Yunnan province unveils 288-meter elevator to aid student commutes

A new 288-meter glass elevator, known as the Fuyao elevator, has been installed in the Nizhuhe Grand Canyon in Yunnan province, China, to assist local residents and students. The infrastructure significantly reduces the commute for approximately 20 students traveling from Nizhuhe village to Guanzhai Village Primary School. Previously, students faced a perilous journey of over three hours each way, navigating narrow, steep mountain paths and rock-cut trails that were often exposed to landslides and extreme weather.

The Fuyao elevator travels at a speed of five meters per second, completing its vertical ascent in approximately 50 seconds. It is part of a larger transportation network that includes the 268-meter Qingyun elevator, which has been operational since 2022, and a cable car system. This integrated network has reduced the total travel time from over three hours to roughly 30 minutes.

While the project serves as a vital transport link for the community, it is also tied to regional tourism development. The elevators and cable car are provided free of charge to the residents of Nizhuhe and Guanzhai, with specific access points designated for students. The increased accessibility is expected to boost visitor numbers to the canyon area.