This beautiful bridge is the handiwork of the Dong minority, one of several ethnic minority groups found in Guangxi and neighboring Guizhou. Designed to offer protection from the elements, such bridges are aptly called "wind and rain bridges" and are found scattered throughout the region.

Spanning the Linxi River at Chengyang near Sanjiang, this is one of the finest examples there is. Also known as Yongji Bridge or Panlong Bridge, it is 78 meters in length, features five ornate towers, and took villagers 12 years to build back at the turn of the last century (1916). Constructed in the traditional Dong style, it includes characteristic tribal horned corners and benches along its length. As well as being incredibly elegant to behold, it's quite a feat of engineering—not a single nail or rivet is used to hold it together.

Surrounded by lush green paddy fields, it's a peaceful enough spot, though by day a fair few tourists saunter through, usually for a quick picture by the bridge before heading off for the next stop. Stick around until night, however and things quiet down considerably—and a stroll along the river by the illuminated bridge and water wheels is a great way to round off your day.

One of the best spots to stay is the Chengyang Bridge Hostel located right next to the bridge and decorated with red lanterns—you can't miss it. The rooms are simple but the staff helpful, and if you can snag a front room, the view of the bridge is gorgeous in the early morning light.

Just behind the bridge is the the charming village of Ma'an. One of eight famous Dong stockade villages in the area (Pingzhai, Yanzhai, Chengyang-Dazhai, Pingpu, Pingtan, Jichang and Guandong are the others, all of which are great for village-to-village biking or hiking jaunts), Ma'an offers several other places to stay and a provides a delightful peek into Dong lifestyle and culture. 

There is a charge for accessing the bridge, and tickets are only sold between 9:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m.. Arrive in the evening, however, and you're free to wander around as you please.