Most Beautiful Bridges to Photograph in Asia

Asia is the site where some of the best sites in the world are found, from built engineering to a cultural legacy.

Among them, the bridges occupy a special place, not only for function but also as a subject of photography; from old stone crosses to futuristic suspension bridges, Asia offers much for the travel photographer and architect enthusiast.

Here is a list of the best destinations for photographing the most beautiful bridges in Asia, which you must visit to take your travel photography portfolio to the next level.

1. Golden Bridge (Ba Na Hills, Vietnam)

One of the most photographed bridges in recent years, the Vietnam Golden Bridge has become an Internet phenomenon. Accessible only by foot from the mountains of Da Nang, this pedestrian bridge appears held aloft by two giant stone hands rising from the mountainside. 

• Photography Advice: The early morning mist brings out most of the surreal, dreamlike qualities. Use a wide-angle lens to capture both bridge and hands in stunning perspective.
• Visit Because It: A modern icon within Vietnam, encapsulating natural beauty alongside architecture.

2. Akashi Kaikyō Bridge (Japan)

The Pearl Bridge, as it is affectionately called, is a world-longest suspension bridge stretching a 3,911 meter span of land between selfish Kobe and Awaji Island. By day this view dominates by engineering standards but at night it excels with a vibrantly illuminating LED lighting system.

• Photography Tip: Shoot twilight shots here in Maiko Park to behold the beautiful reflections of the illuminated bridge against water.
• Reason to visit: An incredible feat showcasing Japan's engineering prowess that magically transforms from an architectural wonder at daytime to a breathtaking subject for night photographers.

3. Khaju Bridge (Isfahan, Iran)

Constructed in the 17th century during the reign of Shah Abbas II, Khaju Bridge acts as both a bridge and a dam. One of the most romantic landmarks in Iran because of its 23 arches, it is built in traditional Persian architectural style.

• Photography Tip: For reflected hungs of golden rays throw down as the day sets on the arches gracing the Zayanderud down below, get the locals gathering in poetry recitals into your pictures for added cultural stories.
• Reason to visit: This is the jewel of history where everything about architecture, water, and culture comes so beautifully together.

4. Howrah Bridge (Kolkata, India)

Its construction has placed the Howrah bridge as a historical icon, connecting the Hooghly River at the most important point and an architectural wonder in itself as it is called the steel cantilever bridge and a symbol of Kolkata. It is one of the marvels engineered and built during its time without using a single nut or bolt.

• Photography Tip: Early morning shots from the riverbank capture fishermen with a backdrop of the bridge, creating a perfect combination of human life and grand architecture.
• For what reason: It is not just a bridge - it is the very pulse of the city, Kolkata.

5. Bosphorus Bridge (Istanbul, Turkey)

This bridge is called the 15 July Martyrs Bridge. The bridge connects two continents, namely, Asia and Europe, over the Bosphorus Strait. It has sweeping views, and thus, it is popular among landscape photographers.

• Photography Tip: The best time for photography is during the night, as the bridge is lit in moving colors, providing endless opportunity for a photographer to try out long exposure shots.
• For What: Only a few bridges in this world connect two continents, so from a travel photographer's viewpoint, there's no better subject.

6. U Bein Bridge (Myanmar)

Constructed in the nineteenth century, U Bein Bridge in Mandalay is the world's oldest and longest teakwood bridge. Constructed across Taungthaman Lake, it is famous for its tranquil sunsets.

• Photography Tip: Silhouettes of monks and locals walking across the bridge at sunset create some of the most iconic shots of Myanmar.
• Why Visit: Its blend of rustic charm with cultural vivacity makes it an irresistible must for photographers chasing authenticity.

7. Dragon Bridge (Da Nang, Vietnam)

As its very name suggests, the bridge resembles a dragon winding across the Han River. But on weekends, it even breathes fire and water, making this spectacle even more spectacular.

• Photography Tip: Long exposure at night to highlight vibrant lights and flaming performances at the bridge.
• Why Visit: It is one of those rare combinations of tradition and modern creativity in the design of bridges.

8. Nanjing Yangtze River Bridge (China)

The double-deck crossing represents road and rail and symbolizes this milestone in Chinese industrialization. Of its historic interest and sheer size, the Nanjing Yangtze River Bridge is enjoyed even more. 

• Photography Tip: Use drone shots (if permitted) for bird's eye views of the colossal passage over the Yangtze. 
• Why Visit: A mark of mid-twentieth-century engineering, and a national landmark. 

9. Chengyang Wind and Rain Bridge (China)

This bridge is an architectural wonder of the Dong minority situated in Guangxi Province. Constructed without the use of a single nail, it combines covered walkways, pavilions, and towers to produce a bridge that looks like it's come straight from a fairy tale. 

• Photography Tip: Capture locals in traditional dress crossing the bridge to accentuate the blend of cultural heritage and architectural beauty.
• Why Visit: It speaks of solidarity among men, tradition, and nature.

10. Sheikh Zayed Bridge (Abu Dhabi, UAE)

A late work of Zaha Hadid, the Sheikh Zayed Bridge is a wave-like structure reminiscent of the desert's sand dunes. Beautifully illuminated, it stands proud among the most photogenic destinations in the UAE.

• Photography Tips: Experiment with long exposures during the night to capture the glowing curves of the bridge against the equally luminous skyline of Abu Dhabi.
• The Attraction: The bridge embraces a forward-thinking design yet also integrates cultural symbolism. 

Final Thoughts

 In Asia, bridges do more than connect two points; they serve as gateways to culture, engineering prowess, and nature. From the ageless grace of U Bein Bridge in Myanmar to the futuristic lines of Sheikh Zayed Bridge in Abu Dhabi, the list goes on. Each site offers myriad unique stories for photographers to frame and narrate. For travel photographers, the picturesque bridges of Asia are not just a visual wonder; they are living memories to be framed and captured.