Nestled beneath the surface of the earth, the InterContinental Shanghai Wonderland, also known as the Shimao Wonderland Intercontinental, is a marvel of modern architecture and engineering. This luxury hotel is not just constructed near a pit; it plunges 16 levels below ground, integrating seamlessly into the surrounding landscape. As the world’s first underground hotel, it stands as a symbol of innovative design, making considerable waves in the tourism and architectural worlds since it opened its doors in 2018.
Constructed in a deserted quarry in the Sheshan Mountain Range, on the outskirts of Shanghai, China, the hotel comprises 336 rooms and suites, many of which are underwater, lying beneath the quarry's water level. These rooms give guests unique views of the underwater world through floor-to-ceiling glass windows, including a distinctive aquatic ambiance that is hard to find elsewhere. Above ground, the building's structure strikes a minimal footprint — a deliberate design choice that enhances its ecological harmony with the environment. Two of the hotel’s floors are above the ground, hosting the rooftop that boasts an awe-inspiring glass walkway and an additional floor that holds the lobby, restaurant, and banquet hall.
The creation of the InterContinental Shanghai Wonderland is as much a technical achievement as it is an ecological endeavor. The project, which took around ten years to complete, was led by the British firm Atkins, the same group that famously designed the Burj Al Arab Hotel in Dubai. Each stage of the structure's development was meticulously planned to minimize environmental impact. This includes protecting local wildlife, incorporating green energies, and maintaining the structural integrity of the historical quarry itself.
Beyond the architectural wonders, the hotel offers an array of luxury amenities for its guests, from fine dining to adventurous activities. There is something otherworldly about dining in one of six themed restaurants while fishes swim by your side. The hotel also provides recreational venues dotted throughout, such as rock climbing and bungee jumping for the thrill-seekers, or more soothing spa treatments for those looking to unwind.
The InterContinental Shanghai Wonderland serves as a testament to the possibilities of sustainable luxury and inventive, respectful architecture. It’s not merely a place to stay but a destination to experience, offering a blend of natural splendor and opulence that trips deep into the subterranean and under the water’s surface, making it a bucket-list-worthy visit for travelers and architecture enthusiasts alike.
