Want to experience a glass observation deck? Head to Beijing’s Shilin Gorge where kids get in free—perfect for a family outing.

Summer vacation is here, and parents are probably wondering where to take the kids. Think about the thrill of Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon Glass Bridge or the excitement of the cliffside plank walk on Mount Hua—both are incredibly enticing. Want to experience the thrill of a glass walkway in Zhangjiajie? Not so fast. Beijing’s Shilin Gorge features a titanium-alloy glass observation platform that’s just as thrilling and even more exciting. Kids under 14 get in free, making it the perfect family getaway this summer.

Kids under 14 get free admission for a limited time—Shilin Gorge becomes the top choice for family trips.

Among the many attractions around Beijing, Shilin Gorge is renowned for its dramatic canyon divided into two worlds, adorned with nine waterfalls and eighteen pools. Atop the canyon sits a transparent glass observation platform offering unobstructed views of the rugged beauty below. Resembling a UFO, the platform has become a must-visit photo spot, especially popular among young travelers.

This summer, Shilin Gorge is generously offering free admission to kids under 14. Children with valid ID showing they are under 14 can enter the scenic area for free from July 4, 2019, to August 31, 2019. Isn’t that thoughtful?

Summer is the perfect time to visit Shilin Gorge, where lush greenery and serene vibes make it an ideal summer retreat. The canyon complements the nine waterfalls and eighteen pools, creating a picturesque landscape. The most spectacular sight is the Shilin Grand Waterfall, a majestic four-tiered waterfall with a total drop of over 120 meters—one of the few of its kind in northern China. Its roaring sound echoes through the valley. Shilin Gorge combines the grandeur of northern landscapes with the delicate beauty of the south. With news of free admission during the summer break, it quickly became a top choice for many families.

The observation deck resembles the “Eye of the Universe”—dare to take on the TikTok challenge and become an internet sensation.

Although Shilin Gorge features five major scenic areas—including Giant Rock Formations, Deep and Mysterious Gorges, Crystal Clear Pools, and Cliffside Hanging Pines—as well as numerous entertainment activities like canyon rafting, river rapids, high-altitude flying, spinning coasters, luxury bumper cars, Shark Island battles, laser boats, and carousels, the most popular attraction is the glass observation platform nicknamed the “Eye of the Universe.”

The observation platform is built with aerospace-grade titanium alloy, alloy steel, high-strength cables, and crystal-clear glass. Suspended 32.8 meters above the cliff face, it covers an area of 415 square meters—11 meters longer and more than twice the size of the U.S.’s Grand Canyon Skywalk, known as the “Eighth Wonder of the World.” To date, it’s the largest glass observation platform in the world. The platform’s glass consists of three layers with two interlayers, capable of bearing loads over 700 kg per square meter—strong enough to support a concrete tanker. Even if all three layers of glass were shattered, it would still safely hold people. The innovative use of structural materials has earned Shilin Gorge’s observation platform recognition as one of China’s New Top Ten Wonders of Engineering.

The platform also stands over 400 meters above the canyon floor. Standing on it, with crystal-clear glass beneath your feet and nothing but air around you, is a heart-pounding experience. From here, you can not only admire the majestic beauty of Shilin Gorge but also gaze at the scenic views of Jinhai Lake and Panshan Mountain, or enjoy the city lights of Beijing at night.

Modeled after a UFO and suspended in mid-air, the platform resembles an eagle’s eye and is both grand and spectacular—hence its name, the “Eye of the Universe.” Ascend to the summit of Shilin Gorge’s main peak, and with the “Eye of the Universe,” take in the world below.

The observation platform quickly became a hotspot for social media influencers. Young people flock to this fully transparent, UFO-shaped glass platform, drawn by its reputation for testing courage. Standing on it, you’ll feel the “fear” and thrill firsthand. Looking down at the sheer cliffs, even the faint-hearted will feel their hearts race and their limbs go numb. The platform has become a symbol of bravery on social media—only those who’ve conquered Shilin Gorge’s observation deck can truly boast about their courage.

Shilin Gorge offers much more than what’s mentioned above, including the chance to pick “Pinggu Big Peaches” from the Pinggu District. This summer, come to Pinggu for mountain and water adventures, challenge the “UFO,” and pick some juicy peaches for the ultimate relaxation. Take advantage of the limited-time free admission and gather your family at Shilin Gorge now!