The world's largest indoor marine science park will open in Hengqin New Area this year at Chimelong International Ocean Resort after five years of construction and a decade in the works.

Shaped like a "giant 'alien' vessel," Chimelong Marine Science Park will hold 50,000 visitors. The ultramodern, science-fictional complex will have 10 themed zones and 5 km (3 miles) of tour routes on the 500,000-sqm (124-acre) site.

Chimelong Marine Science Park and Chimelong Marine Science Hotel [Photo provided to Zhuhai Daily]

More than 100,000 specimens among 300 varieties of rare marine animals will be displayed, including the world's largest population of manatees, living corals, and freshwater rays. Highlighted for aquatic exhibitions is the world's largest acrylic glass window, weighing more than 1,000 tons.

As of today, the major structure of the marine science park has been topped off. Treatment of most of the surrounding environment has been completed, as has 80 percent of indoor furnishing.

The connected Chimelong Marine Science Hotel has been popular with family vacationers since opening Jan 30. China's first hotel promoting immersive marine science, it offers 1,250 rooms including Indian and Arctic ocean guestrooms, Pacific Ocean resort rooms, Atlantic Ocean family lodgings, and Polar Bear and Captain's suites.

The second phase of the resort will emphasize marine science promotion, research, and study. Upon completion, it is expected to elevate the status of Hengqin as an International Leisure Tourism Island.