Imagine walking into a single building that feels more like an entire city than an apartment complex. That’s the reality for tens of thousands of residents who call this colossal S-shaped skyscraper home. With over 20,000 people living under one roof, it has gained viral attention worldwide, sparking debates about whether it’s a marvel of modern living or something straight out of a dystopian film. For those inside, however, this lifestyle is simply everyday normal—one where nearly every need can be met without stepping outside.
Standing at an incredible 675 feet tall and containing more than 5,000 apartments, the building is widely believed to be the largest of its kind in the world. Originally designed as a six-star hotel, it was later converted into a massive residential complex located in Hangzhou’s central business district. Today, it’s especially popular with students, young professionals, and graduates seeking affordable housing in a prime location. Apartment sizes range from tiny studios to larger multi-room units, creating a mix of living arrangements that cater to different lifestyles.
What makes this place so remarkable is not just its scale, but the facilities tucked within its walls. Residents can grab groceries, visit a salon, eat in a sprawling food court, swim in indoor pools, or even spend hours in internet cafés—without ever leaving the building. Depending on which section you live in, the amenities may differ slightly, but the concept is the same: this is a “vertical city,” designed to provide everything a modern urban dweller might need.
Surprisingly, the costs are far lower than in many other global cities. Small apartments, some without windows, typically rent for around 1,500 RMB per month (about $210), while larger units with balconies go for roughly 4,000 RMB ($570). When compared to cities like New York—where average rent is over $4,000 per month—the value is hard to ignore. Yet beyond affordability, what truly captures the imagination is the scale and design: a single building where life, work, and leisure all converge, raising the question of whether this is the future of urban living or a glimpse of something more unsettling.
