Bailong Elevator: The World's Fastest Outdoor Elevator
The Bailong Elevator in Yuanjiajie
Nestled within the Wulingyuan Scenic Area, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Zhangjiajie, stands the awe-inspiring Bailong Elevator. This engineering marvel is acclaimed as the "world's tallest, fastest, and largest-capacity outdoor elevator," earning it a well-deserved place in the Guinness World Records. In 2013, the Bailong Elevator joined the ranks of the world's 11 most creative elevators, alongside Germany's AquaDom elevator and the United States' Gateway Arch trams, solidifying its position as a global icon.
Resolving the Transportation Bottleneck
The Bailong Elevator stands as a testament to human ingenuity, conquering a vertical height of 335 meters with an impressive running height of 326 meters. Its colossal structure comprises a 154-meter internal shaft carved into the mountain and a 172-meter steel frame attached to the cliff face. Three double-decker, fully exposed sightseeing cabins operate in parallel, each accommodating 50 passengers. With a speed of 3 meters per second, the three cabins can transport up to 4,000 people per hour. In 2013, the Bailong Elevator underwent an expansion and upgrade, boosting its hourly capacity by 400 people and increasing its speed to an exhilarating 5 meters per second.
The construction of the Bailong Elevator has revolutionized tourism in the area, making the "stay at the foot of the mountain, tour the mountaintop" concept a reality. It has significantly improved accessibility to iconic attractions such as the First Bridge under Heaven, Lost Souls Platform, Heavenly White Silk Waterfall, Wu Long Village, and Yangjiajie, propelling them into the spotlight. Moreover, it seamlessly connects prime tourist routes, including Tianzi Mountain, Yuanjiajie, and the Golden Whip Stream, effectively addressing the persistent issue of transportation bottlenecks that had plagued the scenic area for years.
Prior to the elevator's existence, the journey to Yuanjiajie involved a strenuous three-hour hike along treacherous mountain paths. The alternative route, a winding mountain road from the Water Surrounds Four Gates scenic spot, spanned 170 kilometers and took over five hours to navigate.
An Engineering Marvel: 1 Minute 59 Seconds to Ascend
On April 8, 2005, the third cabin of the Bailong Elevator was officially commissioned, marking a significant milestone in Zhangjiajie's tourism industry. This addition created the first queue-free passage for visitors during peak seasons, ensuring a smoother and more enjoyable experience.
The Bailong Elevator has become an integral part of the Zhangjiajie experience. Tourists are whisked from the Golden Whip Stream to the breathtaking landscapes of Yuanjiajie, often referred to as Zhangjiajie's "back garden," in a mere 1 minute and 58 seconds.
A History Forged in Innovation
The genesis of the Bailong Elevator can be traced back to the directives issued by the Ministry of Construction and the Hunan Provincial Department of Construction. Following meticulous planning and numerous consultations with national and provincial experts, the project was meticulously designed based on the 1993 "Wulingyuan Scenic Area Master Plan" approved by the State Council.
Today, the Bailong Elevator proudly holds three Guinness World Records:
| Record | Description | |------------------------------------------|-----------------------------------------------------------| | World's Tallest Full-Exposure Outdoor Elevator | Reaching an impressive height, fully exposed to the elements | | World's Tallest Double-Decker Elevator | Featuring two levels for passenger transport | | World's Largest Capacity and Fastest Tourist Elevator | Boasting an unmatched carrying capacity and swift speed |
This marvel of engineering embodies the seamless fusion of natural splendor and human ingenuity. Its impact extends beyond its functional purpose; it has transformed once-inaccessible areas into sought-after destinations, ushering in an era of enhanced tourism and connectivity within the Wulingyuan Scenic Area.
FAQs
Q1: How much does it cost to ride the Bailong Elevator?
A: The cost of a one-way ticket is 72 RMB.
Q2: What are the operating hours of the Bailong Elevator?
A: The elevator operates from 7:00 am to 5:30 pm daily.
Q3: Are there any discounts available for children or seniors?
A: Yes, children under 1.2 meters tall can ride for free when accompanied by an adult. Seniors over 70 years old are eligible for discounted tickets.