Shanghai shopping mall opens 5-story indoor slide

SHANGHAI -- A five-story indoor slide in the shape of a dragon in a Shanghai shopping mall is attracting big crowds among locals.

The ride along the 66-foot stainless steel slide takes about 15 seconds from top to bottom, and riders must be between 7 and 50 years old.

The slide is not transparent, but there are small holes throughout.

According to the Pudong New Area Market Supervision and Management Bureau, the slide does not fit into any special equipment category, thus compulsory inspection is not required.

However, the department store operator has sent the slide for tests and maintenance in case of potential safety hazards.

Currently, only VIP mall customers can ride the slide, but it will soon be open to the public for free.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.