The Intercontinental Shanghai Wonderland, slated to open next month, will be unique for many reasons. But the most-eye popping is that 16 of the hotel’s 18 floors will technically be underground.
The hotel was built into the side of the abandoned Shenkeng Quarry in Songjiang, about 22 miles outside of Shanghai. It plummets 300 feet down to a pool of water at the bottom of the quarry.
The hotel will have 337 guest rooms and suites. Guests will be able to take in the impressive panoramic views from their room’s rounded balconies.
In addition to being an impressive architectural feat, the building is notable for its environmental impact. It creates its own power — including heat and lighting — through geothermal and solar energy, and the roof is covered in greenery.
Water runs throughout the structure. A waterfall, built into the center of the hotel, pours into the pool at the bottom of the quarry. The two bottommost floors are built completely underwater. One floor will have guest rooms and a restaurant, both facing an underwater aquarium. At the bottom of the building, there’s a sports complex that includes a swimming pool.
The quarry is located close to tourist attractions like the Chenshan Botanic Gardens and Sheshan National Park.
It took a team of more than 5,000 architects, engineers, designers, and workers more than 10 years to complete the hotel.
Room rates are not yet available — but it is unlikely to come cheap. The hotel will be a five-star luxury experience when it opens in October.
