Zhangjiajie / Bailong Elevator

#November Destinations 2025 Bailong Elevator: A Steel Dragon Perched on a Cliff The Bailong Elevator is a vertical sightseeing elevator built into a cliff face within the Wulingyuan Scenic Area of ​​Zhangjiajie. It is hailed as the "world's tallest, highest-capacity, and fastest fully exposed outdoor sightseeing elevator," and has received multiple Guinness World Record certifications. This engineering marvel combines modern technology with natural wonder, becoming a crucial transportation hub for tourists to quickly ascend from the bottom of the Jinbian Stream valley to the summit of Yuanjiajie. Its visually striking design has made it a unique "landmark" of Zhangjiajie. 📍Core Features and Experiences 1. A Symphony of Engineering Wonder and Natural Splendor · "Extreme Data": The elevator has a vertical height difference of 335 meters and an operating height of 326 meters. It consists of three fully transparent glass elevators arranged side-by-side, with a one-way travel time of only approximately 66 seconds. * **"Double Thrill":** While riding, passengers can enjoy a unique, dynamic perspective through the glass, witnessing a "steel dragon bursting through the wall," closely admiring the magnificent panoramic view of the opposite stone peaks, including the "Gathering of Divine Soldiers," providing an immersive experience. 2. **"Irreplaceable" Transportation Hub Function:** * **"Efficient Connection":** It completely solves the vertical transportation problem from "the foot of the mountain" to "the top," shortening the original hours-long climb to just over a minute, greatly optimizing the tour route in the core scenic area of ​​Wulingyuan. * **"Core of the Loop":** It is an indispensable core element of the classic tour loop (such as "Landmark Gate → Water-Surrounded Gates → Bailong Elevator uphill → Yuanjiajie → Tianzi Mountain → Cable Car downhill"). 3. **"Controversy and Reflection":** A Dialogue Between Man and Nature * The Bailong Elevator has been accompanied by discussions about "nature conservation and tourism development" since its inception. It is both a "practical solution" to improve efficiency and reduce ecological pressure, and is also seen as an "intervention" in the aesthetics of the natural mountain landscape. It has become a thought-provoking "symbol of our time," exploring how humanity should "appreciate" and "utilize" natural heritage. Practical Travel Information * **Location:** * **Lower Station:** Near the "Water Surrounding Four Gates" eco-friendly station in Wulingyuan Scenic Area. * **Upstream Station:** Yuanjiajie Scenic Area. The "Enchanting Terrace" station is right outside the elevator, from where you can walk to attractions such as the "Qiankun Pillar" (Hallelujah Mountain). * **Ticketing:** A separate ticket is required and is not included in the main scenic area entrance ticket. The one-way ticket price is approximately RMB 65 (please refer to official announcements for the most accurate price). * **Travel Suggestions:** 1. **Standing Position:** After entering the elevator, quickly stand "near the outer glass" for the best view. 2. **Best Time to View:** The view is most breathtaking the moment the elevator "bursts out of the mountain," offering a sudden and expansive vista. Be prepared with your camera or simply enjoy the experience. 3. **Weather Impact:** Sunny days offer the best visibility; foggy days primarily provide a sense of speed, but external scenery may be obscured. 4. **Route Planning:** Often combined with the Tianzi Mountain Cableway to create a loop tour that avoids going uphill and backtracking. The Bailong Elevator is an adventure that elevates transportation to an ultimate experience. In those brief 66 seconds, riders experience a dramatic transformation from concealment to soaring flight, embracing the cliffs of Zhangjiajie in a near-flying manner. It is not only an engineering marvel but also a vivid example of how humanity can engage in dialogue with nature through modern technology. Riding it is not just about saving time but also about personally participating in and witnessing an ongoing "legend" about nature, tourism, and modernity.