Residents of Wushan district in China have long faced difficult living conditions due to the region’s steep terrain. For years, even simple tasks such as going to work, visiting relatives, or buying groceries required navigating sharp slopes and narrow, winding roads resembling snake-like paths, often taking nearly an hour.
How has the new escalator changed daily life?
The situation has now changed dramatically with the opening of the Wushan Goddess Escalator complex. Thanks to this new infrastructure, residents can move in and out of the district far more easily. Reports indicate that it is now considered the longest urban escalator system of its kind in the world.
The escalator officially opened in late February 2026 in the mountainous Wushan district of Chongqing. The ceremony took place in a festive atmosphere decorated with red lanterns and traditional dragon dances associated with the Chinese New Year celebration.
How much time does the project save?
This large infrastructure project has dramatically reduced travel time up the mountain. What once required a tiring one-hour climb has now been transformed into a comfortable 20-minute journey.
As a result, daily life for local residents has become significantly easier, while the area is also expected to become more accessible and attractive for tourists.
What makes the engineering design unique?
One of the most distinctive features of the structure is its design that effectively “embraces the mountain.” Instead of building a straight vertical route up the slope, engineers created a complex system that follows the natural contours of the terrain.
The project combines escalators, elevators, and pedestrian walkways into an integrated transport system that adapts to the natural landscape rather than cutting directly through it.
How large is the escalator system?
Built along the vertical axis of the hillside streets, the system stretches a total of 905 meters and rises 242 meters in elevation. This height is roughly equivalent to an 80-story skyscraper.
The infrastructure was specially designed to withstand Chongqing’s steep terrain, challenging weather conditions, and heavy pedestrian traffic. At the same time, the structure follows the natural curves of the mountain and preserves panoramic views overlooking the scenic Wu Gorge. The entire installation is equipped with transparent glass facades.
Why is Chongqing known for such infrastructure?
Chongqing is often referred to as a “mountain megacity” and is considered one of China’s most geographically complex urban environments. The city is famous for its extremely steep cliffs and hills, which have shaped a unique style of vertical urban development.
Because the city is built across multiple elevations, its infrastructure often operates on several levels rather than on flat terrain, making innovative vertical transportation systems essential.
What record has the new escalator set?
The newly opened escalator complex has set a new benchmark. Reports say it has officially surpassed the famous Crown Escalator, becoming the longest outdoor escalator system in the world.