△ Night aerial view © Zhan Changheng
Haixin Bridge is the first pedestrian landscape bridge spanning the Pearl River in Guangzhou. Situated in the heart of the CBD, it connects Ersha Island Art Park to the north with the iconic Guangzhou Tower to the south. The bridge lies approximately 300 meters upstream from Guangzhou Bridge and about 1600 meters downstream from Liede Bridge, serving as a vital link in the slow traffic network that connects both sides of the river.
Northwest aerial view © Zhan Changheng
△ Shoreline daytime view © Zhan Changheng
Guangzhou’s central area is divided by the Pearl River, with world-class urban landscapes on both banks. What was missing was more than just a bridge—it was a connected urban public space. The pedestrian bridge curves gracefully to link the north and south, integrating seamlessly with existing pedestrian pathways while respecting the spatial order of the city’s central axis. This open design encircles the city center, offering panoramic views of the Pearl River’s core scenic spots.
△ Night view of Haixin Bridge © Dvalin
△ Aerial view © Zhan Changheng
Overview of Haixin Bridge (semi-aerial view) © South China University of Technology Architectural Design and Research Institute Co., Ltd
The bridge design embodies the region’s cultural heritage. Inspired by Lingnan culture elements such as water sleeves and the guqin musical instrument, the bridge deck landscape takes cues from the local water flower market. Rather than a traditional bridge, the deck incorporates flower boats that divide eastern and western spaces. Acting as an extension of the urban living room, the bridge offers a more dynamic and human-centered experience than a typical municipal structure.
△ Form generation © South China University of Technology Architectural Design and Research Institute Co., Ltd
△ Aerial view of Haixin Bridge © Yao Li
The bridge deck innovatively incorporates multi-level platforms, created by the height differences on either side of the main beam. Flower beds, seating areas, and two types of traffic zones are cleverly arranged above and below, balancing user experience with efficiency. This design caters to various pedestrian needs for both transit and viewing, generating a textured spatial experience that invigorates urban life.
△ Section perspective analysis of Haixin Bridge © South China University of Technology Architectural Design and Research Institute Co., Ltd
△ Step leisure night view © Yao Li
The bridge deck connects pedestrian pathways on both banks via gently sloped ramps, allowing visitors to relax and enjoy the views without constantly watching their step. Warm wood handrails reduce glare from nearby curtain walls, while carefully designed floodlighting avoids direct glare. Additional human-centered features include bump-proof fillets and spray cooling systems, ensuring accessibility and comfort for children, disabled users, and all visitors.
△ Haixin Bridge deck © Zhan Changheng
△ © Yao Li
△ Bridge deck activity analysis © South China University of Technology Architectural Design and Research Institute Co., Ltd
The segmented design of the bridge deck facilitates access from multiple directions, enhancing urban connectivity. The main span stretches 198 meters, featuring a 10-degree eastward inclined arch rising 56 meters tall. With a rise-to-span ratio of 1:3.4, the mid-span beam is 15 meters wide, widening to approximately 20 meters at its broadest point. This makes it the world’s largest-span and widest curved beam inclined arch pedestrian bridge. The bridge’s layout comprises three tangent circles, while the parabolic arch softens the skyline transition along both riverbanks. Its lightweight, transparent structure preserves the Pearl River’s sightlines and establishes the bridge as a prominent public landmark.
△ Bridge general plan © South China University of Technology Architectural Design and Research Institute Co., Ltd
△ Elevation drawing © South China University of Technology Architectural Design and Research Institute Co., Ltd
Designed as an urban public space, Haixin Bridge is more than just a crossing—it is a lively city hub. The deck offers an accessible urban environment for all residents. Since opening, it has become a venue for running, walking, relaxing, morning check-ins, children’s science education, community events, dragon boat races, and festival fireworks.
△ Aerial view of Japanese scenery © Pei Zejun
△ Daily scenery © Pei Zejun
Moreover, the bridge hosts concerts and serves as the finish line for marathons. It has become a favored venue for various urban public events of all sizes and types. Regionally, Haixin Bridge stands as a symbol of urban public space; from a user perspective, it is a unique setting for community activities.
△ Daily scenery © Ma Minghua
△ Aerial view © Yao Li
Project Drawings
△ General plan of Haixin Bridge © South China University of Technology Architectural Design and Research Institute Co., Ltd
△ Detailed sectional drawing © South China University of Technology Architectural Design and Research Institute Co., Ltd
△ Detailed drawing of Wind and Rain Corridor facade section © South China University of Technology Architectural Design and Research Institute Co., Ltd
△ Detailed curtain wall railing drawing © South China University of Technology Architectural Design and Research Institute Co., Ltd
△ Detailed drawing of wooden stool © South China University of Technology Architectural Design and Research Institute Co., Ltd
Project Information
Project Name: Guangzhou Haixin Bridge
Location: Guangzhou, Guangdong Province
Bridge Dimensions: 198m (length) × 56m (height) × 15m (width)
Structural Type: Mid-supported curved beam inclined arch pedestrian bridge
Design Firm: South China University of Technology Architectural Design and Research Institute Co., Ltd
Lead Architects: He Jingtang, Qiu Jianfa, Bao Ying
Architectural Design Team: Pei Zejun, Bao Huanhui, Cheng Xiaofei, Jiang Yaohui, He Jian, Chen Muqi, Huang Xueying, Li Kaixin, Su Hao, Guo Yuanxiang, Shen Xuelong, Zheng Yang, He Zhong, Lin Lin Xian Yong, Luo Huiling, Li Jiawen, Zhong Yingtao, Wei Lingliu Jing, Cen Hong, Jin Guan Baoling, Cen Xiaoyun
Structural and Municipal Design: Guangzhou Municipal Engineering Design and Research Institute Co., Ltd
Floodlight Design Partner: Beijing Tongheng and Ming Optoelectronics Research Institute Co., Ltd
Construction Contractor: China Railway Guangzhou Engineering Bureau Group
Owner: Guangzhou Construction Investment Development Co., Ltd
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