Seventeen-Arch Bridge (Beijing)

Built in 1750, the Seventeen-Arch Bridge is one of the most popular spots in the Summer Palace, formerly the imperial garden of the Qing Dynasty (1644-1911).

The number of its arches means that when people count from either side of the bridge, the central arch is always the ninth, the favorite “lucky number” of the royal family.

The bridge attracts thousands of visitors hoping to catch sight of the setting sun shining through the bridge over the Kunming Lake.

The spectacle only happens around the winter solstice and lasts for about 20 minutes each day at around 4 pm.

When the sun is at its lowest point in the sky, the golden red light creates a marvelous sight through the 17 arches of the bridge.

The bridge, with the rays shining through its arches, together with the pavilions and trees by the water, makes a picturesque scene at the Summer Palace.

Many photography enthusiasts flock to the site early in the day and wait until dusk to capture the precious moment.

It remains undecided whether the ancient wisdom of gardening or just a beautiful coincidence has contributed to such an amazing sight.