The Changsha IFS complex consists of two skyscrapers — Tower 1 rising 452 metres (the ninth tallest building in China) and Tower 2 at 315 metres — looming over the old commercial streets near Wuyi Square. The towers represent Changsha's transformation from a secondary provincial city into one of the more economically dynamic places in central China. They are also notable for a giant inflatable duck installation that was suspended between the towers during promotional events, which gained international attention.
Tower 1 has an observation deck at the upper floors with panoramic views over the Xiang River, Orange Island, and Yuelu Mountain. The IFS mall at the base concentrates luxury retail and international restaurants. From the street, the contrast between the towers and the old commercial lanes running beneath them — the Taiping Street and Pozi Street heritage districts are a five-minute walk away — captures something true about how rapidly Changsha has changed since 2000. The observation deck costs ¥120 and requires advance booking on holidays.