Since opening in 2021, Shanghai’s West Bund has transformed a former industrial area into a massive public space with its mix of art museums, dining outlets, cafes and open green spaces by Huangpu River waterfront.
One of the most ambitious future additions in the Xuhui Waterfront is the West Bund Star Dome, a RMB1.2 billion (US$178 million) immersive entertainment venue designed around a giant spherical structure.
Touted as China's first and the world's fourth venue of its kind, the attraction will feature an intelligent LED façade with dynamic lighting effects inspired by the skyline across the river in Lujiazui.
Inside, visitors can expect large-scale immersive experiences powered by a 360-degree panoramic screen system and a circular auditorium capable of accommodating around 3,000 guests.
Designed around a giant spherical structure, the dome is expected to become China's first and the world's fourth venue of its kind. It will feature an intelligent LED facade with flowing blue and purple lighting effects that mirror the lights of Lujiazui's buildings across the river.
Construction is scheduled to begin in the second half of 2026, with the venue expected to open by the end of 2027.
Westbund Central is set become one of the world’s largest mixed-use commercial complexes. Photo Credit: Hongkong Land Holdings Limited
In addition, the completion of Phase Two of Westbund Central – an US$8 billion mega-development within the district – marks another milestone in the area's evolution. Developed by Hongkong Land Holdings Limited, the project is set to become one of the world’s largest mixed-use commercial complexes.
Westbund Central’s newest phase introduces mix of global first stores, designer labels, and flagship concepts. Around 12,000 sqm of retail space is open, with an additional 30,000 sqm opening within 2026.
With a planned total gross floor area of more than 1.7 million sqm, the project is scheduled to open in phases up until 2028.
Once the final phase is complete, the ultra-premium integrated development will offer two hotels spanning 55,000 sq, 240,000 sqm of retail space, over 50,000 sqm dedicated to cultural and art facilities, 600 international retail and lifestyle brands, 180 F&B operators and 650,000 sqm of offices.