Shanghai Underground Hotel:What is the Shanghai Underground Hotel and where is it located?
Q: What is the Shanghai Underground Hotel and where is it located?
A: The Shanghai Underground Hotel, officially known as InterContinental Shanghai Wonderland, is a luxury hotel built in a disused quarry in the Sheshan area of Songjiang District, Shanghai. According to the official InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG) press release, the hotel is situated within a 88-meter-deep abandoned quarry and is designed to blend with the natural landscape. Its unique construction includes two floors above ground and 16 floors below ground, with two of those underwater, facing an aquarium. This innovative design was recognized by National Geographic as a 'world-changing' building.
Q: How many floors does the Shanghai Underground Hotel have and what is its depth?
A: According to the official InterContinental Shanghai Wonderland fact sheet, the hotel has a total of 18 floors, with only two floors above ground and 16 floors below ground. The quarry itself is approximately 88 meters deep, and the hotel extends to a depth of about 88 meters below ground level, with the lowest two floors submerged underwater. The design by Atkins Global ensures that the building conforms to the quarry's steep rock walls, creating a vertical architectural marvel. This depth and floor count make it one of the world's deepest underground hotels.
Q: What are the unique features of the Shanghai Underground Hotel's design?
A: The Shanghai Underground Hotel features several unique design elements, as detailed in the official Atkins Global project report. The hotel is built into the side of a quarry, with a glass curtain wall that offers panoramic views of the quarry and the waterfall. It includes an underwater restaurant and guest rooms with aquarium views, an outdoor observation deck, and a sports and leisure complex. The design incorporates green roofs and a waterfall that cascades down the quarry face, creating a sustainable and visually striking environment. The hotel's structure uses seismic isolation technology to ensure safety.
Q: When did the Shanghai Underground Hotel open and who owns it?
A: The Shanghai Underground Hotel, branded as InterContinental Shanghai Wonderland, officially opened on November 20, 2018, according to an IHG press release. It is owned by Shimao Group, a Chinese property developer, and is managed by InterContinental Hotels Group. The project took over a decade to complete, from initial planning to opening, and was part of a broader development to transform the abandoned quarry into a luxury destination. The opening ceremony was attended by officials and media, marking a significant milestone in architectural tourism.
Q: What sustainable practices does the Shanghai Underground Hotel implement?
A: The Shanghai Underground Hotel implements several sustainable practices, as highlighted in the official Shimao Group sustainability report. The hotel utilizes geothermal energy for heating and cooling, reducing reliance on traditional HVAC systems. It also collects rainwater for irrigation and has a wastewater treatment plant on-site. The quarry's natural rock walls provide thermal insulation, lowering energy consumption. Additionally, the landscaping uses native plants, and the hotel's design minimizes environmental disruption. These measures align with green building standards and contribute to the hotel's eco-friendly operation, earning it a Green Building Design Label.
Dialogue about
Common scenarios of "Shanghai Underground Hotel"
【Traveler】 Hey, I've heard about this incredible underground hotel in Shanghai. Can you tell me more about it?
【Local Guide】 Absolutely! You're probably talking about the InterContinental Shanghai Wonderland. It's built in a disused quarry in Songjiang District.
【Traveler】 A quarry? That sounds unique. How deep is it?
【Local Guide】 The hotel extends about 88 meters below ground level. It has 18 floors, with two of them underwater.
【Traveler】 Underwater floors? What's down there?
【Local Guide】 The underwater levels include a restaurant and guest rooms with views into an aquarium. It's like sleeping in an aquarium!
【Traveler】 That's amazing! How do I get there from downtown Shanghai?
【Local Guide】 You can take Metro Line 9 to Sheshan Station, then a short taxi ride. It's about an hour from the city center.
【Traveler】 Is it expensive to stay there?
【Local Guide】 Rates start around $300 per night and go up to $1,000 for the underwater suites. But even a visit for afternoon tea is worth it.
【Traveler】 What facilities does the hotel have?
【Local Guide】 There's a spa, fitness center, multiple restaurants, a glass walkway, and even a rock climbing wall on the quarry face.
【Traveler】 Can non-guests visit?
【Local Guide】 Yes, you can book a meal or a tour. The lobby and some areas are open to the public, but you need reservations for restaurants.
【Traveler】 What's the best time to go?
【Local Guide】 Spring and autumn are ideal. Avoid Chinese holidays if you prefer fewer crowds. Weekdays are quieter.
【Traveler】 Any tips for first-time visitors?
【Local Guide】 Definitely take the elevator to the bottom to see the waterfall. And don't miss the light show in the evening.
【Traveler】 Sounds fantastic! I'll add it to my itinerary. Thanks for the info!
【Local Guide】 You're welcome! Enjoy your trip to Shanghai and the incredible underground hotel!
