Why is it called the Broken Bridge if it isn't broken?

The bridge is fully intact. The name comes from a winter effect: after snow, the sun-facing arch melts clear while the shaded side stays white, so from a distance the bridge appears to break in the middle. This 'Lingering Snow on the Broken Bridge' is one of West Lake's classic Ten Scenes.

What is the connection to the Legend of the White Snake?

In the famous Chinese folktale, the lovers Xu Xian and Bai Suzhen, the white snake in human form, first meet here in the rain and share an umbrella. For Chinese visitors the bridge is deeply romantic, which is why it stays crowded. Knowing the legend explains the emotional pull the spot has.

When should I visit the Broken Bridge?

Sunrise is ideal, when the bridge sits empty and mist rises off the lake, and just after rain is also lovely. The bridge anchors the east end of the Bai Causeway, is free, and never closes. From here you can walk west along the causeway toward Solitary Hill in about 1.5 km.

Broken Bridge (Bai Causeway), Hangzhou: Map & Visitor's Guide (2026)

North-shore bridge where the White Snake folktale set the lovers' first meeting — also the Lingering Snow on Broken Bridge UNESCO scene.

At a glance

What it is: Landmark
Also known as: 断桥（白堤） (Duànqiáo (Báidī))
Opening hours: Always open
Time needed: 30-45 min
Best time to visit: Sunrise or after rain
Getting there: Metro to the door
English: Some English signage
Cards accepted: Cash only
Entry: Walk-in — no booking
Wi-Fi: Free Wi-Fi
Address: Bai Causeway east end, North Shore · 北山街白堤东端

The Broken Bridge sits at the east end of the Bai Causeway (named for Tang poet Bai Juyi, who was governor before Su Dongpo). The name 'Broken' comes from the visual effect after snow — when snow remains on the south side but melts off the sun-facing arch, the bridge appears 'broken'. Pairs in folklore with the White Snake legend (the lovers Xu Xian + Bai Suzhen meet here in the rain). The Lingering Snow on Broken Bridge is one of the Ten Scenes of West Lake. Free entry, always open. Best for sunrise + after rain. Combine with Bai Causeway walk + Solitary Hill (1.5 km walk west).

Highlights

White Snake Lovers Meeting SettingThe Chinese folktale's first encounter
Lingering Snow Optical IllusionSnow melts unevenly across the arch

What Chinese travelers actually do here

Distilled from Chinese-language travel notes — the practical tips most English guides miss.

▸Come at sunrise; by mid-morning the narrow bridge fills with selfie-takers and the calm lake view is gone.
▸The bridge looks best photographed from the causeway approach, not from on top of it where you see only crowds.
▸After rain the wet stone and reflections give the most atmospheric shots, echoing the umbrella scene from the legend.
▸True 'broken' snow effect needs a fresh snowfall plus sun, which is rare; do not plan a winter trip around it.
▸Walk straight on west along the Bai Causeway toward Solitary Hill; most visitors stop at the bridge and miss the quieter stretch.
▸It is a 30-to-45-minute stop, not a destination; fold it into a north-shore lake walk rather than a special trip.
▸Evening lights make a different mood, and the bridge is free and open round the clock if dawn is too early for you.

Photos

A serene lake surrounded by lush greenery and mountains, featuring a picturesque stone bridge under clear blue skies.

A peaceful traditional Chinese pavilion nestled by a tranquil lake amid lush trees in Hangzhou, China.

Tranquil view of West Lake featuring a traditional pavilion amidst serene waters and distant hills.

A serene view of a traditional pavilion on a bridge surrounded by lush greenery and mountains in Hangzhou, China.

Picturesque view of West Lake with pagoda and boat, Hangzhou, China.

Serene view of a traditional Chinese pavilion reflecting on a tranquil lake in Hangzhou, China.

Serene twilight scene of West Lake in Hangzhou, showcasing a silhouetted pier and pagoda.

A peaceful lake scene featuring an arch bridge and lush greenery under a clear sky.

Serene scene of a Chinese pavilion and lotus pond at twilight in Hangzhou, China.

Aerial view of West Lake, Hangzhou with distant city skyline and boats on a sunny day.

Beautiful view of traditional Chinese architecture along West Lake in Hangzhou with boats and lush greenery in the background.

Tranquil scene of West Lake with peaceful waters and distant hills in Hangzhou, China.

A tranquil park setting with people on a bridge, surrounded by colorful autumn foliage.

A stunning aerial shot of a coastal highway stretching across expansive mudflats under clear skies.

What travelers say (3 reviews)

LegendsFan·TripAdvisor·4/5

Famous for Lady White Snake legend + snow-broken-bridge view. Free West Lake spot.

2026-04-10

断桥残雪·Ctrip·5/5

断桥残雪西湖十景！白娘子许仙传说发源地。免费。冬日雪景最美。

2026-03-18

Karen P.·Google Maps·4/5

More legend than bridge. Free. Cross to Bai Causeway from here.

2026-02-20

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West Lake Hangzhou — Walking the UNESCO Lake

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Frequently asked questions about Broken Bridge (Bai Causeway)

Why is it called the Broken Bridge if it isn't broken?: The bridge is fully intact. The name comes from a winter effect: after snow, the sun-facing arch melts clear while the shaded side stays white, so from a distance the bridge appears to break in the middle. This 'Lingering Snow on the Broken Bridge' is one of West Lake's classic Ten Scenes.
What is the connection to the Legend of the White Snake?: In the famous Chinese folktale, the lovers Xu Xian and Bai Suzhen, the white snake in human form, first meet here in the rain and share an umbrella. For Chinese visitors the bridge is deeply romantic, which is why it stays crowded. Knowing the legend explains the emotional pull the spot has.
When should I visit the Broken Bridge?: Sunrise is ideal, when the bridge sits empty and mist rises off the lake, and just after rain is also lovely. The bridge anchors the east end of the Bai Causeway, is free, and never closes. From here you can walk west along the causeway toward Solitary Hill in about 1.5 km.