China has introduced what officials describe as the world's longest outdoor escalator system, transforming daily travel for residents in a mountainous region of Chongqing. The newly opened Wushan Goddess Escalator stretches across steep terrain, offering a faster and safer alternative to routes that once required long and physically demanding climbs.
The system began operations on Feb. 17 in Wushan County, coinciding with Lunar New Year celebrations marked by lantern displays and traditional dragon dances. Built along Goddess Avenue, the escalator network extends 905 meters (2,969 feet) and rises 242 meters (794 feet), roughly equal to the height of an 80-story building. The journey now takes about 20 minutes, replacing trips that previously lasted up to an hour.
Modern engineering meets mountain terrain
The project consists of 21 escalators, eight elevators, four moving walkways, and several pedestrian bridges. Glass panels surround much of the structure, allowing riders to view the scenic Wu Gorge and parts of the Three Gorges area while traveling.
Engineers designed the system to withstand harsh weather conditions and accommodate heavy daily use. Officials said the infrastructure addresses both safety and accessibility challenges in an area known for steep slopes and limited road access.
For residents in the Gaotong neighborhood, the change is significant. Daily commutes once involved navigating narrow, winding paths and sharp inclines. The new system provides direct connections to essential services, including hospitals, schools and cultural sites, improving both convenience and quality of life.
A city known for unconventional transit
Chongqing, often referred to as China's "Mountain City," is known for its complex landscape of hills, ridges, and cliffs. The city has gained attention for its innovative transportation solutions shaped by this geography. A well-known example includes a monorail line that passes directly through a residential building, while several subway stations are built deep below ground level.
Officials said the Wushan Goddess Escalator has now surpassed the city's Crown Escalator, previously considered the longest of its kind. Beyond its record-setting length, the system serves as a key link between riverside areas and higher-altitude communities, integrating neighborhoods that were once difficult to access.
During an initial trial phase, the fare has been set at 3 yuan, or about 40 cents of a dollar. Authorities are currently reviewing operational data before finalizing long-term pricing.
The project of the world's longest outdoor escalator reflects a broader effort to adapt infrastructure to challenging landscapes. For Wushan residents, the escalator system has turned a once time-consuming journey into a more efficient and comfortable daily routine.