World’s Largest Glass Platform: Shilingxia Glass Sightseeing Platform
If you’re planning a trip to Beijing, it’s almost guaranteed that places like the Forbidden City, Temple of Heaven, Summer Palace, Beihai Park, and the Great Wall are on your itinerary. That’s the norm, right? But for me, after visiting the Great Wall, I had my eyes set on something unique: the Shilingxia Glass Sightseeing Platform.
Why did I choose this? Well, I wanted to experience the thrill of standing on a glass platform, something I had longed to do at Zhangjiajie’s famous glass bridge. However, with just five days in hand, traveling to both the Great Wall and Zhangjiajie wasn’t practical. So, Shilingxia was my perfect compromise—a mix of breathtaking adventure and mesmerizing natural beauty that did not disappoint!
The Unique Beauty of Shilingxia
The main attraction at Shilingxia Resort is the UFO Transparent Glass Sightseeing Platform, an architectural marvel that seems like it’s plucked straight out of a sci-fi movie. Suspended at an incredible height of 400 meters above the ground, this circular platform juts out over the cliffs, offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
The structure itself is awe-inspiring. It stretches 32 meters from the edge of the cliff and spans an area of 4,470 square feet, making it the largest glass sightseeing platform in the world. Standing on transparent glass, with nothing but air between you and the deep valley below, feels exhilarating and surreal. It’s a sensation that combines wonder, awe, and just a touch of fear!
The platform is designed to support up to 2,000 people at once, which speaks to the incredible engineering behind it. But the true magic lies in the experience—standing high above the valley, surrounded by rugged mountains, jagged cliffs, and lush greenery.
Getting to the Platform
While the glass platform is undoubtedly the highlight of the resort, the journey to get there is equally thrilling. To reach the platform, you’ll pass through the Stone Forest, a surreal area filled with towering rock formations and winding trails. It feels like stepping into another world, where nature has carved an otherworldly masterpiece over centuries.
For those who prefer a relaxed ascent, there’s a cable car from the base of the mountain. The cable car ride is a scenic adventure in itself, offering sweeping views of the landscape below. It’s an excellent way to get a bird’s-eye view of the area before reaching the platform. Once you disembark, it’s a 20-minute uphill walk to the platform.
Feeling adventurous? You can skip the cable car and take the hiking trail instead. The hike takes about 2–3 hours, depending on your pace, and it’s a great way to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the region. The trails are steep and winding, but they’re well-maintained, with stairways and rest stops along the way. At every turn, you’ll be rewarded with stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
My Experience to Remember
I had been planning my visit to Shilingxia for a long time. Watching YouTube videos of the glass platform and reading travel blogs had built up my excitement. But when I arrived in Beijing and started asking locals about it, I was in for a surprise—most people had no idea what I was talking about!
Even on the bus to Pinggu, a fellow passenger (using a translator app) told me that the platform was closed. For a moment, my heart sank. But my curiosity and determination kept me going. And I’m so glad I didn’t turn back.
When I finally arrived at Shilingxia Resort, I was stunned by its beauty and tranquility. To my surprise, there were hardly any foreign tourists, and even the locals seemed sparse. It was baffling that such a stunning place remained so underappreciated.
Walking onto the glass platform was a surreal experience. The transparent floor gave me a clear view of the valley below, and for a moment, it felt like I was floating in mid-air. It was thrilling, breathtaking, and just a little terrifying all at once.
The views from the platform were absolutely worth the journey. I could see Diaowo Village nestled among the mountains and the entire Pinggu area stretched out before me like a vast green painting. The surrounding peaks, made entirely of rock, added to the drama of the landscape. It was a moment that made me appreciate the sheer beauty of nature.
Exploring the Pinggu Area
The Shilingxia Glass Sightseeing Platform is just one part of the Pinggu District, which is a treasure trove of natural beauty and cultural heritage. As I traveled through the area, I came across ancient temples, serene lakes, and charming rural villages.
The entire Pinggu area feels like it’s been crafted by nature to captivate travelers. From the rugged beauty of the Stone Forest to the tranquil lakes and winding trails, every corner of Pinggu offers something unique. It’s the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of Beijing and reconnect with nature.
How to Get There
Getting to Shilingxia Resort from Beijing requires some planning, but it’s not difficult. Here’s what you need to do:
- Start at Dongzhimen Bus Terminal in Beijing.
- Take Bus No. 918 or 852 to the Pinggu Bus Terminal.
- From Pinggu, transfer to Bus No. 25, which will take you directly to the resort’s entrance.
The entire journey takes about 3–4 hours, so I recommend starting early in the morning to make the most of your day.
Costs – Here’s a breakdown of the expenses you can expect:
- Resort entry fee: 78 RMB
- One-way cable car ride: 100 RMB
- Glass platform access: 20 RMB
There are also several rides and activities within the resort, each with its own charges.
Timings – The resort is open year-round, with operating hours from 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM.
Food and Facilities – There are plenty of restaurants both inside and outside the resort. I had a simple yet satisfying meal of fried eggs and paratha, which cost me just 30 RMB for two people. If you’re planning to hike, it’s a good idea to carry water and snacks. The resort is well-maintained, with clean facilities and plenty of seating areas for rest.
Tips for Visiting
- Start Early: The journey from Beijing takes time, so leave early to maximize your time at the resort.
- Wear Comfortable Shoes: Whether you’re hiking or exploring the resort, good footwear is essential.
- Carry Essentials: Bring water, snacks, sunscreen, and a camera for the incredible views.
- Respect the Environment: Avoid littering and help keep the area clean.
Why Visit Shilingxia?
If you’re looking for a unique and thrilling experience in Beijing, the Shilingxia Glass Sightseeing Platform is a must-visit. It combines adventure, natural beauty, and architectural ingenuity in a way that few places can.
For me, this trip was more than just an adventure—it was a reminder of why I love to travel. The platform, the Stone Forest, and the surrounding scenery all came together to create an experience that was both exhilarating and deeply fulfilling.
Places to Visit Nearby Shilingxia Glass Sightseeing Platform – The Pinggu District, where Shilingxia Resort is located, is filled with natural beauty, cultural heritage, and exciting activities. If you’re visiting Shilingxia, here are some must-see places nearby that you can add to your itinerary for a fuller experience:
- Jingdong Karst Cave (京东大溶洞)
Located about 25 kilometers from Shilingxia, this karst cave is a natural wonder filled with stalactites, stalagmites, and underground water streams. It’s a fascinating place to explore and offers a cool respite, especially during the summer months. The cave is well-lit, making it a comfortable and family-friendly adventure.
Distance from Shilingxia: ~40 minutes by car
Highlights: Stunning limestone formations, underground rivers, and guided tours
- Pinggu Peach Blossom Valley (平谷桃花海)
If you’re visiting during spring (April to May), don’t miss the Peach Blossom Valley. The entire area bursts into a sea of pink with blooming peach trees, creating a romantic and picturesque landscape. It’s a favorite spot for photographers and nature lovers.
Distance from Shilingxia: ~30 minutes by car
Highlights: Blooming peach orchards, walking trails, and scenic views
- Diaowo Village (雕窝村)
This charming village can be seen from the Shilingxia Glass Platform, but it’s worth exploring up close. Known for its traditional architecture and tranquil atmosphere, Diaowo Village offers a glimpse into rural life in China.
Distance from Shilingxia: ~15 minutes by car
Highlights: Traditional stone houses, local cuisine, and cultural experiences
- Beijing Jingdong Grand Canyon (京东大峡谷)
Another gem in the Pinggu District, the Jingdong Grand Canyon features breathtaking cliffs, serene waterfalls, and crystal-clear rivers. The canyon is a great spot for hiking, boating, and enjoying nature.
Distance from Shilingxia: ~50 minutes by car
Highlights: Hiking trails, boat rides, and suspension bridges
Visiting the Shilingxia Glass Sightseeing Platform was the highlight of my trip to Beijing. From the breathtaking views to the thrill of standing on the glass floor, every moment was unforgettable. The fact that this place is still relatively unknown makes it even more special. You won’t find the usual tourist crowds here, which means you can enjoy the beauty of the place in peace.
