Tencent's iconic messaging app signed a strategic partnership on Tuesday with InterContinental Shanghai Wonderland, the world's first underground hotel built out of a decommissioned quarry, in its latest bid to make hotel-staying a more intelligent experience.

The preservation of the industrial heritage, which is rooted in quarry mining for cement production, is accompanied by the protection of its intangible heritage.

A former quarry mine has been built into a popular tourist resort in Beijing's Fangshan district.

"There was only one willow tree left when the mine was active, but now, the valley is blanketed with natural greenery," said Wang Zhenhua, general manager of the former Caojiafang quarry.