Zhengtong Emperor
The first construction of the bridge dates back to the year 816 AD, during the mid Tang dynasty. According to written accounts, the bridge derives its name from the local prefect Wang Zhongshu, who in a selfless act had sold his precious belt in order to help finance its construction. Since then, it has been reconstructed several times. The current structure of the Precious Belt Bridge is a Ming dynasty era reconstruction of 1446 AD, during the reign of the Zhengtong Emperor.