China was once globally recognised as the “Kingdom of Bicycles,” yet many of its cities saw cars become dominant, making cycling increasingly difficult and hazardous.
However, a renewed focus on cycling is emerging, driven by the popularity of bike-sharing schemes, frustration with traffic, and urgent efforts to combat air pollution.
This renaissance is helping to rekindle the country’s historic “love affair with cycling” – and so the 4.7 mile Xiamen Bicycle Skyway was built
Xiamen’s Sky-High Solution
Taking this commitment to new heights, the southeast city of Xiamen unveiled the worldโs longest elevated cycle path in 2017, a remarkable 4.7 miles (7.6km) skyway exclusively for bikes.
Designed and completed in just six months by Danish architects Dissing+Weitling, this innovative project aims to solve pragmatic transport problems. The Xiamen Bicycle Skyway provides a safe and enjoyable experience for citizens while addressing increased traffic congestion and pollution.
Video: POV of riding the Xiamen Bicycle Skyway
The aerial cycleway, 4.8 metres wide, is suspended beneath Xiamenโs existing overhead bus transport system. It connects major residential and business sectors, capable of accommodating over 2000 bikes at a time.
With 11 entrances, the path seamlessly integrates with 11 bus stations and two subway stations, also offering bike parking and rental services.
A Model for Urban Mobility
The Xiamen Bicycle Skyway has garnered significant international acclaim, including winning the Danish Design Awards 2019 in the new ‘Liveable Cities’ category.
The jury recognised its positive impact on the urban environment and ecology. They stated, “Bringing new life to an otherwise dead part of the city and integrating different forms of traffic, the Skyway solves a very complex challenge”.
This project exemplifies a global trend towards creating dedicated, elevated cycling infrastructure to enhance urban mobility and sustainability.
Dissing+Weitling has also contributed to Copenhagenโs ‘Bicycle Snake,’.
Xiamen’s impressive skyway enhances connectivity and accessibility, demonstrating how cities can become greener and more liveable for their inhabitants.
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