World's tallest bungy jump launched in China's Hunan province

Straddled between two cliffs in China's Hunan province, a 430-metre glass-bottomed suspension bridge has launched the world's highest bungy jump experience.

Visitors to the Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon Glass Bridge can now take a leap from a height of 260 metres above the UNSECO World Heritage listed Wulingyuan wilderness.

Scheduled to open at the end of last year, the bungy jumping operation was delayed by restrictions imposed because of the Coronavirus pandemic.

Operator Jonni Deaker said business had been building slowly as domestic tourists began to return to the region, telling CGTN “we are probably averaging 20 jumps a day at the moment, which is pretty good for a jump this size”, stating ng he was confident of a solid July-August holiday season.

The pedestrian bridge, designed by Israeli architect Haim Dotan and opened in August 2016, was once the longest glass-bottomed suspension bridge in the world.

It is one of a number of glass bottomed bridge and via ferrata in experiences in China that appeal to a growing market for risk and adrenaline-based attraction.

Explaining the appeal, Deaker believes the height of the experience makes it less intimidating than smaller jumps, adding “because it's so high, it actually makes it easier.

"When you're this high, it's kind of like skydiving."

The Zhangjiajie Gorge area is a popular i tourist attraction, famous for its quartzite sandstone pillars and peaks extending into the clouds, along with deep ravines and gorges.

Images: CGTN Photo.