[citation needed] Crossing-the-bridge noodles has over a century of history and has been listed as an intangible cultural heritage of Kunming since 2008.

The soup ingredients are served on a cutting board or plate and include raw vegetables and lightly cooked meats.

Once added into the broth, the ingredients cook quickly, with a layer of melted chicken fat and oil on top.

[citation needed] One story that has gained traction[4] begins with a scholar who was studying hard for his imperial exams on a small island.

His wife, who would bring him food, found that by the time she had crossed the bridge to the island, the soup would be cold and the noodles were soggy.

[citation needed] The development of crossing-the-bridge noodles has changed people's eating habits over the years, especially breakfasts.

[citation needed] There are a few franchised restaurants which serve more intricate or elaborate crossing-the-bridge noodle dishes.

The amount of oil, chili, vinegar, and soy sauce one puts in the bowl varies according to personal taste.