architecture

InterContinental Shanghai Wonderland
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The Tianma Pit Hotel, The Shimao Quarry Hotel, is incredible

InterContinental Shanghai Wonderland

The hotel, InterContinental Shanghai Wonderland, 上海洲际世茂仙境酒店, Shànghǎi Zhōujì Shìmào Xiānjìng Jiǔdiàn, called also Tianma Pit Hotel, or Shimao Quarry Hotel, Songjiang, or Pit Pegasus Hotel, is built in a deep pit beside Tianma Mountain in Songjiang district of Shanghai.

After few delays, the opening of the hotel is expected to be around the end of 2018.

The British InterContinental Hotels Group will run the project as one of its flagship hotels in the country under the banner of Shimao Wonderland InterContinental. According to Shanghaiist, the group has an investment of US$555 million in the project.

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Rooms are expected to be priced at a floor of US$320 per night.

Shanghai Songjiang National Scenic Area was hidden in an abandoned pit. This pit was the quarry of the Japanese invaders before the liberation, and they used the stones collected there to build bunkers.

In 2006, Shimao Group decided to make use of the natural environment in the deep pit to build a five-star hotel, integrating the entire hotel with the area.

The project has been established as early as 2006. Shimao Group spent seven years on scientific feasibility studies and geological examination to solve all the architectural problems of the underground space.

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According to the design plan, the main building of this five-star hotel includes the hotel lobby, conference center, guest room section, entertainment catering, and logistics services.

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The combination of the unique cliffs, the natural resources, the waterfalls, and the natural indoor and outdoor gardens create a unique ecological environment.

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A large waterfall falls, hanging from the cliff, forming a spectacular sight in the hotel atrium.

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Source: baike

Topics: songjiang hotel construction,songjiang hotel wiki,shimao quarry hotel,songjiang quarry hotel china,songjiang international hotel,mega projects,china mega projects,mega projects in China

Gulangyu: A Journey Through China's Fascinating Colonial Past
China Underground >

Exploring the Colonial Heritage of Gulangyu Island through its Architecture

Gulangyu Island’s Colonial Era Architecture: A Journey into the Past

Xiamen, also known as Amoy, is a small but bustling city located in southern China that overlooks the Straits of Taiwan. With a population of over two and a half million people, Xiamen is considered small by Chinese standards but has always been an important trading port due to its advantageous geographical position.

Related articles: Images of Xiamen, The Ancient Earthen Castles in Tulou

Despite its modest size, Xiamen is a cosmopolitan city that has retained its multi-ethnic past. Visitors can observe the particular mix of European, Chinese, and Japanese architecture that is present throughout the city. A must-visit spot is the nearby small island of Gulangyu, which is known for its varied colonial architecture and Mediterranean climate.

Gulangyu has an interesting history that dates back to the mid-1800s when the British established their first concession on the island. Later on, the Japanese and Americans also took an interest in the island as a possible naval base. However, after the conquest of the Philippines in 1899, they abandoned the idea. Despite this, foreign powers continued to open consulates and trade offices in Xiamen. In 1902, a city council was elected, consisting of six representatives from both foreign and Chinese backgrounds. Fourteen nations opened representative offices, including Germany, France, Denmark, Austria, Norway, Sweden, Belgium, and the Philippines.

Gulangyu colonial architecture

Today, Gulangyu is a tranquil island that bans cars and bikes, which helps to create a peaceful atmosphere. Visitors can hear only the sounds of the wind, trees, and the many pianos and organs that can be found on the island. In fact, Gulangyu holds a special record for having the most number of pianos per capita.

Xiamen and Gulangyu are unique destinations that offer a mix of history, architecture, and natural beauty. Visitors can enjoy the bustling city life in Xiamen and then take a short ferry ride to the peaceful island of Gulangyu to escape the hustle and bustle.

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The photographs depict the intricate designs of Western-style structures prevalent on Gulangyu Island. These buildings, ranging from large mansions to simpler residences, reflect the impact of various foreign entities that have influenced the island’s architectural landscape over time.

Images of Gulangyu, Xiamen

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Photos: Matteo Damiani

 Topic: places to visit xiamen China, where to go in xiamen,what to see in xiamen,xiamen holiday, xiamen china

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