The 2023 Spring Festival Gala presented by China Media Group showcased a stunning dance program named "Stepping Stones," which gave viewersa taste of the unique style of the water towns of southern China.

Dingbu stone bridges have been built with dams since ancient times. In the dry season, the bridge can help residents cross the river, while in the wet season, it provides water storage and irrigation.

Quzhou in East China's Zhejiang province is also home to a number of Dingbu stone bridges. Here are a few of the notable ones.

Lianhua Dam

People cross the river on Dingbu stone bridge of Lianhua Dam in Qujiang district, Quzhou, East China's Zhejiang province. [Photo/WeChat account: quzhoufb]

Lianhua Dam is 95 meters long and integrates flood control, irrigation, and ornamental functions. From above, it looks like a lotus flower in full bloom.

An aerial view of Lianhua Dam in Qujiang district, Quzhou, East China's Zhejiang province. [Photo/WeChat account: quzhoufb]

Zhuangyuan Dam

A view of the Dingbu stone bridge of Zhuangyuan Dam in Longyou county, Quzhou, East China's Zhejiang province. [Photo/WeChat account: quzhoufb]

Zhuangyuan Dam is a tourist attraction in Lingshan Port, Longyou county, spanning 130 meters.

Along with ecological wetlands like Talang Beach and Bama Beach upstream and downstream, it has become a popular destination for joggers, bikers, and outdoor campers.

Bajia Dam

A view of Bajia Dam in Kaihua county, Quzhou, East China's Zhejiang province. [Photo/WeChat account: quzhoufb]

Bajia Dam in Kaihua county is an ancient dam first built in the Yuan Dynasty (1271-1368). A Dingbu stone bridge was set up when the dam was built.

After several renovations, the dam still retains the complete Dingbu stone bridge, which irrigates farmlands and tourism, becoming a popular summer destination.