Flower Bridges
There are altogether five of these covered bridges along the tranquil Zhaoxing River.
The roofed Flower Bridges which the Dongs have dubbed "wind and rain" bridges are best-known for their unique architectural style.
The flower bridges are more of roof covered buildings across the river, as most bridges are covered with pavilions.
The bridges are built with fir timbers, with projecting eaves and tile interlocks. The columns and planks are engineered to fit together tightly without using nails.
Through the centuries, these five covered Flower Bridges have watched the Zhaoxing River flowing gracefully into Duliu River, then eventually into South Sea. At the same time, they have also witnessed the flowering of the local culture of the Dong people.
The bridges have earned the name "flower bridges" because of the exquisite sculptures that cover them. On a raining day, to sit in the bridge pavilion and chat with friends is one of the most pleasurable experiences.
Colorful life activities can be witness in the Flower Bridges. Flourishing textile tradition is apparent most everywhere. Time-honored traditions of weaving, spinning and dyeing continue to thrive. Long narrow strips of indigo-dyed cloth dry on stony river banks or flat grass fields after soaking the fabric in wooden tubs of pig's blood. Mothers walking to market carry their children in finely embroidered or woven baby carriers of harmonious design.
Roofed with tiles engraved with flowers, the bridges have on their sides five large pagoda-like, multi-tier pavilions beautifully decorated with carvings. The Flower Bridges are covered walkways with railings and benches for people to sit on and enjoy the scenes around.
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