The Zhangjiajie Glass Bridge is one of China's most impressive attractions and one of the highest and longest glass bridges in the world. Spanning the Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon, over 430 metres long and roughly 300 metres above the valley floor, the bridge lets you walk across a fully transparent surface with the canyon visible directly beneath your feet.
It is an intense, visually striking experience, and one that is hard to forget.
Is the Glass Bridge worth visiting?
Yes, especially for those doing a full Zhangjiajie itinerary. The bridge combines modern engineering with breathtaking natural scenery and offers a perspective of the Grand Canyon that no trail or viewpoint can replicate. Even for those with a fear of heights, the experience is controlled and safe.
Where is the Glass Bridge?
The bridge is located within the Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon, in Cili County, a separate area from Zhangjiajie National Forest Park and Tianmen Mountain. The Grand Canyon is around 60 km from central Zhangjiajie, approximately one hour by car. Plan the visit as a standalone block in your itinerary.
How to get to the Glass Bridge
- Bus, departs from Wulingyuan Bus Station every 40 minutes from 7:20 AM, costs ¥12 per person and takes 40 to 50 minutes
- Taxi, faster and more direct, costs between ¥100 and ¥150 (~$14–$21)
- Private transfer or organised tour, the most comfortable option, ideal for combining with other attractions on the same day
Tickets
There are three ticket options:
- Grand Canyon only: ¥60 (~$8), access to the canyon without the glass bridge
- Grand Canyon + Glass Bridge: ¥178 (~$25), the most popular option; there is no standalone bridge-only ticket
- Combo with 5 adventure activities: ¥298 (~$42), includes the bridge plus activities such as zip line, slideway and others
The bridge is limited to 800 people at a time and 8,000 visitors per day, book at least 3 days in advance in normal season and 5 days in peak season. Purchase via Trip.com or the official website to guarantee entry.
How the visit works
Access to the bridge is managed by timed entry slots. Before crossing, all visitors must put on shoe covers to protect the glass, provided at the entrance. Backpacks and professional cameras are not allowed on the bridge; lockers are available to store belongings beforehand.
The crossing is made by walking from one side to the other, with stops for photos along the way.
What to do at the Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon
Beyond the bridge, the canyon has more to offer:
- Sky Strip Trail, a 4 km downhill trail with views of the canyon walls
- Shenquan Lake, a lake at the valley floor, accessible by boat
- Zip line and slideway, optional adventure activities (included in the ¥298 combo)
- Bungee jump, available from the central platform of the bridge, separate ticket at ¥3,000 per person
How long to spend
Allow 40 minutes if you only want to cross the bridge, or 2 to 4 hours to explore the canyon at a relaxed pace, including trails and activities.
Best time to visit
- Early morning, shorter queues and better light for photos
- Weekdays, significantly fewer visitors
- Avoid national holidays (1–7 October and 1 May), the site becomes extremely crowded
Practical tips
- Book tickets in advance, daily capacity is limited
- Bring only your phone and wallet, backpacks are not allowed on the bridge
- Wear comfortable footwear for the canyon trails
- The visit is not recommended for pregnant women, elderly visitors with limited mobility, or those with high blood pressure or epilepsy