A\n province in southern China known for its stunning natural beauty can \nnow also boast the world\u2019s largest man-made waterfall \u2013 but it doesn\u2019t \ncome cheap.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Flowing 108 metres (350 feet) down the glass exterior of the Liebian International Building in Guiyang, capital of Guizhou province, the waterfall is about 3 metres longer than the previous record holder at the Solar City Tower in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.Chinese tourists accused of pinching \u2018crown jewels\u2019 from Vladivostok\u2019s glass beach<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Built\n by Ludi Industry Group, the feature uses recycled water from basement \nstorage tanks, which is pushed to the top of the 121-metre-high building\n by four giant pumps before re-emerging as a cascade from a massive \nopening on one side.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Once\n fully occupied, the multi-purpose building will comprise offices, shops\n and a luxury hotel, company director Cheng Xiaomao said, though the \nlatter has to be completed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The idea for the waterfall came from company president Zhou Songtao, who said he wanted to promote the city\u2019s green image.SUBSCRIBE TO US China Trade WarGet updates direct to your inboxBy registering for these newsletters you agree to our T&C and Privacy Policy<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cGuiyang is a city of mountains, and with many trees, just like a forest. He wanted to create a feeling of water and greenery, even when you are surrounded by skyscrapers,\u201d Cheng said.From Africa to Europe, dragon boat races are spreading across the world<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Although\n the waterfall was completed about two years ago, it has only been \nturned on six times, with the latest occasion being for half an hour on \nSunday to mark the Guiyang International Marathon.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Nevertheless,\n people had already begun to consider the building a local landmark and \nwere using it as a place to go for a walk or to socialise, Cheng said.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Once fully occupied, the multi-purpose building will comprise offices, shops and a luxury hotel. Photo: ImaginechinaShare:<\/a><\/a><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n One\n of the reasons the waterfall does not appear more often is the \noperating cost. While the water comes free, the price of powering the \npumps is about 800 yuan (US$117) an hour, Cheng said.<\/p>\n\n\n\n While some internet users questioned whether the extravagant design was a waste of money, others were full of compliments.<\/p>\n\n\n\n \u201cThe\n scene is very impressive. You seldom see a waterfall in a city,\u201d said a\n woman in a video published on the Pear Video website this week.<\/p>\n\n\n\n \u201cIt looks very soothing on a hot summer day. The idea is very creative,\u201d said another.<\/p>\n\n\n\n One social media user was undecided, however.<\/p>\n\n\n\n \u201cA\n price must be paid for an artificial spectacle, especially a large one \nlike this. Whether it\u2019s a waste of money or worth more than the 800 yuan\n an hour is for the company to calculate.\u201d<\/p>\n