Bridges are some of the most impressive engineering achievements of the modern world. They connect cities, cross rivers, seas, and valleys, and help millions of people travel every day. Some bridges are so long that crossing them feels like a journey itself. In this article, we will explore the top 10 longest bridges in the world, focusing on their size, location, and importance. These bridges are not just structures of steel and concrete; they are symbols of innovation, planning, and human progress.
Why the World’s Longest Bridges Matter
The longest bridges in the world are built to solve major transportation challenges. Many of them cross wide rivers, lakes, or coastal areas where ferries or short bridges are not practical. These bridges save time, reduce travel costs, and support trade and economic growth. They also show how modern engineering can overcome natural barriers.
Most of the longest bridges are found in countries with large populations and busy transport networks. China, in particular, leads the world in building extremely long bridges. Each bridge on this list serves a unique purpose and plays a key role in its region.
Top 10 Longest Bridges in the World
Below is a detailed look at the top 10 longest bridges in the world, ranked by total length.
Danyang–Kunshan and Grand Bridge (China)
The Danyang–Kunshan Grand Bridge is the longest bridge on Earth. It stretches for about 164.8 kilometers and is part of the Beijing-Speed Railway. This bridge crosses rice fields, rivers , canals, and lakes in eastern China.
Built to support high-speed trains, the bridge allows smooth and fast travel between major cities. It took around four years to complete and involved thousands of workers. Thiss bridge clearly tops the list of the longest bridges of world due to its unmatched length.
Changhua–Kaohsiung Viaduct (Taiwan)
The Changhua–Kaohsiung Viaduct is around 157 kilometers long and runs along Taiwan’s west coast. It was designed mainly for high-speed rail and to withstand earthquakes, which are common in the region.
The bridge helps protect farmland by allowing trains to pass overhead without disturbing agricultural land. Its smart design and safety features make it one of the most important longest bridges in the world used for rail transport.
Tianjin Grand Bridge (China)
The Tianjin Grand Bridge measures about 113.7 kilometers and Qingxian in China. It is also part of the Beijing–Shanghai High-Speed Railway.
This bridge was built over flat land and flood-prone areas, making it safer than building tracks directly on the ground. Its length and role in China’s rail system earn it a place among the top 10 longest bridges in the world.
Cangde Grand Bridge (China)
The Cangde Grand Bridge is approximately 105.9 kilometers long. It crosses rivers, and farmland in China’s Hebei Province.
Like many other long bridges in China, it was built to improve rail efficiency and reduce environmental impact. This bridge supports fast train travel and reduces travel time between key regions, adding to the list of notable longest bridges of world.
Weinan Weihe Grand Bridge (China)
With a length of about 79.7 kilometers, the Weinan Weihe Grand Bridge crosses the Wei River multiple times. It held the record for the longest bridge in the world before being surpassed by new projects.
The bridge is part of a major railway line and plays an important role in connecting central China. Its massive scale shows how bridge engineering has evolved.
Bang Na Expressway (Thailand)
The Bang Na Expressway is around 55 kilometers long and is one of the longest road bridges in the world. It runs through Bangkok and helps reduce traffic congestion in the city.
This bridge is elevated and has multiple lanes, allowing vehicles to move smoothly over busy urban areas. It is a strong example of how the longest bridges in the world are not only built for trains but also for road transport.
Beijing Grand Bridge (China)
The Beijing Grand Bridge is about 48.2 kilometers long and serves as apart of China’s high-speed rail network. It connects Beijing with nearby regions and supports daily commuters and long-distance trains.
Its construction helped improve transport efficiency in one of the busiest areas of the country. This bridge continues China’s dominance in the list of the top 10 longest bridges in the world.
Lake Pontchartrain Causeway (USA)
The Lake Pontchartrain Causeway in Louisiana is one of the longest bridges over water. It stretches about 38.4 kilometers across Lake Pontchartrain.
This bridge consists of two parallel spans and connects the cities of Metairie and Mandeville. It is an important transport route and a major tourist attraction, making it one of the most famous and longest bridges of world outside Asia for Travel.
Manchac Swamp Bridge (USA)
The Manchac Swamp Bridge is around 36.7 kilometers long and is located in Louisiana, USA. It crosses a large swamp area and supports Interstate 55 traffic.
Built on concrete pilings, the bridge allows water and wildlife to move underneath freely underneath. Its design focuses on safety and environmental protection, adding unique value to the list of longest bridges in the world.
Qingdao Haiwan Bridge (China)
The QingdaoHaiwan Bridge is about 42.5 kilometers long and crosses Jiaozhou Bay in China. It connects Qingdao with Huangdao and reduces travel time significantly.
This sea bridge is known for its durability and resistance to harsh weather conditions. It is one of the most impressive marine bridges and completes the list of the top 10 longest bridges in the world.
Conclusion
The top 10 longest bridges in the world highlight how far engineering and technology have advanced. These bridges are not just long; they are essential for transportation, economic growth, and regional development. From China’s vast railway bridges to the iconic causeways of the United States, each structure serves a vital purpose.
As cities grow and travel demands increase, we can expect even longer and more advanced bridges in the future. These remarkable structures will continue to connect people, places, and possibilities across the globe.
