Inside ‘dystopian’ apartment complex where 20,000 residents never need to leave

In China, one of the country’s largest apartment complexes provides residents with all the amenities they could need, so much so that they might never have to venture outside.

When looking for a new place to live, what amenities would you insist on having nearby?

Possibly a laundromat that operates with a card system and a large Whole Foods?

Maybe you’d prefer a series of trendy restaurants and an entertainment area with bowling alleys, karaoke bars, and late-night pizza spots to curb your cravings?

For those residing in Regent International in Qianjiang Century City, this is not just a dream but a living reality.

This Chinese residential tower, measuring 675 feet in height and spanning 260,000 square meters, is among the largest in Hangzhou’s central business district.

Within Regent International, residents can find everything from food courts to barber shops, nail salons, swimming pools, internet cafes, and medium-sized supermarkets.

Though fresh air isn’t supplied by the building itself, as opening a window is necessary, residents may still want to venture outdoors occasionally to enjoy nature.

Aside from taking a walk, building management appears to have addressed all other needs.

Various Chinese-language publications have commented on the building’s sizeable population. A 2023 entry from Hangzhou Network Media (translated via Google Translate) noted: “During the peak period of the population moving into the shared housing, Regent International had more than 30,000 residents.”

In contrast, a 2021 report mentioned within the article stated that there were only 10,000 permanent residents officially registered at that time.

Regent International has gained viral attention on social media, particularly on TikTok, due to its remarkable amenities.

While the facilities are impressive, the building’s sheer size is what initially captures the attention of people online.

A TikTok video by user @fatheristheone highlights the building’s enormity through stunning drone footage.

The building was originally designed by Alicia Loo, who is also the chief designer of the Singapore Sands Hotel, the world’s second seven-star hotel, with the intention of being a six-star hotel.

However, it now operates as a residential building with thousands of apartments and residents.

The upscale living spaces are mainly favored by students, graduates, and young professionals.

For those wondering about costs, smaller apartments without windows are typically priced at about 1,500 RMB per month ($210), as reported by local news.

Larger units with balconies are available for approximately 4,000 RMB per month ($570).