In a landmark engineering achievement, the Huajiang Grand Canyon Bridge in Guizhou Province officially opened to traffic over the weekend, setting a new world record as the tallest bridge on the planet. Towering 625 metres (2,050 feet) above the Beipan River, the bridge surpasses the previous record-holder, the Duge Bridge, located upstream.
Spanning 2,890 metres (1.8 miles) with a main span of 1,420 metres, the suspension bridge stands as the longest structure in a mountainous region. Supported by two towers rising 262 metres high, the bridge’s deck offers breathtaking views of the canyon below. Construction began in January 2022 and was completed after nearly four years of work at a cost of approximately 2.1 billion RMB (around USD 300 million).
Before its construction, crossing the deep Huajiang Canyon took up to two hours due to the challenging terrain. The bridge now reduces this travel time to just two minutes, transforming connectivity between the Liuzhi and Anlong districts. Officials anticipate that the project will significantly enhance regional trade, mobility, and economic growth.
Beyond its functional role, the Huajiang Grand Canyon Bridge is designed to attract tourism. A café located 800 metres above the river offers panoramic views accessible via a 207-metre elevator. Adventure seekers can also enjoy attractions such as bungee jumping and a glass walkway suspended above the canyon floor, making it a prominent destination for thrill-seekers and travellers alike.
The project represents a milestone in China’s infrastructure development, particularly in challenging terrains. Guizhou Province, renowned for its mountainous landscapes, has become a centre for high-altitude bridge engineering, with the Huajiang Grand Canyon Bridge standing as a symbol of innovation and capability.
Officials believe the bridge will not only improve transportation efficiency but also establish a global landmark blending engineering excellence with tourism, setting a new standard for large-scale infrastructure projects.
