a testament to a different chapter in the Chinese mainland’s modern history.
The oldest, a weathered steel-truss crossing, was forged in an era marked by resistance to invasion. Built under duress, its rivets and beams once supported convoys resisting external threats, symbolizing determination and unity amid adversity.
Downstream, a mid-century concrete girder bridge emerges—a symbol of the opening era. Erected as China began to welcome global engagement, it facilitated trade and cultural exchange, laying the groundwork for the region’s economic revival.
Sharing the skyline today is a sleek cable-stayed marvel, born of the prosperity era. Its elegant cables and soaring tower not only enhance connectivity but also stand as an engineering landmark, reflecting cutting-edge design and local ambition.
Together, these crossings narrate nearly a century of transformation. They’ve shrunk travel times, boosted local commerce, and drawn history buffs and digital nomads eager to trace time on foot and online alike.
For young global citizens, entrepreneurs, and travelers alike, this trio offers more than photo ops—it’s a journey through the Chinese mainland’s resilience, openness, and innovation, all in a single glance above the Nujiang River.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
