Qingyuan, China, is a popular getaway destination for locals
and tourists seeking a break from the city, especially during major holidays
like the National Day and Mid-Autumn Festival, when most people in China have
about eight days off. My trip started the night before, with a comfortable stay
at a quiet hotel for about 200 RMB (around $30 USD). Given the holidays, I
expected large crowds and busy highways as people flocked to scenic spots.
Preparing for the bustle ahead, I made an early start, with a quick stop at
McDonald’s for breakfast before heading towards one of Qingyuan’s top
attractions: the Huangtangxia Glass Skyway.
The city of Qingyuan is well-known for its outdoor activities, especially drifting, which is a local favorite. This form of rafting, often referred to as "poor man's white-water rafting," involves navigating down fast-flowing rivers in inflatable boats. Vendors lined the streets near the drifting sites, selling swimsuits, hats, and other accessories. However, my goal today wasn’t the drifting; instead, I was here to explore the Huangtangxia Glass Skyway, a relatively new addition to Qingyuan’s growing list of adventure attractions.
The glass skyway is located high up in the hills, offering a
thrilling perspective of the natural surroundings. At 8 a.m., I arrived to find
the place surprisingly quiet for the first day of the national holiday. The
cable cars had just started running, and there were only about ten other people
in the vicinity. The peace and calm were unexpected but welcomed. In China,
especially during peak holiday seasons, it’s rare to find popular tourist spots
so empty.
The ticket to access the skyway cost 148 RMB (approximately
$20 USD), and after a quick health code check at the separate security area, I
began my ascent. There’s a sign at the entrance noting that the hike involves
500 steps and burns about 25 calories—good to know, but not exactly a workout
for anyone who regularly hikes.
As I made my way up, I passed by the drifting river, which
is popular later in the day when crowds start to form. Drifting here typically
involves navigating a winding river through a picturesque canyon. Although I
decided to skip this activity, it’s a major draw for families and groups of
friends looking for a bit of adrenaline.
Reaching the skyway, I was struck by the scale and design of
this glass walkway. Qingyuan is home to several glass bridges and skywalks, but
the Huangtangxia Glass Skyway is particularly striking. Suspended high above
the canyon floor, the skyway offers breathtaking views of the surrounding
mountains and valleys. The glass panels are much larger than those on similar
bridges I’ve visited, which adds to the thrill (and slight unease) of walking
across. The bridge even has a special feature: certain sections emit a
crackling sound as you step on them, mimicking the sound of shattering glass.
It’s meant to scare visitors, and it works—my heart skipped a beat when I first
heard it.
Looking down, I could see the lush greenery stretching out
below me, with the drifting river winding through the canyon like a blue
ribbon. The skyway wasn’t just about the thrill; the panoramic views of
Qingyuan’s rugged landscape were stunning. Despite being the first day of the
holiday, the parking lot was still relatively empty; always go early!
The area is still under development, with new trails and
facilities being constructed. They’re adding a viewing platform and a large LED
light show, which has already become quite popular. At night, the entire skyway
is illuminated, creating a spectacular light display that attracts large
crowds. Below the bridge, there’s also a waterfall feature, though it wasn’t
operational during my visit. When it’s turned on, the water cascades down the
sides in a circle, adding another visual element to the experience.
As I continued along the trail, I appreciated the thoughtful
design of the shaded rest areas, which provided a welcome respite from the sun.
The weather was still mild in the early morning, with a light breeze and
overcast skies keeping the temperature pleasant. The path itself is mostly
concrete steps, typical of Chinese hiking trails, but the surroundings are
undeniably beautiful. The steps are steep in places, making the descent just as
challenging as the climb. It’s a good reminder that hiking downhill requires
just as much care as going up.
After finishing the skywalk, I decided to take a detour down
towards the drifting river to see if any groups had started their adventures
yet. The river is lined with dense vegetation, and the cool water sparkles in
the sunlight. It’s a popular spot for families and groups, especially during
the summer when the weather is warmer.
With the morning adventure complete, I hopped back in the
car and set off for a leisurely drive through the countryside. Qingyuan’s rural
roads are scenic, winding through green hills and past small villages. It was
one of those perfect days for a drive—windows down, music playing, and the air
filled with the scent of fresh foliage. The road was quiet, a rarity during the
holiday season, allowing me to fully enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
Overall, the Huangtangxia Glass Skyway was a fantastic
experience. The key to a great visit, as I discovered, is to arrive early and
beat the crowds. By midday, the parking lot fills up, and the peaceful
experience of the morning is replaced by the buzz of excited tourists.