Bailong Elevator

Bailong Elevator in Zhangjiajie, a globally recognized engineering marvel, stands as one of the world’s tallest outdoor elevators and a symbol of human ingenuity harmonizing with nature. Built in 2002 and officially opened in 2005, the elevator ascends 335 meters up the cliff face of Shiliangfeng in Wulingyuan scenic area, offering breathtaking views of the Zhangjiajie sandstone pillars, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Renowned for its speed (3 meters per second) and capacity (50 passengers per cabin), it has been featured in Guinness World Records and films like Avatar, attracting over 18 million visitors since its launch. Designated a "National 4A-Level Tourist Attraction," it provides unparalleled access to the park’s dramatic landscapes while minimizing ecological disruption through its vertical design.

Historical Overview
The elevator’s development marked a milestone in sustainable tourism and engineering innovation:
●2002: Construction began after 3 years of planning, addressing challenges like cliff stability and environmental impact.
●2005: Officially opened to the public, reducing the hiking time from 2 hours to just 72 seconds.
●2015: Underwent a major safety upgrade, enhancing its earthquake-resistant structure and emergency systems.
●2020: Featured in the documentary Engineering the Impossible, showcasing its design and cultural significance.
●2023: Partnered with National Geographic for a virtual reality experience, allowing global audiences to "ride" the elevator digitally.

Structural Layout
The elevator’s design integrates cutting-edge technology with minimal environmental footprint:
CliffIntegration:The elevator is embedded 196 meters into the cliff, with 139 meters visible above ground.
CabinDesign:Two transparent glass cabins, each weighing 20 tons, offer 360-degree views of the surrounding peaks and valleys.
SupportSystem:The structure is anchored by 16 high-strength steel cables, capable of withstanding 7-magnitude earthquakes and 8-level typhoons.

Major Attractions
●ObservationDeck:At the top, a 500-square-meter platform provides panoramic views of the "Avatar Hallelujah Mountain" inspiration and the Yuanjiajie "Skywalk."
●CliffFaceGallery:A 100-meter-long walkway along the elevator’s exterior showcases geological formations and local flora.
●InteractiveExhibit:A digital screen inside the cabin displays real-time data on altitude, speed, and historical facts about the area.

Suggested Itineraries
Quick Visit(30Minutes)
●Ride the elevator up → Explore the observation deck (15 mins) → Capture photos of the surrounding peaks → Return via the elevator.
Highlights:Iconic views and a taste of Zhangjiajie’s grandeur.
Half-DayExploration(2–3Hours)
●Ride the elevator up → Hike the Yuanjiajie "Golden Whip Stream" trail (1 hour) → Visit the "Avatar" filming locations → Return via the elevator or a scenic hiking path.
Highlights:Combining the elevator’s thrill with a moderate hike through lush forests.
Full-DayAdventure(6–8Hours)
●Morning:Ride the elevator up → Explore Yuanjiajie’s major attractions (e.g., "First Bridge Under Heaven," "Mihun Stage") → Lunch at a local restaurant.
●Afternoon:Hike the Yangjiajie "Tianbo Mountain" trail (2–3 hours) → Visit the Tianzi Mountain cable car station → Return to the elevator base.
●Evening:Attend a cultural performance at the park’s theater (if scheduled).
Highlights:A comprehensive experience of Zhangjiajie’s natural and cultural wonders.

Ticket Purchase
●Online:Book via the official Zhangjiajie National Forest Park website or authorized travel platforms (e.g., Ctrip, Fliggy) up to 7 days in advance.
●On-Site:Purchase tickets at the elevator base or park entrances (queues may be long during peak seasons).
●Prices:SingleRide:¥75 (adults), ¥45 (children under 1.3m and seniors over 60).
RoundTrip:¥144 (adults), ¥86 (children/seniors).
ComboTickets:Include access to other park attractions (e.g., Tianzi Mountain cable car, Yangjiajie eco-trail).
●FreeAdmission:Disabled visitors and children under 1.2m (accompanied by an adult).

Transportation
●ByShuttleBus:Free buses run from the Zhangjiajie National Forest Park entrance to the elevator base (10-minute ride).
●ByTaxi:Direct rides from Zhangjiajie city center take approximately 40 minutes (¥80–100).
●ByPrivateCar:Parking is available near the elevator base (¥20/day during peak seasons).
●ByTourGroup:Many guided tours include round-trip transportation from major hotels in Zhangjiajie.

Best Time & Tips
●AvoidCrowds:PeakHours:9 AM–11 AM and 2 PM–4 PM (weekends/holidays).
BestTimes:Early morning (8 AM opening) or late afternoon (after 4 PM) on weekdays.
●QuietestDays:Tuesdays–Thursdays (Mondays may be busier due to weekend backlog).
●Weather:Clear days offer the best visibility, but the elevator operates in light rain (heavy storms may cause temporary closures).
●Essentials:WearComfortableShoes:The area around the elevator involves some walking on uneven terrain.
BringWaterandSnacks:Food options near the elevator are limited, and re-entry to the park may require additional tickets.
UseSunProtection:Sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses are recommended for the observation deck.
Photography:Bring a polarizing filter to reduce glare on the glass cabins; tripods are allowed but may be cumbersome.
ProhibitedItems:Drones, large backpacks, and selfie sticks are not permitted near the elevator for safety reasons.

Other Attractions

Tianmen Mountain

Grand Canyon Glass Bridge

Baofeng Lake