[A Journey to Discover the Beauty of Yanta] Yanta District in Xi'an: Green Link for a City of Relaxing Urban Life

There's a cycling path on the Xi'an South Third Ring Road known among local residents as the "Green Link", along which relaxing urban life can be observed. It provides those rushing off to work with a moment of leisure and tranquility. Not to mention it also makes for a more convenient commute.

The western entrance of the Demonstration Section (Yanta Section) for Green Commuting on South Third Ring Road Cycling Path   [Photo by Yu Hangding]

This is the Demonstration Section (Yanta Section) for Green Commuting on the South Third Ring Road Cycling Path, starting from the intersection of South Third Ring Road and Chang'an South Road in the east and ending at the intersection of South Third Ring Road and Xifeng Road. It is a characteristic 5.2-kilometer-long cycling path that combines cycling, running, fitness, and the pleasure of a peaceful landscape.

Viaduct cycling path [Photo by Yu Hangding]

In this section, there are two viaduct cycling paths. The first one, 897 meters in length, stretches across Dongyi Road and Dongling Road and the second one, 454 meters in length, is built over Dianzinan Street. There are also plenty of parking lots, restrooms, service booths, chairs, and other facilities set up along the section. The section ties together residential and business areas and urban parks.

"I've rode all the way from Xifeng Road by bike, from the west to the east, and the riding is quite relaxing. There are no motor vehicles on the cycling path so it is safe. Sometimes, the path is also where I go for a run. The environment and facilities are good with abundant plants growing by the wayside. I love the cycling path," said Ms. Wang, a resident of Xi'an, unstinting in her praise.

The cycling path is separated from the highway by a greenbelt [Photo by Yu Hangding]

The cycling paths are paved with colored pervious concrete. It is a special type of concrete with drainage and permeability that provides a better experience for residents walking on it. It also helps relieve the burden on the drainage systems during the rainy seasons.

The cycling path   [Photo by Wang Xumeng]

In addition, the changing colors and lights in the section create a charming and dynamic landscape and add aesthetic value to local residents.