Longest Bridge in the World: The Danyang–Kunshan Grand Bridge in China holds the world record for being the longest bridge. It stretches an incredible 164.8 kilometres (102.4 miles) across the eastern part of China. The bridge is part of the Beijing–Shanghai High-Speed Railway, one of the busiest rail routes in the world. Built in just 4 years and opened in 2011, this bridge was made to help trains move quickly and safely through lowlands, rivers, and rice fields.
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Where Is the Longest Bridge in the World Located?
This bridge is located in Jiangsu Province, between the cities of Danyang and Kunshan in eastern China. It crosses rivers, lakes, and canals, including parts of Yangcheng Lake, known for its famous hairy crabs. The bridge is used by high-speed trains traveling between Beijing and Shanghai, two of China’s largest cities.
Why Was This Bridge Built?
The Danyang–Kunshan Grand Bridge was built to support high-speed rail travel across difficult terrain. The area has many rivers, lakes, and rice paddies, which flood easily. Building a long elevated bridge helps trains move faster and safer without delays caused by water or uneven land. It also reduces the distance and time between major cities, boosting business and tourism across the region.
How Long Is the Danyang–Kunshan Grand Bridge?
The bridge is 164.8 km (102.4 miles) long, making it nearly twice as long as the next longest bridge. It is made of more than 2,000 support pillars and 450,000 tons of steel. Despite its size, it was completed quickly, with over 10,000 workers working day and night.
Top 5 Longest Bridges in the World
| Rank | Bridge Name | Country | Length (km) |
| 1 | Danyang–Kunshan Grand Bridge | China | 164.8 |
| 2 | Changhua–Kaohsiung Viaduct | Taiwan | 157.3 |
| 3 | Cangde Grand Bridge | China | 115.9 |
| 4 | Tianjin Grand Bridge | China | 113.7 |
| 5 | Weinan Weihe Grand Bridge | China | 79.7 |
Interesting Facts About the Danyang–Kunshan Grand Bridge
It Took Just 4 Years to Build
Construction began in 2006 and finished in 2010, with trains running by 2011. Over 10,000 workers helped build it.
It’s Mostly Over Water and Fields
More than 9 kilometers of the bridge pass directly over Yangcheng Lake, and much of the rest crosses wetlands and farmlands.
It Supports High-Speed Trains
This bridge is part of the Beijing–Shanghai High-Speed Railway, with trains that can go over 300 km/h (186 mph).
It’s a Marvel of Modern Engineering
Built to survive earthquakes, floods, and even typhoons, the bridge is designed to last at least 100 years.
China Dominates the List
China is home to four of the five longest bridges in the world, thanks to its fast growth in infrastructure and high-speed rail systems.
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