[2025 Jianshui Attraction] Travel Guide for Xianghuiqiao Station (Updated Mar)

Jianshui, in the colorful Yunnan province, is a true treasure trove, with each attraction possessing its own unique charm. Passing by the Xiang Hui Bridge, I was captivated by its rich history and decided to explore it with my family. The Xiang Hui Bridge derives its name from the provincial and metropolitan examinations of the Qing Dynasty's imperial examination system. This name instantly evokes a sense of profound cultural heritage, seemingly narrating the stories of past scholars who journeyed to the examination halls in pursuit of their dreams. It sparked my curiosity and a yearning to learn more. From afar, the Xiang Hui Bridge stretches across the Lujiang River, resembling a slumbering dragon. This three-arched stone bridge, approximately 102 meters long, is constructed from green stone arches. A closer look reveals a classic brick, wood, and stone pavilion-style covered bridge, spanning the Lujiang River from east to west in a distinctive "L" shape. The pavilion on the bridge is particularly unique, with a three-tiered upper level. In the center stands the Wenxing Pavilion, its flying eaves and intricate brackets exuding grandeur, evoking images of scholars composing poems, painting, and engaging in intellectual discussions. The lower level serves as a passage for people and horses, silently witnessing the passage of time. As the only covered bridge among Jianshui County's ancient bridges, its unique character sets it apart, making it a true gem of Jianshui. Adjacent to the Xiang Hui Bridge is the Xiang Hui Town Office, a typical example of traditional Jianshui residential architecture, with quaint houses arranged in a charmingly irregular pattern. Unfortunately, it was closed during my visit. Walking back to the Xiang Hui Bridge Station, fatigue began to set in. The coffee shop next to the station proved to be the perfect place to rest. I ordered a cup of aromatic coffee and sat by the window, taking in the beautiful scenery outside. The station area is adorned with vibrant flowers in a riot of colors, swaying gently in the breeze like a moving painting. Whether quietly savoring the coffee or capturing the beautiful moments with a camera, the experience is truly captivating, allowing one to forget the hustle and bustle of the world. Transportation: 1. Driving is the most convenient option, as it is very difficult to hail a car in this area. 2. Public buses are available, but the journey takes longer, with buses running every hour. 3. The small tourist train only stops briefly and does not go to the Xiang Hui Bridge itself; you can only explore the area around the station. The walk from Xiang Hui Bridge Station to the Xiang Hui Bridge is approximately 500 meters.

|Jianshui Little Train's Second Stop, Xianghuqiao Station..Sketching While Traveling | Jianshui Little Train's 2nd Stop, Xianghuqiao Station. When you come to Jianshui, how can you not experience the Jianshui Little Train? Ticket Purchase Channels → Book 4 days in advance on Trip.com --------------------------------------- Transportation: ①Lin'an Station ②Shuanglong Bridge ③Xianghuqiao Station ④Tuanshan Residential Houses →Self-driving is also an option --------------------------------------- ■Xinfang Village 📍Located in Xizhuang Town, Jianshui County, Honghe Hani and Yi Autonomous Prefecture, it's a real-life version of a paradise. With over 600 years of history, it has a rich farming and scholarly culture. The village's 28 ancient houses, with their carved beams and painted rafters, hold stories of the past, and the ancient bridges and wells carry the memories of ancestors. 🌱The agriculture here is unique, with vast fields of Wogan tangerines, passion fruit orchards, and lotus root and strawberry fields. Follow the farmers through the fields, picking and eating fresh, sweet, and juicy fruits – this is the true taste of the countryside. Attractions →Huang Family Ancestral Hall →Memorial Archway →Lotus Field (There are large lotus flowers in the summer, especially beautiful) --------------------------------------- ■Xianghuqiao Station Xianghuqiao Bridge has a history of over 600 years. As a landmark of Xinfang Village, it has witnessed countless changes over the years. It has a simple and elegant design, built with local stone, and the bridge is carved with exquisite and intricate patterns of flowers, birds, fish, and insects, each detail showcasing the ancient craftsmanship. Standing on the bridge, you can enjoy a panoramic view of Xinfang Village's idyllic scenery. In the distance are vast rice paddies and scattered ancient houses, and below are murmuring streams. Taking photos here creates a wonderful atmosphere, whether you're capturing landscapes or portraits. Especially at sunset, the afterglow on the bridge is breathtakingly beautiful. In addition to the French-style architecture, a check-in spot similar to the movie "Youth".

My friends, I recently discovered an awesome travel destination - Jianshui, Yunnan. While I'm still excited after just coming back from there, I'd like to share with you this 48-hour guide to sightseeing and eating in the ancient city. It will definitely help you open the door to surprises in Jianshui and let you immerse yourself in the unique charm of this thousand-year-old city! This time I chose to travel during off-peak hours, flying to Kunming first and then taking the high-speed rail to Jianshui. I have to say, this decision was very wise! As soon as I got off the car, I was surrounded by the quaint and tranquil atmosphere of Jianshui, as if time had slowed down and I relaxed instantly. As soon as you arrive in Jianshui, the most intuitive feeling is that you are so happy that bubbles appear in your eyes! Here, rice noodle freedom, strawberry freedom, and blueberry freedom are easily achieved, and your taste buds start a carnival party. This trip allowed me to truly appreciate the charm of Jianshui cuisine and feel the city’s liveliness and human touch. I just arrived in Mengzi from Jianshui today, but my heart is still in Jianshui. I can't wait to sort out this guide overnight, hoping to give some reference to friends who want to go to Jianshui. Remember to like and collect it~ 1. The poetic feeling of living in Jianshui For accommodation, I strongly recommend that you stay in the ancient city. In the early morning, when you open the window, what comes into view is a field of green tiles, as if you are in an ancient ink painting. Moreover, you can find a variety of delicious rice noodle shops within a 5-minute walk from your residence, which is very convenient to start a full day. Living in an ancient city, you can not only feel the charm of history, but also go shopping and eat anytime and anywhere. It is so comfortable. 2. The satisfaction of eating in Jianshui Hongbo rice noodles 💰10 yuan This store is near the internet celebrity "Lin'an Flavor". To be honest, Lin'an tastes pretty good too, but in my heart, Hongbo rice noodles are better. The soup base of their grass sprout pork rice noodles was so delicious that I almost licked the bowl clean. I could taste the rich and fresh flavor in every bite. Paired with beef jerky fried rice, the aroma of beef and the softness of rice blend perfectly, it's simply a "god-like" combination. Moreover, you can freely add mint leaves according to your taste, which adds a unique freshness to the food. Dabanjing Tofu Shop 💰5 yuan Soy milk and tofu pudding are all you can eat, great value for money! As soon as you walk into the store, you can smell the strong bean aroma. The fried tofu skin here is especially delicious. When you take a bite, the crispy texture spreads in your mouth instantly, making you unable to stop eating. I was almost moved to tears while eating it. Jianshui Renjia 💰60 yuan/person In this restaurant, you must try the fried meat with grass sprouts. Grass sprouts are a special ingredient that only Jianshui has. The taste is like a perfect combination of tender bamboo shoots and wild rice stems. It is refreshing, crispy and tender. When paired with meat slices, it is simply a delicacy. There are also pomegranate flowers, whose unique taste makes people feel as if they are eating the entire spring, and every bite is full of vitality and vigor. Xiaobo BBQ This is a super popular BBQ restaurant, so popular that the average waiting time is one and a half hours. We couldn't wait, so we ate some grilled tofu at their grilled tofu stall first. I have to say that both the coated tofu and the stinky tofu were baked to perfection. The coated tofu would burst when you bite it, giving you a full sense of happiness. If you have enough time, I suggest you wait for the main course. I believe you will not be disappointed. Tamarind Tree Cold Drink Shop This is an old shop that has been open for a long time. As soon as you enter the door, you can see a pile of peeled tamarinds on the table, which instantly aroused my appetite. The tamarind juice they make is rich and pure in flavor, far better than any other bottled beverage. I strongly recommend that you buy 2 cups and stock up on them. You can take a sip when you feel tired from shopping. The sour and sweet taste will instantly dispel your fatigue. 3. Surprises in Jianshui Walk through the ancient city and encounter life Confucian Temple, Zhu Family Garden, Jade Emperor Pavilion, Four-Eyed Well, Daban Well, Xiaojie Well, this route connects the essence of the ancient city. Strolling through the alleys of the ancient city, feeling the breeze on your face, and watching the leisurely and comfortable life of the locals, it seems as if you have become part of this city. If you go to Dabanjing in the early morning, you can see local people drawing water. It is full of life and any shot you take will turn out to be a blockbuster. Cycling to catch the train, embracing freedom You can choose to take a small train and enjoy the scenery along the way; you can also rent an electric car and speed along the country road to Shuanglong Bridge, Xianghui Bridge and Xianghui Bridge Station. Along the way, the breeze was blowing and the scenery of the fields was in full view. The feeling of freedom was really healing. Treasure hunting in the market, exploring novelties Hanjia Market is very lively, with many local specialties and delicacies, which are dazzling. Be sure to go to the berry stall inside the market to buy strawberries and blueberries. Not only are they more affordable than at the market entrance, but they also taste sweeter. White strawberries have a unique flavor, with a unique milky and floral aroma that leaves a lasting aftertaste. I'll tell you a hidden way to eat it. You can eat grass sprout rice noodles at the "Ma Laobiao Halal Beef Shop" outside the market. There's so much beef in the bowl, and it's so filling that you'll feel so happy. 4. Travel Tips Grass sprouts are a specialty ingredient in Jianshui. You must try them when you come to Jianshui. They have a unique taste and you must not miss them. When buying strawberries, look for the berry stalls in the market. The prices are more affordable and the quality is guaranteed. Jianshui is really a treasure trove of travel destinations. The ancient buildings here are quieter than those in Dali, without too much commercial atmosphere, allowing people to truly feel the sedimentation of history. Every local I met here was very friendly and their hospitality made the city even warmer. If your Yunnan travel list has not been finalized, then I strongly recommend that you put Jianshui at the top. I believe that when you come here, you will fall in love with this ancient city like I do!

Nostalgic Shilin, Yunnan Toot... the narrow-gauge train started The train was driven by an experienced driver The conductor checked tickets, and tourists boarded the train one by one. The old man holding the red and green flags first checked the switch, then returned to the platform. When the train turned on its headlights and let out a long toot, he waved the green flag in his hand, indicating that the train could depart. When I first left home to go to college, I took a green steam train like this. This scene is full of excitement and memories. Unfortunately, I wasn't on this train, so I had to drive back to Jianshui. The "Xianghui Bridge Station" in Jianshui in the picture was encountered on the way back to Jianshui Ancient Town from Shilin.

Near Xianghui Bridge Station is Xianghui Bridge, which is very traditional Chinese in style compared to the French-style station. This ancient bridge was built during the Jiaqing period of the Qing Dynasty. It is a three-arch stone bridge, with the middle arch being the largest and the two side arches symmetrically distributed. The most striking feature of Xianghui Bridge is the building on the bridge. This is a bridge completely covered by a building, a famous covered bridge in Jianshui. The building on the bridge is called Wenxing Pavilion, which is simple and elegant with a lot of charm.

There is a famous small train station in Jianshui County, Honghe Prefecture, Yunnan called Xianghuiqiao Station. This is a building with a history of nearly a hundred years. It is also the only station on the Bishi Railway that combines Chinese and Western elements and is the most distinctive station. Built in 1932, it had office buildings, terminals, platforms, and freight yards when completed. According to information, there used to be three railway tracks in the station, one for trains to stop at the station, one for trains to make way for meeting trains, and the other for train dispatching, retention, and cargo loading and unloading. Now there is only one meter track left for tourists to visit and experience. The station building of Xianghuiqiao Station cleverly combines two construction methods. It is a single-eave modern building that combines Chinese and French architectural features. The outer wall is unified in the yellow color of the jade stone railway platform building at that time. The station building is one of the few buildings that is well-preserved today. The mottled yellow walls and faded green window lattice of the station, these two almost perfect color combinations, make the picture full of comic-like beauty. The current Xianghuiqiao Station and the remaining "meter track" have become the best background for people to check in and take photos.

In the afternoon on the plateau, the sky is azure and cloudless, and the sun is scorching like fire. When the famous Jianshui small train carries a carload of tourists away from the Xianghui Bridge station, it returns to its original state. Since the Sui and Tang dynasties, the imperial examination has been the foremost cultural event in various parts of China. Building bridges and paving roads for the smooth transportation of examinees was a consensus among officials and civilians. Moreover, Jianshui, then known as Lin'an, had the reputation of having the highest imperial examination pass rate in Yunnan. Surprisingly, on this ordinary afternoon, local people still sit and rest at Xianghui Bridge, which serves multiple functions such as transportation, shelter from rain, and a place for villagers to discuss matters, just like their ancestors did. Perhaps modern people are always pursuing efficiency and speed, but the goal is to enjoy the slow pace of life here. When people get tired of running, they inevitably need to sit down and rest, both in ancient and modern times. We just don't want to or dare to admit it.

Hometown Bridge Station, a branch line of the Yunnan-Vietnam Railway near Bi Linping, is an important site that integrates Chinese and French architectural styles. The surrounding environment is beautiful, with clear rivers, lush bamboo forests, and boundless fields, painting a picture of a Chinese version of the Provencal countryside. ✅ Must Experience: The Yunnan-Vietnam Railway connects Kunming in China with Haiphong Port in Vietnam (via the Sino-Vietnamese border at Hekou), running north to south with a total length of 859 kilometers, including 465 kilometers in the Yunnan section and 394 kilometers in the Vietnam section. As the first railway in Southwest China, it adopts the meter-gauge railway standard. 🚉 Travel Tips: Today's Hometown Bridge Station mainly operates sightseeing trains. You can take a train from Lin'an Station or Jianshui Ancient City Station, which is more about the experience; while taking a taxi or bus route 19 from Jianshui High-speed Railway Station is more time-efficient and cost-effective.

The Jianshui Narrow Gauge Train runs on a nearly century-old railway (narrow gauge refers to a track gauge of 1 meter) and was once part of the Yunnan-Vietnam Railway, designed and built by French engineers. Today, only this 13-kilometer section of the railway and four train stations remain for sightseeing. 🚇 If you're not a railway enthusiast, it's better to self-drive or take a taxi to enjoy the experience along this section of the railway because: 1️⃣ Compared to the scenery along the way, the three train stations and nearby attractions are more interesting. However, the train stops for a short time and doesn't allow for walking further away; when a group of tourists arrives, it's quite crowded, making it difficult to take photos at the train station. 2️⃣ The pastoral scenery along the way is not very impressive. 3️⃣ The ticket prices are relatively expensive. 🚇 Jianshui Narrow Gauge Train Timetable 101 (morning) /103 (afternoon) 9:00-10:30 /14:30-16:00 Lin'an-Shuanglong Bridge (30 minutes)-Xianghui Bridge (20 minutes)-Tuanshan 13:00-13:40 /17:50-18:30 Tuanshan-Lin'an (non-stop in between) Tickets Hard seat 120 yuan (peak season) /100 yuan (off-peak) Soft seat 150 yuan (peak season) /120 yuan (off-peak) 🌼 Just plan your visit according to the train timetable, and you can have a pleasant trip! 🚇 Photo and sightseeing tips Taking photos inside the train carriage: The best time is before departure and after arrival at Lin'an Station, and at noon at Tuanshan Station. You can enter the carriage without a ticket to take photos in an unoccupied area, but you must leave before the train departs. Taking photos at the train station: As long as it's not during the train's stop, there are very few visitors, and you can enter the platform without buying a ticket. 1️⃣ Lin'an Station The renovated train station combines Chinese and Western architecture and is also a railway museum, with a train clock, old station building, and locomotive, making it a great place for photos. I think it's the best platform for taking photos of the tracks. There's a delicious restaurant inside the station, a Chinese-style beverage shop at the entrance, and a cultural and creative shop is also here. Nearby is the Jianshui Ancient Town. 2️⃣ Shuanglong Bridge Station The main attraction is the Seventeen-Arch Bridge, similar to the one in the Summer Palace: Shuanglong Bridge. 3️⃣ Xianghui Bridge Station My favorite train station, which retains its appearance from a century ago, with mottled walls that bear the marks of time. The wooden stairs, doors, windows, and parquet floors inside the station are very photogenic. There's a beverage shop and tea room in the backyard, perfect for taking photos. Not far away is Jianshui's only covered bridge: Xianghui Bridge. 4️⃣ Tuanshan Station The exterior colonnade of Tuanshan Station is very distinctive, and there's a coffee shop inside, but it seems to only operate during the train's stop. Be sure to visit the nearby Tuanshan Village, a Han Chinese tribe in Yunnan that has been around for over 600 years.