China is adding to the charm and grandeur of Zhangjiajie in Hunan Province with vanishing bridges. These bridges have been designed by French architect Martin Duplantier and use optical illusion to give the vanishing effect. Zhangjiajie is a major tourist spot in the country as it is believed to be the inspiration behind the pillar-like mountains featured in the blockbuster movie Avatar.

Like Us on Facebook

The bridges will use reflective stainless steels and black stone floor, which are conducive to maximizing the 'vanishing' effect. Duplantier's firm said, "Contrasting with a complex landscape, the footbridges are of pure geometric shapes, which seem to have been placed delicately on the carved relief of the site."

One of the proposed bridges will have two levels, while the other bridge will feature an elliptical disk shape. The second bridge will also have an off-center hole, which "leaves open views into the gap between the two rock faces." There will also be a strong net for closer view of the surroundings.

The project includes pavilions in three different levels, which will also be made of reflective material. The top level will offer panoramic view, the middle pavilion will house a café, and the bottom is for visitors' overnight stays.

The project is expected to cost close to $5 million. No time line for the completion has been provided.

Meanwhile, Zhangjiajie earlier hosted the world's longest and tallest glass bridge that measures 1.410 feet long and 94 feet high from the ground. However, it was closed after merely 13 days of its opening. 

TagsZhangjiajie, Hunan, Avatar