SUNSHINE PARK – GRADE B+

This is really an unusual site for Beijing as it is in Central Beijing, and is close to the ever-popular Ikea. Called Sunshine Park, it used to have a a large carnival tent in the park which has long since rotted and fallen down. Most of the site apart from the multi-storey carpark has become overgrown. The carpark itself goes down one floor underground, where it has filled up with rain water and gives some incredible effects when the sunlight comes streaming through the holes at around midday. A word of warning however…

The site is relatively safe as long as you don’t fall off the sides of the carpark. Be careful of the junkie who lives in a tent beneath the ramp of the basement floor. He came out of his tent clothed only in his dirty undies, and then started to bounce and scream like a monkey. After that he charged at me. I ran like the wind. I didn’t see him the second time I went. Definitely worth a visit to this beautiful site.

Solana Hotel Chaoyang – Grade B+

      

Construction on the Solana Hotel was abandoned a few years ago. With its unique architectural styling including spiral staircases, and empty swimming pool, numerous towers, and best of all the secret tunnels that run under the basmement, Solana is a joy to explore and you will need at least a whole afternoon.

Maybe the best part about Solana is listening to the shoppers on the other side of the wall randomly buying stuff in the luxury mall. Also fun is spying on the resident security guard who spends most of his time asleep.

This is a solid Grade B+ site for Urbex.

Remember, if you or your friends would like to come Urbexing with me just send me a message, and we can set up a time to meet.

WARNING – This is an dangerous site, there is high risk of flooding on rainy days.