Step Inside: The North Bund Magic Jungle

By Natalie Foxwell, 2019-05-15 08:12:07

The name Magic Jungle elicits a feeling of adventure, and this is exactly what’s waiting for thrill seekers at a new German-designed playground along the North Bund in Hongkou district. It’s fun, it’s exhilarating and it’s suitable for anyone aged 4 to 60.

The newly-developed North Bund waterfront offers walkers, joggers and cyclists a blend of green pathways, river views and now, the new Magic Jungle rope structure.

With over five stories and more than 90 different routes to choose from, would-be Ninja Warriors can climb, swing and test their balance with a surge of adrenaline thrown in for good measure. It’s a physical workout with amazing views of the Bund that will have the entire family engaged and begging to go back again. Trust us; this will not be a one-off visit!

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Gif via 新民晚报/Baijiahao

Parents, before you begin, rest assured that safety belts and professionally-trained staff are on-hand to keep everyone protected during their adventure. The climbing structure has multiple levels of difficulty, each identified by color.

Blue – beginner

Red – intermediate

Black – advanced

Green – viewing platform

The ground level is for the youngest family members, and it’s a lot of fun. This playground is suitable for children over 100 centimeters and they must be accompanied by an adult. There are 16 activities here, including a simple obstacle course, seesaw and merry-go-round, along with a mini climbing wall and flying fox. This area is an excellent warm-up for the little ones to get in on the action.

Level 2 is where the adventure begins for bigger kids and adults. This ropes course adventure structure has a lot going on, and with each level comes new challenges through a range of exhilarating activities.

There are climbing walls, ropeways and a giant 16-meter-high swing, reminiscent of a pirate ship ride at a theme park.

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Image via 魔都矩阵/Weibo

And, don’t miss the low-altitude bungee jump from the fourth floor. Not your traditional ‘hanging-from-your-feet’ bungee, this is a low-speed free fall (in a harness, of course). It’s quick and not at all frightening; the buzz as you fall is kind of addictive.

As you climb your way around the structure, another way to return to the bottom is the 40-meter-long transparent slide. Be brave enough to keep your eyes open and take in the view of the cityscape as you swirl your way down. It’s fast, but worth it, even if just once!

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Image via 魔都矩阵/Weibo

Finally, the piece de resistance is the observation platform on the top level. A reward for your persistent climbing and courage is a spectacular view of the Bund and Huangpu river; a truly memorable way to take in this magical city!

Magic Jungle, see listing here.

[Cover image via Sohu]


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