Fairmont Beijing Review

See why the Fairmont Beijing, particularly the Junior Suite Fairmont Gold, is a smart and stylish choice for discerning travellers seeking an elevated Beijing experience that combines personal service, thoughtful amenities, and an unbeatable location.

Beijing can overwhelm first-time visitors with its sheer scale, density, and pace. But hidden in plain sight within the city’s pulsing Chaoyang District is the Fairmont Beijing—a refuge of golden calm where tradition, refinement, and quiet luxury meet. 

From the moment we arrived, we knew this hotel was going to offer something special. Greeted by the building’s glimmering rose-gold façade and warmly welcomed inside by staff, we were quickly ushered into a world of plush furnishings, thoughtful gestures, and subtle elegance. One early standout moment: the beautifully presented birthday cake waiting in our suite, a gesture that spoke volumes about the hotel’s attentiveness.

Background and Concept

Opened in 2010, the Fairmont Beijing was one of the brand’s first forays into mainland China, and it remains a flagship property for good reason. Its design blends classical Chinese aesthetics with clean, modern lines and plush materials. Interiors feature silk-panelled walls, warm amber lighting, and traditional screens—all anchored by an unmistakable sense of Fairmont polish. 

The décor speaks not to flash or trends, but to timelessness and refinement. There is no attempt to overwhelm the senses here rather, the hotel offers a serene, stylish pause amid the chaos of a capital in perpetual motion.

The guest experience is elevated further in the Fairmont Gold program, essentially a “hotel within a hotel.” With access to a private lounge, dedicated concierge service, and elevated in-room amenities, Gold status transforms a stay from luxurious to bespoke.

Location

Few hotels in Beijing can claim a better balance between accessibility and tranquillity. Fairmont Beijing sits just a two-minute walk from Yong’anli Metro Station (Line 1), placing guests within easy reach of both historic sites like the Forbidden City and modern hotspots such as Sanlitun. The hotel is also a short stroll to the famed Silk Market—a labyrinth of tailors, trinkets, and textiles—and mere minutes from the bustling GuoMao CBD, making it a favourite among both corporate travellers and leisure guests.

Getting to and from the hotel was refreshingly straightforward. Our airport transfer from Beijing Capital International Airport took around 40 minutes and cost about 250 RMB—a fair price for a smooth and stress-free journey.

First Impressions and Service

The first impression was one of understated opulence. The golden-glass exterior sparkled in the afternoon sun, while inside, a blend of polished stone, ambient lighting, and soft textures set a calming tone. The staff were uniformly warm and professional, and it quickly became clear that this was a team operating at a high level of attentiveness.

The birthday cake surprise in our suite was a thoughtful touch that immediately stood out. Moments like this, personalised, unexpected, and genuine, made us feel like more than just guests. We were treated like returning friends.

This kind of service was consistent throughout our stay. The Gold Floor concierge team was particularly memorable: helpful without being overbearing, proactive in offering support, and knowledgeable about everything from nearby restaurants to last-minute spa bookings.

Our Junior Suite Fairmont Gold

Our Junior Suite Fairmont Gold was an elegant and functional space, offering 56 square meters of comfort. While not ostentatious, the suite felt curated with intent. Neutral tones, soft textures, and clean lines provided a calming backdrop to floor-to-ceiling windows with striking views of the surrounding cityscape.

The suite layout was ideal: a cosy seating area for reading or working, a spacious desk, and a plush king-sized bed that practically begged for a nap after a long flight. The soundproofing deserves special mention it ensured uninterrupted sleep in a city known for its energy and bustle.

Small luxuries abounded. A full-size automated massage chair offered post-sightseeing bliss, while in-room appliances like a humidifier and air purifier demonstrated thoughtful consideration for Beijing’s climate and air quality. There were also plentiful USB ports in useful places—something even many newer hotels often miss.

The bathroom was its own sanctuary, with a deep soaking tub, walk-in rain shower with great pressure, and rich marble finishes. A well-lit vanity, luxury amenities, and fresh towels replenished regularly added to the feeling of quiet indulgence.

It’s worth noting that while the suite was extremely comfortable, signs of age are beginning to show in some areas. A future refurbishment would be welcome, but for now, the comfort and thoughtful features easily compensate.

Dining and Lounge Experience

Dining at Fairmont Beijing is both a pleasure and a discovery of contrasts—elevated Chinese cuisine, modern Western fare, and casual bites all find their place.

Lunar 8, the hotel’s upscale Chinese restaurant, is a must-visit even for non-guests. 

Its famed Peking Duck—tender, perfectly crisped, and carved tableside is among the city’s best. The menu leans toward traditional Beijing flavours with a modern twist, and service is impeccable.

The Cut, the hotel’s sleek steakhouse, offers a completely different vibe. Think low lighting, quality wines, and expertly grilled imported meats. It’s a great spot for both romantic dinners and business meals.

As Fairmont Gold guests, our days began and ended in the Gold Lounge, which quickly became one of our favourite hotel perks. The lounge is open all day for drinks and snacks, with structured offerings at breakfast and cocktail hour. Morning meals included fresh pastries, Chinese specialities like dumplings and congee, made-to-order eggs, and barista-quality coffee. In the evenings, a spread of gourmet canapés, wine, and light entrées provided the perfect pre-dinner indulgence—or in some cases, substituted for dinner entirely.

Facilities & Wellness

Fitness Centre: Compact but well-equipped with cardio machines, weights, and yoga mats. Open 24/7 for convenience.

Willow Stream Spa: Located just off the pool area, the spa is one of the city’s more elegant and relaxing options. The massage I received here was professional, unhurried, and perfectly tailored to travel-weary muscles. Facilities include hot and cold plunge pools, steam rooms, and serene lounge areas stocked with refreshments.

Swimming Pool: The indoor pool is warmly lit and rarely crowded—ideal for an early-morning swim or post-exploration unwind.

Other Points of Interest Nearby

• Silk Market: Famous for bargains and bespoke tailoring. Tip: go early in the day to avoid crowds.
• China World Centre: Shopaholics can rejoice here – just a 20-minute walk from the hotel at GuoMao, the China World Mall offers multi-level luxury shopping, fine dining, and top-tier amenities in Beijing’s iconic trade center.
• Reignwood Theatre: Located right next to the hotel, the theatre blends European elegance and art with cutting-edge tech, hosting global performances, banquets, and East-meets-West cultural experiences in Beijing.
• Tiananmen Square & Forbidden City: Easily reached via Line 1 or a short taxi ride.

Final Thoughts

Fairmont Beijing balances timeless luxury with personalised service in one of the city’s most desirable locations. While the hotel could benefit from a soft refurbishment in the near future, the strengths far outweigh any signs of ageing. Service is consistently outstanding, and amenities like the massage chair, Gold Lounge access, and in-room air-care systems speak to a guest-first mentality that’s hard to fake.

It’s the kind of place where you feel taken care of without being hovered over. Where comfort doesn’t mean excess, and where quiet moments—a great coffee in the lounge, a birthday cake on arrival, a nap in a massage chair—linger in memory long after check-out.