A man works on building a wooden arch bridge. [Photo/fujian-szwhg.chaoxing.com]

The traditional design and practices for building Chinese wooden arch bridges represent a remarkable system of craftsmanship using timber, traditional woodworking tools, and manual techniques.

This craft, centered around core technologies like "beam-weaving" and mortise and tenon joints, creates highly stable arch structures. Predominantly found in the southeastern coastal provinces of Fujian and Zhejiang, these bridges are constructed under the guidance of a master carpenter, with assistance from other skilled woodworkers.

The knowledge and skills required for building these bridges are passed down orally and through hands-on demonstration, often within families or from masters to apprentices, ensuring the continuity of this intricate craft.

These wooden arch bridges are more than just architectural feats; they serve as vital community hubs where locals gather to share information, engage in entertainment, and participate in worship ceremonies, reinforcing cultural identity and social bonds.

Despite their cultural significance, the tradition of building these bridges has been endangered recently due to rapid urbanization, timber scarcity, and limited construction space. Recognizing the need for preservation, this practice was inscribed in 2009 on the List of Intangible Cultural Heritage in Need of Urgent Safeguarding.