This impressive bridge with hundreds of lion sculptures has gained world fame as the site of a clash between Chinese and Japanese troops.

A walk over Marco Polo Bridge takes you back in time, in the footsteps of its namesake, the famous Venetian explorer. This huge granite bridge over the Yongding River is also known as the Lugou Bridge. It was first constructed in the late 12th century, even though the present bridge is only about three centuries old.

It’s easy to see why this structure caught the attention of Marco Polo, who praised it in his 13th-century travelogues. The original 1192 structure was washed away, but a reconstruction in 1698 saw its revival.

Present-day visitors come here to admire the beauty of the bridge and learn about its architectural and historical relevance. The bridge is 874 feet (266 meters) in length and has 11 arches, 10 piers and 281 pillars. This is the spot where Japanese and Chinese troops first exchanged fire in 1937, starting the second Sino-Japanese war.

Inspect the hundreds of elaborate stone lion carvings on the bridge. Each lion is different and some can be traced back to the Jin Dynasty of 1115-1234. Legend has it that the fierce creatures come alive at night.

Large stone monuments adorn each end of the bridge. One records the history of renovation of the bridge and the other features an inscription from Emperor Qianlong. Freely translated it reads: “The Moon over the Lugou at Dawn.” Carved stone elephants keeping guard at the both ends of the bridge.

After leaving the bridge, check out the nearby Wanping City Wall and free Sculpture Garden while you are in the area.

Marco Polo Bridge is situated in the Fengtai District and is nearly 10 miles (16 kilometers) southwest of Tiananmen Square in central Beijing. Take a bus to Kang Zhan Diao Su Yuan Station and walk from there or take a taxi to the bridge.

There is a small admission fee for the bridge and the opening hours are seasonal, with longer hours in summer.

Plan a trip to see Marco Polo Bridge

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Holiday Inn Express Beijing Yizhuang by IHG

Yizhuang

￥95,489

per person

Sep 17 - Sep 22

found 14 hours ago

Roundtrip non-stop flight included

Tokyo (TYO) to Beijing (PEK)

8.6/10 Excellent! (159 reviews)

The free breakfast is unbelievable delicious and enriched varieties. The service bar prepares the noodle and wanton by request by customer for unique ordering.

Reviewed on Jun 1, 2026

Dongdan Hotel Beijing

Downtown Beijing

￥98,052

per person

Sep 17 - Sep 22

found 14 hours ago

Roundtrip non-stop flight included

Tokyo (TYO) to Beijing (PEK)

7.8/10 Good! (37 reviews)

The location is excellent, only steps to the subway. There's a large variety of food options in the neighbourhood. The large and very long, Mall at Orient Plaza is directly across the street. Hotel wise the staff were welcoming, the room was tidy and clean. Literally the only thing missing would be a mini fridge in the room. I'll stay here again the next time I'm in Beijing.

Reviewed on May 7, 2026

M Hotel

Downtown Beijing

￥105,450

per person

Sep 17 - Sep 22

found 14 hours ago

Roundtrip non-stop flight included

Tokyo (TYO) to Beijing (PEK)

8/10 Very Good! (18 reviews)

Arrived, having booked a triple room. The room however only had one double bed. We explained that there should be an extra bed in the room to reception, but one was refused until we agreed to pay extra for it. All this was difficult as the receptionists could not speak any English. When the bed was delivered to the room there was no mattress just a base with duvet on top. Very disappointed.

Reviewed on May 30, 2026