We get a sneak peek at Tencent's swanky new digs.
Tencent, Asia's first tech company to cross the $500 billion valuation mark, has opened its swanky new headquarters in Shenzhen, China. Comprising of two towers, it can hold up to 11,000 employees.
The North and South towers are connected by three bridges called the Cultural Link, the Health Link and the Knowledge Link. These connections reflect connectivity, the core of Tencent's business.
Tencent says it's way more modern than its old headquarters from more than a decade ago.
This robot (far right) can help guide you to the washroom.
Every floor is guarded by a facial recognition system that will only let in staff registered on their system. Here, the system is telling me it doesn't recognise my face.
These four figures aren't just for show. They represent Tencent's core values of integrity, proactivity, collaboration and innovation.
Health nuts are in for a treat. Tencent's new home boasts several facilities for a workout session -- including this gym -- which are run by outsourced professional fitness institutions.
Employees can opt to engage in a match of table tennis or badminton...
Or even a game of pool.
Alternatively, sweat it out with a run around the bridge.
There are two lanes -- one for jogging and the other for walking.
Unfortunately for rock climbing enthusiasts, this station is still closed because safety equipment hasn't been installed yet.
There are basketball fans among Tencent's employees, including among the big-wigs. This court aims to satisfy their love for the sport with regular games held throughout the year.
Some floors are connected by fancy stairs like these.
This one actually reminds me of the local library.
Four canteens offer lunch to Tencent's employees at rates cheaper than eateries outside. They serve a wide variety of cuisines.
This one in particular sports Chinese motifs in its design, here on the door panels...
And around the interior.
There's also a cafe on the ground floor -- as if four canteens weren't already enough! It's called "Image," but staff call it "Ai Ma Ge," which translates to "Love Brother Ma." Yes, they don't address Tencent CEO Pony Ma as "sir" or "boss." He goes by the endearment "Ma Ge," or Brother Ma.
Employees can hang and chat over a cuppa or hold casual meetings.
The cafe not only serves food and drink but also sells Tencent merchandise.