Songpu Bridge

Songpu Bridge: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Historical Sites in Shanghai

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction

Songpu Bridge, arching over the Huangpu River, is a landmark that captures Shanghai’s industrial ascent, urban unity, and engineering innovation. As the city’s first bridge to cross the upper Huangpu, it played a transformative role in connecting the Songjiang and Jinshan districts, fueling economic integration, and inspiring future infrastructure projects. Its distinctive double-deck steel truss design—supporting both road traffic above and rail below—stands as a milestone in Chinese civil engineering and remains a compelling historical and cultural destination (SHINE News; Wikipedia).

This guide provides a comprehensive overview of Songpu Bridge’s history, architectural significance, visiting details (including hours, access, and tickets), travel tips, and nearby attractions, offering valuable insights for travelers, historians, and locals alike (Culture Shock Shanghai; Shanghai Heritage).

Historical Background
Architectural & Engineering Highlights
Visiting Songpu Bridge
FAQs
Conclusion
Sources

Historical Background

Conception and Construction

Early 20th-century proposals for a fixed crossing over the Huangpu River gained real traction in the 1970s, as Shanghai’s industrial and suburban districts pressed for better connectivity. With ferries as the only means to cross, transportation bottlenecks hindered economic growth until plans for the Songpu Bridge were finalized in 1974. Construction began that April, featuring a double-deck steel truss design with a lower railway deck and an upper highway deck. By September 1975, the railway deck opened, followed by the highway deck in June 1976, celebrated by a citywide parade (Shine.cn; Wikipedia).

Structural Features

Stretching over 3,000 meters with approaches included, Songpu Bridge’s upper deck supports two 9-meter-wide motorways and pedestrian sidewalks, while the lower deck (until 2012) carried a single-track railway to the Jinshan industrial corridor. Its 28-meter-high piers and robust steel trusses exemplify the technical achievements of the era (Wikipedia).

Naming and Significance

Originally the “Huangpu River Bridge,” it became Cheting Bridge in 1989 and was finally renamed Songpu Bridge in 1995, echoing the local practice of combining district and river names (as with “Nanpu” and “Yangpu”) (Wikipedia; Shine.cn). As the first bridge across the upper Huangpu, it served as a critical link for industry and community, particularly supporting the Shanghai Petrochemical Complex and setting the stage for subsequent bridges in the city’s rapid expansion (Culture Shock Shanghai).

Evolution and Renovations

Songpu Bridge has seen several upgrades, including a major overhaul from 2007–2008 and a more recent modernization project that elevated the structure by 20 centimeters, widened the upper deck, and adapted the lower deck for pedestrian and cyclist use (SHINE News). These works preserved the bridge’s historic character while extending its utility and lifespan.

Architectural & Engineering Highlights

Double-Deck Design

Songpu Bridge pioneered Shanghai’s double-deck infrastructure, with the upper level for vehicles and the lower for trains. This dual-purpose approach maximized space and efficiency, serving the city’s industrial and commuter needs (SHINE News).

Materials and Innovations

Constructed with high-strength concrete and steel, the bridge’s piers and superstructure were engineered to support heavy rail and road traffic. The use of reinforced concrete and steel trusses ensured resilience against environmental stressors.

Modern Upgrades

Recent renovations expanded the upper deck from two lanes to six, using lighter high-strength materials to avoid overloading original piers. The bridge’s elevation improved navigability for shipping, and modular construction methods minimized disruption and costs (SHINE News).

Urban Integration

Strategically positioned at Desheng Harbor in Chedun Town, the bridge connected the then-remote industrial zones with Shanghai’s core, fueling regional development and setting a precedent for future river crossings (SHINE News).

Engineering Challenges

Raising the bridge’s clearance and reinforcing piers for wider decks required advanced hydraulic and structural techniques. The adaptive reuse of the lower deck for non-motorized transit exemplifies sustainable, community-focused engineering (SHINE News).

Visiting Songpu Bridge

Hours & Tickets

Pedestrian/Cyclist Access: Lower deck open daily from 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM.
Vehicle Access: Upper deck open 24/7.
Admission: Free; no tickets required.

Accessibility

Pedestrians/Cyclists: Smooth, well-lit pathways and ramps at both ends.
Wheelchair Access: Ramps and barrier-free walkways ensure accessibility.
Note: Elevators are not present.

Directions

Location: Desheng Harbor, Chedun Town, connecting Songjiang and Jinshan districts.
By Metro: Songjiang South Railway Station (Line 9), then taxi or bus.
By Bus: Several routes from Songjiang and Jinshan serve the bridge.
By Car: Via G15 Shenhai Expressway or 320 National Highway.
Parking: Available at bridge approaches.

Nearby Attractions

Songjiang Ancient Town: Historic temples, gardens, and cultural sites.
Zhujiajiao Water Town: Canal-lined streets and traditional architecture.
Minhang Sports Park: Recreation facilities and riverfront greenways.
Huangpu Riverside Greenway: Scenic walking and cycling routes.

Guided Tours & Events

Local tour operators occasionally offer heritage walks and cycling events featuring the bridge. Anniversary celebrations and special photo walks are also held; check local event listings.

Photography Tips

Best Views: Sunrise and sunset for golden hues; nighttime for illuminated trusses.
Vantage Points: Sidewalks, riverbanks, and nearby parks.
Equipment: Wide-angle lens recommended.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What are the bridge’s visiting hours?
A: Pedestrian/cyclist paths: 6:00 AM–10:00 PM; vehicle traffic: 24/7.

Q: Is there an entrance fee?
A: No, access is free.

Q: How do I reach Songpu Bridge by public transport?
A: Metro Line 9 to Songjiang South, then taxi/bus; buses also run from Songjiang and Jinshan.

Q: Is Songpu Bridge wheelchair accessible?
A: Yes, via ramps and barrier-free walkways.

Q: Are there amenities on or near the bridge?
A: Nearby neighborhoods and parks offer restrooms, eateries, and shops.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, through local operators specializing in industrial and architectural heritage.

Conclusion

Songpu Bridge exemplifies Shanghai’s journey from industrial heartland to modern metropolis. Its pioneering double-deck structure, ongoing modernization, and community integration make it both a vital transport link and a rich historical site. With free access, scenic views, and proximity to cultural attractions, it is a must-visit for those exploring Shanghai’s infrastructure and heritage.