Ever since Emperor Zhangzong of the Jin Dynasty (reigned 1190-1208) penned the phrase “The Moon over the Lugou (Marco Polo) Bridge at Dawn (Lugouxiaoyue),” this site has been known by this poetic name. Emperor Qianlong, who inscribed it upon a commemorative tablet at the site, hence further spreading its renown, adopted the title once more in the Qing Dynasty. In those days, the scenery comprised only “a pale moon over a river bridge” with a few “scattered clouds” floating occasionally overhead. However, it attracted “so many travelers passing by this spot that by early dawn the air was filled with the clattering of horses hooves.”

At daybreak nowadays, the lamps suspended on the bridge and the stars gleam through the early morning mists, sparkling on the clear waters of the river. A light wind sends silvery ripples running across the water, making the pale reflection of the moon on its surface quiver and dissolve-a scene of truly poetic beauty. But as one strolls along the bridge, stopping to lean over its parapet and gaze into the distance, one will notice the first colors of early morning appear on the horizon. Mountain peaks, treetops and tall buildings are bathed in the rosy glow of the sun.