Intercontinental Shanghai Wonderland Review – A One-of-a-Kind Hotel Inside a Quarry

If you’re searching for a stay that’s luxurious, innovative, and truly unforgettable, the Intercontinental Shanghai Wonderland deserves a spot on your list. Built 88 meters deep into an abandoned quarry, this architectural marvel in Shanghai blends cutting-edge design with natural surroundings to create an experience like no other. It’s more than just a hotel—it’s a world-class destination that every serious traveler should check off their bucket list.

Curious what it’s like inside? Read our full Intercontinental Shanghai Wonderland review with Gother and see what makes this one-of-a-kind hotel truly extraordinary.

Intercontinental Shanghai Wonderland is located outside central Shanghai, trading urban convenience for serene, panoramic views and a one-of-a-kind natural setting. Operated under the Intercontinental Hotel Group (IHG), it guarantees the brand’s signature blend of luxury and high-standard service.

Built 88 meters deep into a repurposed quarry, the hotel offers a wide range of room types, with prices starting around THB 10,000 and reaching nearly THB 100,000, depending on the category. For those seeking an extraordinary stay, underwater suites are available. Prefer exclusive comforts? Club Rooms offer lounge access and added perks.

What truly sets this hotel apart is its bold, futuristic design—each area feels like a statement. With dramatic architecture and breathtaking natural backdrops, Intercontinental Shanghai Wonderland is a dream location for photography lovers and design enthusiasts alike.

The moment you see it, Intercontinental Shanghai Wonderland is impossible to ignore. Carved directly into the cliffside of an abandoned quarry, the hotel’s futuristic exterior feels like something out of a sci-fi film. Inside, industrial mining elements are artfully blended with the signature luxury of the Intercontinental brand.

Exploring the hotel feels like entering a refined underground world, where raw stone meets sleek design. It’s bold, dramatic, and effortlessly elegant, offering a visual experience that’s just as captivating as the stay itself.

For this stay, we booked a Classic Room—the hotel’s standard category, though at Intercontinental Shanghai Wonderland, nothing feels ordinary. At approximately 36 sq.m., the room is perfectly sized for two guests. The design is modern and understatedly elegant, with the option of a king bed or twin beds. Select rooms also feature a private balcony overlooking the quarry—an especially romantic sight at night when the cliffs are beautifully illuminated.

The bathroom setup is equally impressive, with a separate bathtub and walk-in shower, offering flexibility for both relaxed soaking and quick refreshes. Whether you’re here to unwind or explore, the layout supports both.

What was truly impressive were the luxury touches. The bathroom amenities include products from not one, but two premium brands: Byredo and Acqua di Parma. Even the minibar is thoughtfully curated, with bottled water options like Evian and Voss—subtle details that make the experience feel effortlessly upscale.

Sky Walk (Cliff Viewpoint)

Start your visit at the highest point of the hotel—the Sky Walk. From here, you’ll get a panoramic view of Intercontinental Shanghai Wonderland, dramatically embedded 88 meters deep in the quarry. The surrounding water and cliff formations create a truly awe-inspiring backdrop. It’s the perfect first stop for content creators and photography lovers alike.
 

Grand Glass Lobby

This isn’t your typical hotel lobby. Designed as a statement piece, the Grand Glass Lobby features towering ceilings and expansive windows that flood the space with natural light. Behind the glass: a massive natural rock wall. Come by at 8:30 PM to catch the nightly light and drone show—a spectacle that feels straight out of a luxury theme park.
 

Lower-Level Terrace

Venture to the hotel’s lowest level for an up-close view of the water and cascading falls. Surrounded by quarry walls and misty spray, this terrace evokes a scene straight out of the movie. It’s a stunning photo spot, especially for couples looking to capture a memorable moment.
 

Rebalance Swimming & Fitness

The indoor pool offers more than just a swim. Set against the raw stone of the quarry and lit by soft natural light, it’s designed for ultimate relaxation. Whether you’re recovering from a day of sightseeing or capturing a chic photo for social media, this spot delivers.
 

Glass Walkway

Encircling the hotel, the glass walkway provides an immersive view of the natural landscape. Visit around sunset when light reflects off the water, creating a surreal, floating-in-nature effect. A must for both solo travelers and romantic strolls.
 

Observation Deck (Entrance Viewpoint)

Just outside the entrance, this deck gives you a full view of the hotel nestled into the quarry wall. It’s one of the most popular photo spots in any Intercontinental Shanghai Wonderland review. For the best shot, come at golden hour or after dark when the hotel lights illuminate the cliffs.

Local Bus

Taxi

Despite high occupancy rates (as seen in longer check-in queues and busy restaurants), the service at Intercontinental Shanghai Wonderland holds up impressively well. Staff members go above and beyond to accommodate guests, even when language barriers arise. While not all team members are fluent in English, they make a sincere effort to assist, whether it’s helping with luggage, calling a taxi, or offering general support during your stay.

One thing that stands out in nearly every Intercontinental Shanghai Wonderland review is the team’s attentiveness and willingness to help. It’s these thoughtful touches that elevate the guest experience and reflect the brand’s commitment to quality service, even in the smallest details.

After staying at Intercontinental Shanghai Wonderland and exploring every corner—from the architecture to the service—We can confidently say it’s one of the most unforgettable hotel experiences I’ve ever had. This isn’t just a place to stay; it’s a destination in itself. With its futuristic design, one-of-a-kind quarry location, and endless photo-worthy spots, it redefines what a luxury hotel can be.

Whether you’re traveling as a couple, with family, or solo, this hotel checks every box: stunning views, thoughtful service, and a level of uniqueness that’s hard to find elsewhere.

So if you’re planning your next trip to Shanghai and want a stay that truly goes deep—literally and figuratively—don’t miss the chance to book Intercontinental Shanghai Wonderland, flights, and unforgettable activities—all in one place at Gother.