The Zhongshan Bridge — commonly called the Iron Bridge (铁桥) or First Bridge of the Yellow River — spans the Yellow River in the city center, connecting the south bank to the White Pagoda Hill park on the north. Built in 1907 and the first permanent iron bridge across the river in this region, it is now closed to vehicle traffic and serves as a pedestrian crossing and historic site.
Walking across takes only a few minutes, but the bridge is better enjoyed slowly: the views up and down the Yellow River valley, with its canyon walls of loess and the city stacked along both banks, are among the best in Lanzhou. In the evening the bridge and the hillside behind it are lit up and it becomes a lively gathering spot. Several small cafes and tea stalls line the south bank approach. Free to cross.