Perched on the edge of a cliff in the stunning Wulingyuan Scenic Area of Zhangjiajie, China, the Bailong Elevator, also known as the Hundred Dragons Elevator, presents an awe-inspiring mixture of human engineering and natural beauty. Officially opened in 2002, this remarkable elevator has been recorded in the Guinness World Records as the world's highest and heaviest outdoor elevator. Spanning a height of 330 meters (1,070 feet) and built directly into the side of a cliff, it offers a vertical transport unlike any other.
Constructed with a blend of glass and steel, the Bailong Elevator consists of three separate glass cars, each offering panoramic views that leave passengers spellbound during the approximately two-minute ride to the top. From the elevator, riders are treated to breathtaking vistas of the rocky pillars, lush forests, and pristine waters that characterize the Wulingyuan area, part of Zhangjiajie National Forest Park. This park itself is famous for inspiring the floating mountains in the blockbuster movie Avatar.
Despite its popularity, the creation of the elevator was met with controversy. Environmentalists and conservationists were concerned about the potential impacts on the UNESCO World Heritage site's landscape and ecosystem. Nonetheless, measures were taken to reduce environmental disruption, making the engineering feat a subject of study and admiration.
Millions of tourists flock to this attraction yearly, drawn by the unique combination of accessibility and natural beauty. The Bailong Elevator not only simplifies the journey to the top of the cliff, making the area's natural wonders accessible to those who might otherwise struggle with the steep terrain, but it also serves as a thrilling highlight of the Wulingyuan experience. This blend of natural splendor and human ingenuity makes the Bailong Elevator a must-visit for those traveling to China’s Hunan province.
