One Of The World's Most Spectacular Bridges Is A Very Dangerous Tourist Attraction In China

China has long been celebrated for its extraordinary engineering achievements, blending innovation and natural beauty to draw visitors from near and far. From the ancient marvel of the Great Wall of China to modern-day spectacles like the Huangtengxia Tianmen Sky Walk, featuring the world's largest circular waterfall, the country's ability to create awe-inspiring structures is unparalleled. These feats not only highlight technical mastery but also serve as major tourist attractions.

Among these wonders is the Shiziguan Floating Bridge, a structure so unique it is often referred to as the "Long Bridge of Dreams" or the Shiziguan Water Highway. Located in Hubei Province, the bridge spans the turquoise waters of the Qingjiang River, connecting two sides of the fertile Enshi Prefecture Mountains. At about 1,640 feet (500 meters) long and approximately 14.7 feet (4.5 meters) wide, this wooden plank bridge was built to harmonize with its environment, creating a seamless union of engineering and nature. Since its opening in 2016, the bridge has accommodated vehicles and pedestrians, allowing up to 1,000 people and about 2.8 tons of traffic at a time.

What sets Shiziguan Floating Bridge apart as one of the top tourist destinations in China is the experience it offers: A gentle sway beneath your feet or wheels as it responds to the river's movements. The bridge relies on water-filled floats to create stability while maintaining buoyancy. Its speed limit of about 12 mph (20 km/h) ensures that travelers feel the serene sensation of gliding across the water, akin to a water skimmer dancing on the surface. This picturesque surroundings — towering green mountains and nearly 200-foot-deep dazzlingly blue waters — make it one of China's most breathtaking tourist destinations. Yet, as with many of the world's scariest bridges, this idyllic experience can be quite dangerous and comes with inherent risks, as tragic accidents have proven.

In 2023, the Shiziguan Floating Bridge showed visitors its dangerous side when a large vehicle crashed through the side railing of the bridge and sunk into the Qingjiang River. Surveillance footage shows the vehicle entering the bridge and causing an intense sway before crashing through the wooden railings. Three of the eight passengers were able to escape, but unfortunately, five people did not survive the accident. The exact cause of the tragedy remains unclear, with speculation about a possible failure to adhere to speed or weight limits. No definitive conclusions have been released.

The tragedy forced the temporary closure of the bridge, with the hope that authorities might review safety measures. Despite its subsequent reopening, it's important to remember the dangers associated with such a unique structure. While the bridge continues to draw large crowds eager to experience its charm, travelers are urged to exercise caution to avoid dangerous complications. The Shiziguan Floating Bridge remains a testament to China's ability to create engineering marvels but also exemplifies the fine balance between human ingenuity and the forces of nature. For those who dare to explore it, a blend of awe and caution is necessary, as there are things you should know before traveling to China.