Classic China

Aman at Summer Palace, which opened in fall 2008, is located just outside the east gate of the palace, and meticulously designed to harmonize with the graceful architecture of the former retreat of China's emperors. A series of century-old guesthouses, built for guests awaiting an audience with Empress Dowager Cixi, have been transformed into a hotel with 18 rooms and 25 suites. With their trademark sensitivity to historic properties, Aman has decorated the interiors with period furniture and rich fabrics that evoke the grandeur of the palace itself. There are three restaurants: The Grill; The Chinese Restaurant, which has an elegant Ming Dynasty interior; and Naoki, helmed by chef Naoki Okamura and specializing in his trademark "French Kaiseki", which combines the best of French haute cuisine with Japanese artistry. Other amenities include a bar, a library, and the Aman Club — a spa and fitness-center complex including a large pool, located underground to preserve the harmonious aesthetic of the architecture. The Aman is a 45-minute drive from central Beijing and a 45-minute drive from Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK).

Situated in the Central Business District of China's bustling capital city, this luxurious hotel offers some of the most spacious rooms in Beijing. The opulent designs of the rooms, with plush amenities and gorgeous artwork, extend to the restaurants, which are not only gorgeously decorate but also feature gourmet dishes as prepared by experienced chefs, ranging from traditional Chinese dishes to international flavors. An expansive spa, state-of-the-art fitness center, and magnificent pool solidify the hotel’s status as a premier destination.

Located in Beijing's stylish new Village at Sanlitun shopping and entertainment complex, the Opposite House is a unique small hotel designed by noted Japanese architect Kengo Kuma. While the exterior is clad in squares of varying hues of vibrant green, the 99 rooms and suites are soothing, decorated in warm, neutral tones and fitted with pale wood furniture and crisp white linens. Kuma says he intended for the blend to create the calm of an "urban forest." The hotel's name is derived from the Chinese term for the guest house in a traditional courtyard compound, which was located opposite the main house. There are a variety of restaurants and bars to choose from, in keeping with the hotel's Sanlitun location: Michelin-starred Jing Yaa Tang is known for its Peking duck and dim sum; Frasca offers wholesome Italian dishes; Superfly is a modern mix of Sichuan plates, creative cocktails and craft beers; while UNION is all about the welcoming hospitality along the Silk Road. There is no business center, but wi-fi is available in all rooms and public spaces. There is also a high-design spa surrounding a large and visually striking stainless-steel-clad pool, which offers massage therapies, a steam room, sauna and fitness center. Opposite House is 40 minutes from Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK).

The timeless Peninsula Beijing sets the bar for elegance and luxury even higher, as it completes a full renovation, and emerges even more palatial. In the heart of China’s fast-paced capital, the hotel combines imperial architecture and ancient culture with contemporary style and luxurious modern conveniences. From the hotel’s own fleet of chauffeur-driven custom Rolls Royce Phantoms, to decor featuring masterpieces by internationally-renowned Chinese artists, every detail is attended to. Fully overhauled rooms and suites feature sleek decor in cool, tranquil hues, decked out with every conceivable convenience and comfort. From afternoon tea in the iconic lobby to world-class cuisine crafted by well-traveled chefs, diners will be delighted, and both business and leisure guests will find relaxation amid the spa and wellness facilities.

Set within the city’s central business district, The Ritz-Carlton, Xi’an is the ideal base for experiencing this vibrant, ancient capital. Merging traditional elements with modern luxury, the hotel's 283 guest rooms and suites offer great views spanning across Xi’an. Home to 13 imperial Chinese dynasties, Xi’an today is a blend of history and modernity from a mix of eras and influences, where the UNESCO World Heritage-protected Terracotta Army lives among a thriving tech culture. Dining options include three restaurant venues offering International menus, fine dining Cantonese, Japanese teppan cuisine, as well as a Lobby Lounge with signature Afternoon Tea service, and a rooftop bar offering impressive sundowner views. Facilities include a well-equipped gym, indoor swimming pool, and spa offering a menu of wellness treatments.

The Shangri-La Hotel in Xian is located in the heart of the Gaoxin hi-tech district, just a stone’s throw away from the ancient city walls of the old city. Each of the hotel’s 390 guest rooms and suites features floor-to-ceiling windows and chic modern decor, as well as complimentary Internet access. Dining options include: traditional Thai cuisine at Siam Garden; pan-Chinese cuisine at Tian Xiang Ge; and International cuisine at the Yi Cafe. The hotel also has a state-of-the-art health center, a luxurious spa, and a swimming pool with sauna and steam room. The Shangri-La Xian is approximately 30 minutes by car from the Xianyang Airport (XIY).

A stunning hotel with harmonious architecture blending French and Sino-Russian touches, a true heritage feel exudes from the detailed exterior. Step inside and the lofty ceilings, ornate mouldings and coving, art deco influences along with state of the art technology make this an incredible hotel befitting of the name Legend. The overtone of luxury is hard to miss. Everything from the service, the detailed inlaid floors, chandeliered ceilings and air of elegance places this hotel in a league of its own. Set in ornate gardens with flowing waterfalls and incredible gazebos, entering the hotel is like entering another world, a world of pure opulence and indulgence. With 37 suites, each designed with attention to the smallest of details, the minimalist design oozes luxury and comfort, striking an almost impossible balance. The signature Italian restaurant whisks guests away to the heart of Italy, or dine in comfort and privacy with food delivered to the suites.

The new Rosewood Chengdu will be located in the top floors of a 300-meter-tall mixed-use building, towering above the city's CBD. The property will be comprised of 180 guest rooms and suites (including the exclusive Manor Club executive lounge), four restaurants and bars, a spa, a fitness center, a swimming pool and business facilities.

Blending the traditional with the modern just like the city it stands in, The Temple House is a masterclass in elegant design. Guests enter through the lovingly-restored courtyard, dating back to the Qing dynasty, and the historic style is integrated into many of the building’s features. The hotel’s service, though, is slick and up to date, with paperless systems ensuring an effortless check-in so guests may relax in their elegant room, apartment or suite in no time. From local and international cuisine to tea and cocktails, the dining options are comprehensive and delicious, and with a spa, indoor pool, steam and sauna facilities and a state-of-the-art gym on site, every whim is taken care of. 

Catering to today's ultra-luxury travelers, Capella Shanghai is situated in the city’s Xuhui District cultural preservation zone, carrying on the rich tradition of the Jian Ye Li estate. Originally built in the 1930's by a French real estate company (Foncière et Immobiliere de Chine), the property features 22 rows of shikumen (stone gate) townhouse lanes, connecting over 200 two-story houses. Painstakingly restored by a team of experts, today the Capella Shanghai showcases Shaghainese traditional courtyard living with a touch of Parisian flair. The Jian Ye Li estate encompasses 55 shikumen villas and 40 residences. All villas are designed by Jaya International Design, each featuring luxurious king and twin beds, premium bath amenities by Acqua di Parma, personal assistant service, and other cutting edge technological gadgets. The expertly designed rooms marry French-accented furniture with Chinese artwork and accessories. Meals are served from the kitchen of renowned chef Pierre Gagnaire at le Comptoir, Capella Shanghai’s own restaurant providing elegant French cuisine. Additionally, guests enjoy round-the-clock in-room dining services, 24-hour gymnasium facilities, and a former water tower renovated to providebeautiful views of Shanghai's skyline.

The new Rosewood Shanghai will transform the city's skyline as part of a new 320-meter-tall tower building in the Puxi district, offering convenient access to the emerging business and cultural areas of Jung-An and Suhewan. The property will be composed of 200 guest rooms and suites, five restaurants and bars, as well as Asaya, Rosewood's award-winning wellness concept.

Urban sophistication and class become one at The Middle House hotel and residences located in the heart of downtown Shanghai. Designed by renowned Italian architect Piero Lissoni, The Middle House offers 111 guest rooms and 102 serviced apartments — The Middle House Residences — all of which feature a luxurious, yet simple and elegant, style of décor. Further adding to the ambience is an exquisite collection of artistic pieces including porcelain and ceramic works, paintings, photography, and more, which serve to complement Lissoni’s overall design concept of “dignity and refinement”. The Middle House is also service-oriented, with available options for guests such as house vehicles and a hassle-free, paperless arrival and departure system. A multifaceted Spa and Wellness Center with an extensive retail space, juice bar, and 24-hour gym facilities, among other amenities, affords Middle House guests the ability to relax in a tranquil setting after busy days spent in the thick of the city’s hustle and bustle.

Located on the Puxi side of the Huangpu River, the Peninsula Shanghai has fabulous views of the Bund, Pearl Oriental Tower and other historic and modern architecture along the Pudong side. Befitting its location in the Pearl of the Orient, the Peninsula’s style is modern while retaining a chic stylistic nod to the city’s Art Deco past. There are 235 guestrooms and suites, which all feature plasma TVs, Nespresso coffee machines, iPod docking stations and wifi access, lending a residential feel to the hotel. Four themed suites – the Astor, Majestic, Palace and Peninsula – set new standards in luxury living. For fine dining within the hotel, Yilong Court for Cantonese cuisine or Sir Elly’s for Western fare in a beautiful setting with views of the Bund are excellent options. The Compass Bar, Lobby and Salon de Ning are lovely places for a night cap. There is a Peninsula spa by ESPA, which offers the brand’s award-winning treatments in a neo-classical setting , indoor pool and fitness center with a DVD library such that gym goers can watch their favorite programs while using the cardio machines. The Peninsula is 40-60 minutes’ drive from the airport, depending on traffic.