The first of three sections of Zhuhai's latest landmark, City Balcony has opened to the public and consists of a commercial complex, rooftop sightseeing platform, and Shuixiu (water show) Square overlooking Xianglu Bay.

The Section 1 commercial complex cost 306 million yuan ($48 million). It is called Zhengfang iYoho and has two aboveground floors for tourism and catering and underground parking for 300 vehicles. A low building height ensures unobstructed views of mountain, lake, and sea landscapes. The waterfall, Shuixiu Platform, and sea-viewing stands are also designed to enhance the terrain, according to Cui Wei of Zhuhai Zhengfang Xiangzhou Port Development & Operation.

City Balcony came under construction in July 2019 at the site of the former Qiaoyuan Hotel on Central Lovers Avenue on the border of Jida and Old Xiangzhou. The comprehensive and open urban park covers 353,400 sqm (87 acres) including part of Jingshan Park and is just north of Haibin Park. It provides open views of Xianglu Bay, the Fisher Maiden, Jingshan Park, and Zhuhai Opera House on Yeli Island. It was listed as one of Zhuhai's Top 10 Livelihood Projects of 2019.  

Aerial view of City Balcony Section 1 between Haibin Road and Lovers Avenue on Xianglu Bay [Photo by Zhao Zi / Zhuhai Daily]

As for Section 2, the main structure of the tourist service building will be capped this month. Costing 214 million yuan ($34 million), S2 integrates mountain landscapes and scenic spots and includes updating the cableway in Jingshan Park. 

Construction of Section 3, costing 220 million yuan ($35-million), comprises a pedestrian overpass, bronze statue of Yang Pao'an, sky plank road, Shuixiu square, pedestrian bridge, passages under North Haibin Road, bus stops, and improvements to Cuihu Lake in Jingshan Park.