As the winter solstice approaches, Beijing’s iconic Seventeen Arch Bridge transforms into a golden spectacle, with sunlight perfectly aligning through its 17 arches at sunset. 🌉 This annual phenomenon at the Summer Palace merges ancient engineering brilliance with nature’s artistry, drawing crowds of travelers and Instagrammers alike!
Why It’s Lit 🔥
Built during the Qing Dynasty, the bridge showcases how architects literally calculated solar angles centuries ago – no GPS needed! The ‘golden nail’ effect (when light pierces all arches) lasts only 10-15 minutes daily around mid-December, making it a FOMO-worthy moment for photographers 📸 and history buffs.
Visitor Vibes 🎒
\"It’s like the past high-fiving the present,\" said Lin Wei, a local student who’s attended three times. International tourists are equally awed: \"I’ve never seen science and beauty collab this hard,\" laughed Marco Rossi, a traveler from Italy.
Pro Tip ✨
Arrive early – the Summer Palace (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) gets packed! Bonus: Nearby frozen Kunming Lake offers icy selfie opportunities ❄️.
Reference(s):
Twilight shines through famous Seventeen Arch Bridge in Beijing
cgtn.com