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Huangshi City, eastern Hubei Province
a new popular travel landmark in Huangshi, Hubei
Sky City (or City of Sky) is located on the northern shore of Xiandao Lake in Wangying Town, Yangxin County, Huangshi City, Hubei Province. It is a newly developed tourist landmark centered on cloud-top sightseeing and romantic experiences. The core attraction, Sky Mirror, is the world’s largest circular glass-bottom observation platform. In addition, the scenic area features a panoramic lake-view cable car, cliff swings, a mirror maze, and other innovative attractions such as the Heavenly Buddha Hand.
The site is about a two-hour drive from Wuhan, with a cable car providing direct access to the mountaintop. Well-equipped facilities make visiting convenient and comfortable. Combining natural scenery with modern engineering, Sky City is an outstanding destination in Central China that offers both spectacular views and unique experiences.
Sky City is a high-altitude scenic complex built along sheer cliffs, combining natural mountain terrain with modern sky-walking infrastructure. The attraction is designed to maximize the feeling of height and exposure, featuring transparent glass structures suspended above valleys and forests.
The site is often compared to other famous skywalk attractions in China, such as Zhangjiajie Glass Bridge or Chongqing’s cliff walkways. However, Sky City stands out for its less crowded atmosphere, central China location, and immersive mountain environment.
Key Facts at a Glance
Sky City is located in Huangshi City, a historically important industrial and mining city in eastern Hubei Province, approximately halfway between Wuhan and Jiujiang (Jiangxi Province).
How to Get There
To reach Huangshi Sky City, Wuhan is usually your starting point. If you’re traveling by public transport, take a high-speed train from Wuhan to Yangxin Station (approximately 1 hour). Upon arrival, you can transfer to the scenic area’s direct shuttle bus or take a taxi to the resort, which takes about 1.5 hours.
For foreign travelers, joining a tour group is highly recommended for convenience. If you’re traveling with a group, hiring a private car is another excellent choice that offers more flexibility.
1. Sky Mirror Observation Platform
As the star attraction of the scenic area and a Guinness World Record holder, the Sky Mirror Observation Platform is a marvel of modern engineering . Covering a glass area of approximately 1,500 square meters, the platform juts 49.5 meters out from the cliff—more than twice the length of the Grand Canyon’s glass platform in the United States. Made of three layers of glass and two layers of SGP, it is extremely safe and stable. Standing on the glass floor, you’ll feel as if you’re walking on clouds, with 1,002 islands of Xiandao Lake spread out below you like a green tapestry. On clear days, the sky and lake merge into one on the glass surface, creating the "sky mirror" effect that gives the platform its name. It’s a must-visit spot for photography, and many couples come here to take romantic photos and propose.
2. Xiandao Lake Cable Car
The Xiandao Lake Cable Car is the first detachable cable car in Huangshi and the only full-lake viewing cable car in China . Stretching over 1,500 meters with 32 passenger cabins (each capable of holding 8 adults), the cable car takes about 8 minutes for a one-way trip. As you glide above the lake, you’ll enjoy a panoramic view of Xiandao Lake’s thousand islands, with the blue water and green islands forming a stunning landscape. The cable car ride is not only a convenient way to get around the scenic area but also an adventure in itself, offering a unique perspective that can’t be experienced on the ground.
3. Cliff Swing
For adventure seekers, the Cliff Swing is an unmissable thrill. Available in three heights—6 meters (manually pushed, suitable for children), 12 meters (double swing, machine-pushed), and 18 meters (single swing, machine-pushed)—it offers different levels of excitement . When the swing reaches its highest point, you’ll be hundreds of meters above the valley, with the lake and mountains stretching out before you. The sudden drop creates a strong sense of weightlessness, making it a perfect way to release stress. Safety is a top priority here, with strict operation procedures and comprehensive protective measures. Note that riders need to meet age, blood pressure, and weight requirements to participate.
4. Folk Custom Experience Area & Jungle Attractions
To experience local culture, visit the Folk Custom Experience Area, which preserves some ancient buildings from the Ming and Qing dynasties and the 1940s-50s . Here, you can learn about the life of the local Ni family, who settled here to avoid wars centuries ago. You can also watch and even try your hand at traditional crafts. Nearby, the Jungle Flower Sea offers a peaceful retreat with vast fields of colorful flowers and straw sculptures, while the 500-square-meter Mirror Maze provides a fun visual challenge using the principles of light reflection.
Other popular attractions include the Lover’s Bridge (a 78-meter suspension bridge with wooden planks), the Rainbow Slide, and the Jungle Crossing, which lets you navigate through the forest via suspension bridges, net paths, and zip lines. Don’t miss the Bird’s Nest and Giant Buddha’s Hand installations, which are perfect for unique photo ops.
The best time to visit Huangshi Sky City is from March to November, when the weather is pleasant and the lake scenery is at its most vibrant. Spring (March-May) is ideal for flower lovers, as the nearby Jungle Flower Sea is in full bloom with colorful flowers and lifelike straw sculptures. Summer (June-August) is great for cooling off by the lake, with the lake breeze bringing relief from the heat, and it’s also the best time to experience water-related nearby activities. Autumn (September-November) is a favorite among photographers, as the clear sky and golden foliage create a stunning backdrop for capturing the beauty of the thousand-island lake and the glass platform. Winter (December-February) is less crowded, and the misty atmosphere adds a sense of mystery, though some outdoor adventure projects may have limited operations, so it’s advisable to check in advance.
Opening hours: Usually 8:30 AM – 5:30 PM (subject to season)
Ticket Information
The basic ticket includes access to the main scenic area and the core "Sky Mirror" observation platform. Optional activities like cliff swings, jungle crossing, and mirror maze are priced separately based on the project.
The prices are for reference only; real-time prices may vary, so it is recommended to consult official platforms for the most accurate current fares.
1. Language Tips
While some staff members at the scenic area may speak basic English, it’s still a good idea to bring a translation app, such as Google Translate, to help you communicate. You can also write down key phrases in Chinese, such as “Where is the restroom?” or “How much is the ticket?” to make communication easier. Additionally, it’s helpful to have a map of the scenic area in both English and Chinese, which you can get from the visitor center.
2. Accommodation
There are several accommodation options near Huangshi Sky City, ranging from budget guesthouses to luxury resorts. If you want to stay close to the scenic area, you can choose to stay in one of the guesthouses in the nearby villages, which offer comfortable rooms at affordable prices. For a more luxurious experience, you can stay in a resort located at the foot of the mountains, which offers amenities such as swimming pools, spas, and restaurants. It’s recommended to book your accommodation in advance, especially during peak season (July-August and October), as rooms tend to fill up quickly.
3. Food and Drinks
Hubei’s local cuisine, especially Yangxin’s lake-fresh delicacies, is a highlight not to be missed. Must-try dishes include Yangxin Tun Niao Soup (a nourishing soup made with local specialty poultry), Silver Fish Scrambled Eggs (fresh and tender), Fathead Fish Soup (creamy and flavorful), and various fresh fish and shrimp from Xiandao Lake . There are several restaurants and snack bars within the scenic area and nearby villages, where you can savor authentic local flavors. It’s recommended to try lake-fresh dishes, as they showcase the unique taste of Xiandao Lake. Also, bring plenty of water during your visit, especially when exploring the jungle attractions, as drink vendors may be limited in some areas.
4. Safety Tips
Safety is paramount when visiting Huangshi Sky City. Wear comfortable non-slip shoes, as some paths may be steep or slippery, especially after rain. For adventure activities like cliff swings and jungle crossing, strictly follow the staff’s instructions and safety guidelines. In summer, apply sunscreen, wear a hat, and use insect repellent; in winter, dress warmly and be cautious of mist-covered paths. Additionally, keep an eye on the weather forecast, as sudden rain showers can occur near the lake. It’s also advisable to secure your valuables when riding the cable car or participating in outdoor activities.
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