🌉 Seventeen-Arch Bridge | Gateway to the Lake & Sky 🇨🇳🐉🌅

📝 1. Overview
The Seventeen-Arch Bridge (十七孔桥) is the most iconic bridge in the Summer Palace, stretching elegantly across Kunming Lake to Nanhu Island (South Lake Island). Built during the Qing Dynasty, this 150-meter-long stone bridge is known for its seventeen graceful arches, majestic lion carvings, and perfect symmetry. It’s not just a passage—it’s a visual masterpiece that captures the harmony between imperial architecture and natural scenery. Whether bathed in sunrise, sunset, or winter snow, it’s a must-see highlight for every visitor.

🌟 2. Highlights
🌉 Seventeen Arches – The central arch is the tallest, symbolizing balance and imperial grandeur
🦁 544 Stone Lions – Each lion on the balustrades has a unique pose and expression—try spotting the tiny cubs too!
🏞️ Reflection Views – The bridge’s arches cast poetic shadows and reflections on Kunming Lake
⛩️ Connects to Nanhu Island – Home to charming pavilions, lakeside paths, and the Dragon King Temple
🌅 Golden Hour Glow – Especially magical at dawn and dusk, with the bridge glowing in soft light
❄️ Winter Freeze Scene – When the lake ices over, it looks like a bridge to a fairytale world

💡 3. Tips
📸 Best photo spots:
📷 From the lakeshore near Longevity Hill – Capture the entire bridge framed by water and sky
📷 Standing on the bridge – Beautiful line of arches leading to Nanhu Island
📷 Winter or sunset – For dramatic contrast and lighting
🧥 Windy across the bridge—bring a scarf or hat, especially in cooler seasons
🕐 Best visited in early morning or late afternoon for light and fewer crowds
🎟️ Included in Summer Palace entrance; no extra ticket needed for bridge access
🚶‍♀️ Wheelchair-accessible to the base, but the bridge itself has stone steps

🍽️ 4. Nearby Eats – Top 3 near Seventeen-Arch Bridge

1. Nanhu Island Teahouse
   🍵 Quiet tea and light snacks with lake views
   📍 Right after crossing the bridge
   🕒 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
   🌊 Great for a peaceful rest stop
2. Lotus Snack Pavilion
   🥟 Street-style dumplings, noodles, and drinks
   📍 Near the base of the bridge (Kunming Lake shore)
   🕒 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
   🚶 Ideal for a quick bite
3. Yiheyuan Restaurant
   🍽️ Imperial-style dining in a classic courtyard
   📍 East side of the lake, ~10 min walk from bridge
   🕒 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM
   🎭 A proper meal with historical flavor

🍽️ 4B. Sub-Zone Picks – Recommended Stops Around the Bridge
🌉 Seventeen-Arch Bridge
Central Arch – Tallest arch, perfect for photo framing
Lion Carvings – Walk slow and admire the details
📿 Nanhu Island
Dragon King Temple – Small but beautifully preserved
Lakeside Pavilion – Peaceful rest area with excellent views back toward Longevity Hill
Stone Trails – Loop around the island for new lake angles

🚗 5. Access
📍 From Beijing center
🚗 ~45–60 min by car
🚇 Line 4 to Beigongmen Station → 15–20 min walk through the Summer Palace
📍 Local Travel
🚶 Walk to bridge from any major Summer Palace gate (~15 min from North or East Gates)
🛶 Optional: take a boat from Marble Boat or South Gate dock to Nanhu Island
🛏️ Stay in Haidian District or nearby guesthouses for full-day access to Summer Palace

The Seventeen-Arch Bridge isn’t just a crossing—it’s a corridor of beauty, balance, and breathtaking symmetry, connecting you to the heart of Beijing’s imperial lake paradise.