China has unveiled the world's highest bridge in the southwestern province of Guizhou, a record-breaking structure that dwarfs the Eiffel Tower. The Huajiang Grand Canyon Bridge, with a deck-to-surface height of 625 metres, has slashed travel times across the gorge from two hours to just two minutes, according to regional state media.
The bridge surpasses the previous record-holder, the Beipanjiang Bridge (also in China), by approximately 60 metres. Construction began in January 2022 and was completed in less than four years, creating a structure spanning nearly 3km across a gorge known locally as the 'Earth crack'. The bridge underwent extensive testing, including a dynamic load test with 96 lorries, before being declared safe for vehicles.
The Huajiang Grand Canyon Bridge has secured a Guinness World Record as the tallest bridge on the planet. It officially opened to visitors on September 28, 2025. The bridge features glass walkways offering views of the Beipan River 580 metres below, as well as viewing platforms and a glass lift leading to a café set to open in November. Plans for bungee jumping and professional BASE jumping events have also been announced.
Guizhou province is known for having the world's greatest collection of high-level bridges, with more high bridges than every other country combined. By 2030, it is expected to have over 1,000 bridges exceeding 100 metres in height.
