New “BRIDGE OF FEAR” In China

Situated in the mist-covered mountains of Zhangjiajie, where enormous sandstone towers reach the heavens like natural skyscrapers, a remarkable human engineering achievement is ready to challenge architectural design and human courage. Appropriately called, the “Bridge of Fear” is poised to become China’s newest emblem of its mastery in building soaring buildings and amazing viewpoints.

Inspired by the highly praised Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon Glass Bridge, which has already captivated adventure seekers as well as those afraid of heights since its remarkable opening in August 2016, this ambitious project follows China now, however, has set more ambitious goals as if one building causing vertigo was insufficient.

Together, the creative brains at Martin Duplantier Architectes and Daqian Landscape have produced this €5 million (about $4.5 million) masterpiece of optical illusion and engineering. Their design allows the boundaries of human awareness to be stretched, so fusing the natural and synthetic elements to inspire wonder and discomfort among visitors.

The mirror effect of this architectural wonder is most amazing; it will make the bridge practically invisible to the unaided eye. Stainless steel that has been precisely machined forms the framework. It will produce a strong optical illusion reflecting the nearby scene. This illusion might be so strong that vertigo could strike even the most courageous guests.

The floor of the bridge, black stone painstakingly polished to create a reflecting surface, will accentuate this otherworldly impression. Traveling along this apparently invisible path, visitors will experience the strange sensation of walking in mid-air, suspended far above the verdant canyons below.

The architects have carefully included a two-level design to meet the needs of people who might find the concept of an invisible bridge overwhelming. For those who want bridges that are visible and would want their feet firmly placed on stable ground, the lower level offers a traditional, non-transparent route.

Still, the “Bridge of Fear” represents more than just a daring engineering achievement on the field. It is expected to become a major draw with cafes where guests may relax and enjoy the breathtaking surroundings. For those looking for a very immersive experience, luxurious homes will give the opportunity to spend the night raised above the clouds.

This amazing project is being created in the great mountains that inspired the fanciful landscape shown in James Cameron’s “Avatar.” It could be a link between the worlds of reality and imagination as well as between actual cliffs. The “Bridge of Fear” is an amazing example of human ingenuity and our relentless search to find the boundaries of what can be accomplished. It calls the brave to travel the horizon and experience the excitement of flying.