The sprawling complex has opened in Chengdu, a Southwestern Chinese city of 14 million people. It has been designed by British-Iraqi architect Zaha Hadid, who is said to have been influenced by the ocean, particularly its “sailing seagulls and undulating waves”.

The building – which welcomes visitors with a dominating 18-storey atrium – has been developed as something of a mini-city. Some of its features include a pair of five-star hotels, retail areas, an IMAX cinema and a huge amount of office space.

However, perhaps its most striking feature will be its ‘indoor beach’ – a 400 metre long sandy beach, with a full pirate ship replica floating in the water. A 100 metre tall screen emulates the horizon for the full ‘seaside’ experience (even though Chengdu is almost 1,000 kilometres from the coast).

To expand the holiday feel, the building also offers a “Mediterranean shopping village”. Artificial sun technology ensures the sun will be shining around the clock – particularly important for visitors given the fact that Chengdu is one of China’s most polluted cities.

The (Chinese government approved) video below brings viewers on a tour of New Century Global Centre: