This bridge is part of Lanzhou's history as the first bridge across the Yellow River and was originally built in 1907 during the 33rd year of Emperor Guangxu's reign (Qing Dynasty, which came to an end in 1911). The bridge provides easy access to various Lanzhou attractions. At the north end of the bridge is White Pagoda Mountain and access to the park along the north shore of the river. At the south end of the bridge is access to the park along the south shore of the river and not far from other area attractions such as the water wheel and the mother river statue. From the south side of the bridge you can also easily walk to Zhangye Walking Street. The bridge is a popular photo spot for the locals.

The Zhongshan Bridge, Lanzhou across the Yellow River is famous for its historical significance and today provides pedestrians with a valuable thoroughfare between the CBD, the parks on the southern side of the river, and the famous White Pagoda Park on the northern side. Originally built in 1372 as the Zhenyuan Bridge and reputedly the first bridge to span the Yellow River, it has been rebuilt in slightly different locations many times. The current bridge was built by the German Shangtailai Company in 1907. While it might not be as spectacular as other historic bridges in China, it has a certain quaintness and charm that attracts locals and tourists alike. It has a simple design with an air of austerity. As a foreign tourist, I suggest spending a little time here at sunset and night time taking photos and people watching. Think of it also as a conduit for tackling the walks in the White Pagoda Mountain Park nearby and for traversing the many riverside parks. I crossed the bridge in winter just before sunset when the usual yellow colour of the river was more a blue shade and very photogenic. Locals came to talk to me as I pondered my map and we shared stories using a translation app. It is a wonderful connecting and meeting place, much loved by locals. It’s far more than an iron bridge.