A tidal bore is a rare natural phenomenon when the leading edge of an incoming tide propels a wave that runs up a river in the opposite direction of its current. These massive bodies of water are true tidal waves as opposed to a tsunami which runs over open ocean. The tidal bore in Hangzhou, known as the Silver Dragon, has been customarily watched by locals for over two thousand years. It is also the largest in the world and can climb up to 9 meters in height while traveling 40 kph. In the past few years, however, a new tradition is taking root. Surfers from all over the world are flying into Hangzhou to ride the longest wave in the world. Using jet skis and boats, the surfers can enjoy up to ten kilometers of continuous action. Even the bureaucratic Chinese sports administration is getting in on the action and promoting it as a blockbuster event for extreme sports in the country. Thousands of people come out everyday to watch the tidal bore at its height around the mid-autumn festival. Check the photos of gawkers below as well as this excellent video.
