Daxi Bridge Introduction
The Daxi Bridge, spanning the Dahan River, is located beneath Zhongzheng Park and connects the bicycle path on the left bank of the Dahan River, allowing pedestrians and cyclists to cross. In addition to the cable-stayed lights that illuminate the riverside at night, enhancing the night scenery, the bridge features Baroque architectural style similar to that of Daxi Old Street. The two ends of the bridge connect Daxi Ruian Road Section 1 and Daxi Old Street, making it an ideal spot for a cultural and culinary getaway during the weekends. Built in the 23rd year of the Republic of China, the Daxi Bridge was originally constructed as a bamboo and wood plank bridge stacked with stone, serving as an important transportation route for Daxi residents and fostering close ties between residents on both sides of the river. It was later renovated during the Japanese colonial period into a 280-meter long double-span steel cable suspension bridge, which resembles its current form. With the opening of Wuling Bridge and the Second Peripheral Road, the Daxi Bridge gradually lost its significance for transportation. Additionally, after being battered by typhoons, it underwent two reconstructions. Under the concept of "community overall planning," a beautification project was initiated, leading to the official start of construction in the 90th year of the Republic of China, transforming the Daxi Bridge into a 330-meter long reinforced concrete bridge with 13 piers. The renovated Daxi Bridge mimics the old Daxi suspension bridge from the Japanese era, featuring a vintage archway at the entrance and a half-circle decorative canopy that impressively resembles a castle. Crossing through the Baroque-style embossed archway, visitors can walk along a pathway made of red bricks and tiles, admiring the Baroque-style bridge that echoes the ambiance of Daxi Old Street. The gray-white carvings reflect the classic elegance that complements the street scene, and benches are available on the bridge for visitors to rest. Besides the recreational facilities on the bridge, the views from it are also one of Daxi's signature sights, offering distant vistas of Shimen Reservoir and Guanyin Mountain. Flanking the Daxi Bridge are Wuling Bridge and Kanjin Bridge, providing a beautiful view of the valley, rocks, and distant bridges intertwined. Although the famous scenery of "Kanjin Returning Sails" from a century ago is no longer visible, visitors can still reminisce about the grandeur of the past while enjoying the gentle breeze. If visiting in the evening, don’t rush to leave; this is a great spot to watch the sunset. When the lights are turned on at night, the bridge becomes even more dazzling and exotic, showcasing a glamorous aspect of Daxi Bridge, which has earned the nickname of "Lover's Bridge," especially attracting many photography enthusiasts. During weekends, street performers entertain with spinning tops or music, and visitors can also enjoy the "Eternal Love" spinning tops, which are said to enhance love when spun according to instructions, witnessing the love vows between couples.
