The Shiziguan Floating Bridge, also known as the Bridge of Dreams, is an innovative 400-meter bridge that allows cars up to 2.8 tonnes to drive across the surface of the Qingjiang River in China.

Nestled between the forest-covered mountains of Enshi Prefecture, in Hubei Province, the Shiziguan scenic spot is one of China’s most breathtaking natural attractions. However, what really separates it from other impressive sights is the experience of taking in the beautiful scenery while driving along a bridge made of floats and placed directly on the water. Built using German technology to prevent rollovers, the Shiziguan Floating Bridge has been operational since 2016 for both vehicular and pedestrian traffic. The bridge is made from high-density polyethylene floats filled with water for extra stability, so if the drivers respect the imposed speed limit of 20 km/h, they should only feel the gentle sway of the river beneath.

Ever since it opened more than eight years ago, the Shiziguan Floating Bridge has been one of the main draws of the Shiziguan scenic spot, with people all over China traveling here to experience driving on water while taking in the natural scenery. However, even though the bridge is only wide enough for one-way traffic, accidents can still occur.

In 2023, a multi-purpose vehicle carrying eight passengers crashed through the railing and plunged into the deep waters of the Qingjiang River. Five people lost their lives that day, while three managed to get out of the car and swim to shore. The circumstances of the accident were unclear, but a surveillance camera caught the vehicle driving onto the floating bridge and causing serious swaying, before crashing through the railing.

The Shiziguan Floating Bridge was temporarily closed following last year’s tragic incident, but it has since reopened and is still as popular as ever. However, last year’s events now serve as a reminder to respect the speed and weight restrictions while keeping your eyes on the road even when surrounded by such natural beauty.

For more impressive Chinese wonders of engineering, check out the world’s scariest suspension bridge, as well as its impressive river highway.