Gulongxia Grand Canyon Glass Bridge in Qingyuan
The Gulongxia Grand Canyon Glass Bridge古龙峡玻璃大峡谷 is situated within the renowned Gulongxia Scenic Area in Qingyuan. This forested area in Qingxin District is a national sports tourism demonstration base and a national AAAA-level tourist attraction, located 73 kilometers from Guangzhou. The Gulong Grand Canyon, with a height difference of nearly a kilometer, features waterfalls, deep pools, strange rocks, and lush forests. The Wan Zhang Ya Waterfall within the canyon boasts a vertical drop of 131 meters.
Introduction to the Glass Canyon
The Yuntian Boba (云天玻霸) is the world’s first glass observation combination, featuring six unique glass attractions: a suspended glass platform, glass corridor, glass walkway, glass suspension bridge, glass sky mirror, and glass live broadcast room, all suspended 530 meters above the canyon. The total length of these glass installations is 1,300 meters, covering an area of 12,000 square meters, showcasing a grand and harmonious structure.
The name “Yuntian Boba” was selected through a global naming campaign and has received trademark registration from the National Intellectual Property Office. It holds multiple world records, including the longest high-altitude glass viewing route and the largest area for high-altitude glass attractions, establishing itself as the new leader in sky tourism.
Key Features of the Glass Canyon
- Glass Platform: The glass platform measures 302 meters in length with a 72-meter cantilever, recognized as the longest suspended glass platform in the world. It is shaped like a giant UFO and sits atop the waterfall, directly adjacent to its massive water curtain. A notable feature is the 18-meter diameter glass viewing disc at the platform’s top.
- Glass Suspension Bridge: This bridge stretches 329 meters in length, with an average width of 3.8 meters and a maximum width of 6.8 meters, making it the widest glass bridge for viewing waterfalls. It features two transparent observation bays equipped with 5D sound and light effects that create illusions like “landslides” and “shattering glass” as visitors pass by.
- Glass Walkway: Suspended over sheer cliffs with blue skies above, this 400-meter glass walkway allows for stunning views of the Gulongxia waterfall without the need to climb mountains.
- Glass Corridor: This elevated corridor connects the UFO-shaped platform to the sky mirror, providing an exciting aerial experience.
- Sky Mirror: This newly designed 200-square-meter high-reflective glass surface has quickly gained popularity.
- Suspended Live Broadcast Room: Positioned at the highest point of Yuntian Boba, this outdoor glass live broadcast space hangs 16 meters over the waterfall at an elevation of 530 meters, making it the highest of its kind in the world, certified in June 2020.
The design of the live broadcast space resembles a lotus flower with three petals, symbolizing harmony between heaven, earth, and humanity. During live broadcasts, the central petal serves as the broadcasting area, while the two side petals are designated for product displays.
The entire Yuntian Boba is constructed with ultra-white laminated glass, boasting a thickness of 6.0 centimeters, offering a light transmittance of 99.15%, ensuring clarity and high light refraction. A 26.8-meter-tall giant gorilla sculpture stands behind the glass platform, affectionately dubbed the “King Kong” by visitors, embodying the spirit of the Gulongxia forest.
How to Get There (Transportation)
To reach the Gulongxia Grand Canyon from Guangzhou, you can take a bus or drive. Public buses operate frequently from Guangzhou to Qingyuan, and from Qingyuan, local transportation options are available to reach the scenic area. If driving, the scenic area is well-marked, and parking facilities are available on-site. The trip typically takes around 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic.
Travel Tips
- Best Time to Visit: Consider visiting during weekdays or off-peak seasons to avoid crowds.
- Respect Local Customs: Follow guidelines regarding behavior in the park and around the attractions.
- Stay Hydrated: Bring water, especially if you plan to walk or hike extensively.
- Dress Comfortably: Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking and be prepared for varying weather conditions.
- Photography: Capture the stunning views, but remember to ask permission before photographing individuals.
- Enjoy Local Cuisine: Explore nearby eateries for local food options after your visit.
Gulongxia Glass Platform(古龙峡玻璃大峡谷)
Qingyuan, Guangdong, China
(197) feet high / (60) meters high
236 foot span / 72 meter span
2018
