The Three Bridges of Tongli Ancient Town: A Must-See

The Three Bridges of Tongli Ancient Town in Suzhou, namely Taiping Bridge, Jili Bridge, and Changqing Bridge, are the core landmarks and cultural symbols of the ancient town. The three bridges are arranged in a "T" shape, spanning the intersection of three rivers, less than 50 meters apart, forming a unique water town landscape. Taiping Bridge is a beam-style stone bridge, Changqing Bridge is an arched stone bridge, and Jili Bridge is a half-moon shaped arch bridge in the center. All three bridges are decorated with granite couplets, such as the one on the north side of Jili Bridge: "Jili Bridge spans in a half-moon shape, Taiping Bridge stands reflecting a double rainbow," fully displaying the charm of a Jiangnan water town. The custom of walking the Three Bridges is an important folk custom in Tongli, originating in the Ming Dynasty and recorded in Qing Dynasty literature. It was included in the Wujiang Intangible Cultural Heritage List in 2011. Traditionally, on auspicious days such as weddings, birthdays, and baby's full moon celebrations, people walk around the bridges in the order of Jili Bridge, Taiping Bridge, and Changqing Bridge, symbolizing "peace, good luck, and long-lasting celebration." In wedding customs, the groom carries the bride across Jili Bridge, holds her across Taiping Bridge, and walks hand-in-hand across Changqing Bridge, symbolizing a happy marriage. It is also said that when people reach the age of sixty-six, walking across these three bridges can help them avoid misfortune and smoothly step into a new year of prosperity. During daily visits, tourists often follow local customs and pray for peace and health. The Three Bridges are not only transportation hubs but also carry the cultural memory and life philosophy of the ancient town. The surrounding waterways meander, with white walls and black tiles reflected in the water, and the lights at night add to the poetic atmosphere. As a representative landscape of the "Oriental Little Venice," the Three Bridges, together with attractions such as the Retreat & Reflection Garden and Jiayin Hall, constitute the charm of Tongli's water town, attracting tourists from all directions to explore the ancient charm of Jiangnan.