The Sheshan Shimao Pit Hotel, built almost entirely below ground level, and dubbed a world wonder of modern engineering, has begun construction of its steel frame with an expected completion of the entire project in 2017.
The hotel will consist of 19 floors, only three of which, the lobby, meeting center and dining and recreation facilities, will be above surface level. The hotel's roof will feature a hanging garden.
Under the ground surface but above a lake at the bottom of the pit is the hotel's main structure, where standard rooms will be located. The two deepest floors will be set under water, the location of some of the more luxury suites, as well as a banquet hall with a capacity of 1,000, a thermostatic spa and a leisure swimming pool.
According to the project plan, viewing balconies will be equipped in all 370 rooms that will allow guests to see the 100 meter-high waterfall on the other side of the pit.
There will also be a sightseeing platform beside the waterfall similar to the glass viewing gallery at the Grand Canyon National Park in the U.S., where visitors can take in the view of the whole landscape.
