InterContinental Shanghai Wonderland: Hotel in the Depths of a Quarry
InterContinental Shanghai Wonderland, also known as the Shimao Quarry Hotel, is a one-of-a-kind architectural project located in the Songjiang District, around 30 kilometres from central Shanghai. Built inside an abandoned quarry, the hotel has become a global landmark of modern engineering and design. Officially opened in late 2018, it continues to attract travellers from all over the world in 2025 thanks to its unique underground structure and carefully designed facilities that merge luxury with technical innovation.
Architectural Integration into the Quarry
The hotel is seamlessly integrated into the walls of the disused quarry, blending modern design with the natural landscape. Unlike traditional skyscrapers that rise upward, this project descends into the earth, with most of its floors built below ground level. This inverted design was chosen to preserve the surrounding environment and utilise the quarry’s unique shape as a natural backdrop.
The outer façade features glass walls that allow guests to enjoy panoramic views of the quarry’s cliffs and artificial lake. The design ensures natural light penetrates deep into the structure, reducing the need for artificial lighting during the day and enhancing the sense of harmony with nature.
In addition to its architectural significance, the hotel represents a strong example of sustainable reuse. Instead of leaving the quarry abandoned, the developers transformed it into a thriving hospitality space, setting a precedent for similar projects worldwide.
Underground and Above-Ground Levels
The InterContinental Shanghai Wonderland has 18 floors in total, with 16 extending below the ground surface and only two above. This makes it the world’s first luxury hotel to be constructed so deeply into the earth. The top levels above ground host the main reception and access points, while the underground levels contain guest rooms, restaurants, and leisure facilities.
At the lowest two floors, located underwater, guests can find suites with spectacular views directly into an aquarium-style environment. These underwater rooms create an immersive atmosphere where guests can relax while watching fish swim past their windows.
The contrast between the two above-ground levels and the sixteen underground floors creates a striking visual and functional balance. It is this unique arrangement that has made the hotel a true architectural wonder.
Facilities and Guest Experience
The Wonderland offers 336 luxury rooms and suites, many of which face the quarry’s waterfall and lake. Each room is designed with floor-to-ceiling windows, ensuring that guests can fully appreciate the surrounding natural beauty. The hotel’s restaurants serve both international and Chinese cuisine, providing fine dining experiences in a truly distinctive environment.
One of the highlights is the indoor pool situated underground, giving swimmers the impression of being inside the quarry walls. There is also a spa, fitness centre, and conference halls, making the hotel suitable not only for leisure but also for business travellers.
The combination of luxury amenities with the natural quarry landscape creates an atmosphere unlike any other hotel. Every part of the guest experience has been designed to emphasise the connection between modern comfort and the dramatic geological surroundings.
Restaurants, Pools, and Special Zones
The hotel features several dining options, including restaurants positioned below ground level with glass walls that overlook the quarry and water features. Dining here provides guests with both culinary and visual satisfaction, creating an atmosphere that cannot be replicated elsewhere.
The leisure areas, including the pool and spa, are strategically located underground to emphasise the sensation of being inside the quarry. This not only maximises space but also enhances the feeling of exclusivity and innovation.
Special underwater suites are particularly popular among visitors. These rooms are located within the lowest floors and feature direct views into an aquarium, allowing guests to observe marine life as part of their private experience.
Engineering Challenges and Construction
Constructing a luxury hotel within a 90-metre-deep abandoned quarry presented enormous engineering challenges. Traditional building methods could not be applied, and the project required years of planning and innovative techniques to ensure safety and durability.
One of the biggest difficulties was preventing water from flooding the lower levels. Engineers developed advanced waterproofing systems and pumping technology to keep the underground areas secure and dry. In addition, special reinforcements were built into the quarry walls to guarantee stability.
Safety standards were maintained at the highest level throughout construction, which lasted more than a decade. The project was considered an engineering milestone upon completion and has since been recognised internationally for its groundbreaking design solutions.
Innovative Solutions in Design
The use of vertical gardens and natural lighting systems helps reduce the environmental impact of the hotel. Renewable energy sources are also integrated into its daily operations, reflecting China’s broader commitment to sustainable development in hospitality.
The combination of steel and glass with the natural rock walls creates a fusion of modern and geological elements. Engineers carefully monitored seismic activity and environmental conditions during construction to adapt the design for long-term stability.
These technical solutions not only allowed the hotel to exist but also made it safe, eco-friendly, and capable of withstanding the challenges of its unusual location.
