Mysterious bridges bring fortune to Lijiang

The unique layout of seven ancient bridges in Dayan Ancient Town of Lijiang, Yunnan province, has been observed to mysteriously resemble that of a seven star constellation.

The mystery behind the bridges adds further archaeological value to the town built with ancient Chinese aesthetics.

One of the bridges, "Seven Star Bridge", which crosses the Jade River, is only one oriented in a north-south direction among the other bridges.

It is said that the bridge, along with its nearby temple, was built to bring fortune and ward against the bad fengshui of the Jade River.

According to the philosophy of fengshui, the curves of a river determine its underlying "dragon veins" beneath the earth which determine the flow of energy (or qi) throughout the region. Certain layouts of rivers are thought to be favorable.

The well-preserved seven bridges are some of the most representative structures in Lijiang, adding mystery to the water system framework in the ancient town.

Dayan ancient town, with a history of over 800 years, is a world heritage site and is considered to be one of the most ideal places for a holiday in Yunnan province.

Visitors cross Yulong Bridge, one of the seven ancient bridges. [Photo/Yunnan.cn]

The temple has a main hall and a side hall. [Photo/yunnan.cn]

The "Seven Star Bridge" crosses the Jade River. [Photo/yunnan.cn]

Edited by Zachary Dye