Best Design Hotels in China

Perfectly placed for those visiting on business, Langham Place is found in the new Haizhu district, not far from the river. Its architecture, by Aedas International, is remarkable and makes up a part of the Nanfung Commercial Hospitality and Exhibition Complex. The hotel offers 500 rooms with floor to ceiling windows spread over twenty-three floors and is part of the famed London Langham Group. Enjoy that quintessentially British tradition of formal afternoon tea (with Wedgewood). Dine alfresco, in the open-plan buffet, or at its Michelin Plate restaurant, Ming Court, then relax over drinks on the Sky Bar’s chic and glitzy outdoor terrace with breathtaking views.

Waldorf Astoria Shanghai Qiantan, the brand’s second address in the city, offers 204 rooms and suites designed by Kohn Pedersen Fox and Cheng Chung Design. Located on the southern stretch of the New Bund in Pudong, this serene riverfront retreat balances Shanghai’s cosmopolitan rhythm with a sense of calm and connection to nature. Interiors draw inspiration from the city’s Art Deco heritage, blending East–West influences through intricate craftsmanship and contemporary design.

Dining spans modern European cuisine at Arame, refined Min cuisine by Michelin-starred chef Justin Yang at Fu Cheng, and afternoon teas or signature cocktails at Peacock Alley. Guests can unwind in the tranquil spa, swim in the 25-metre marble-clad indoor pool, or maintain balance in the 24-hour fitness centre. The hotel’s position offers direct access to Qiantan Park and the waterfront promenade, while nearby cultural landmarks such as the West Bund Art Museum and Tank Shanghai make it a sophisticated base for both leisure and business travellers seeking understated grandeur on the river’s edge.

Stylish, confident, and welcoming, The Hari Hong Kong melds the commercial polish of nearby Causeway Bay with the creative energy and design-forward spirit of neighbouring Wan Chai. Rising 30 storeys above Lockhart Road, the hotel comprises 210 rooms and suites, including three expansive rooftop Signature Suites. Interiors are the work of celebrated British designer Tara Bernerd, whose signature aesthetic blends warm, layered textures with an elegant, modern residential feel. The hotel opened in December 2020 as the sibling property to The Hari London, bringing the brand’s ethos of tailored hospitality and refined design to the heart of Hong Kong Island. It represents the vision of Dr. Aron Harilela, Chairman and CEO of Harilela Hotels, who has distilled over four decades of experience into this independent luxury brand. With its rich design language, lively dining venues, and curated art programme, The Hari Hong Kong is more than just a stylish address, it’s a cultural and social hub, and a distinctive addition to the city’s luxury hotel scene.

Nestled along the shores of West Lake, this hotel provides views of the water, the lush garden grounds and the surrounding mountains, creating a tranquil ambience. Seamlessly blending traditional Chinese aesthetics and native artworks with contemporary elements, the architecture features graceful lines and intricate details. A sanctuary of tranquillity and rejuvenation, the spa provides beauty rituals inspired by ancient Chinese traditions. Curated experiences such as tea ceremonies, calligraphy lessons and traditional musical performances also enable guests to immerse in local heritage. The InterContinental’s rooftop bar is a standout feature and an ideal vantage point to admire the breathtaking West Lake sunsets.

Marking the brand’s first foray into Greater China, this hotel opened its doors for the first time on the 18th of December 2023. Based in Tsim Sha Tsui beside Victoria Harbour, it has 324 guest rooms, 12 of which are two-bay suites. The architecture, by Karin Krautgartner, is striking, complemented by bespoke art installations. Ascend to the top floors to discover the cocktail and dining spaces. Carna is an Italian steakhouse on 39, by butcher Dario Cecchini. Avoca (whose name means The Meeting of Waters) has superb views from floor 38, cocktails and a lighter menu, with live DJ sets.

Rising 51 stories above the city, The St. Regis Shenzhen Bao’an brings timeless elegance, bespoke service, and sophisticated design to one of China’s most dynamic districts. Designed by André Fu, the hotel blends New York’s glamour with Shenzhen’s innovative spirit, offering 289 refined rooms and suites with panoramic views and signature St. Regis Butler Service.

Guests can indulge in four exceptional dining venues, including Yan Ting for modern Cantonese cuisine, The St. Regis Bar with its exclusive Bay Mary cocktail, The Drawing Room for the brand’s signature Afternoon Tea, and The Astor Terrace Bar, a rooftop retreat with fine wines and handcrafted cocktails. The St. Regis Spa, 25-metre infinity pool, and state-of-the-art Fitness Centre provide a sanctuary of relaxation and wellness.

With over 1,000 square metres of event space, including the Astor Ballroom, the hotel is ideal for both intimate gatherings and grand celebrations. Located just 15 kilometres from Shenzhen Bao’an International Airport and close to key cultural and business hubs, The St. Regis Shenzhen Bao’an sets a new benchmark for luxury in the city.

Set on Gulou Square, just 50 meters from the Metro, the InterContinental is housed in a skyscraper building. Accommodation begins at the 49th floor, ensuring some epic views (especially those that look onto the nearby Xuanwu Lake). There are 433 bedrooms, each with air purifiers and tea and coffee makers. Plus there are indoor and outdoor pools, a spa and events spaces including huge ballrooms. Prime Restaurant Bar is found on the 78th floor, making it the highest restaurant in Jiangsu, and Summit Restaurant on 76th floor is the highest Chinese restaurant in the province.

Located in the heart of Hong Kong’s central district, The Pottinger invites guests from around the world to experience old and new Hong Kong in beautiful, bustling surroundings. Offering the choice of 68 stylish and spacious rooms and suites, this boutique hotel extends a warm welcome to all. These rooms include plush beds and an elegant, modern décor with an oriental touch – not to mention the exceptional views. Boasting a myriad of awards, the Sino Group’s ‘The Pottinger’ exudes luxury. Home to gastronomic excellence, guests are encouraged to dine out at one of the hotel’s lavish restaurants, HUSO or the 3 Michelin-starred Ta Vie旅, to enjoy an exciting fusion of global cuisines. If you’re looking for a sweet treat, Venchi offers velvety, artisanal delights to satisfy your cravings. The Pottinger encapsulates the perfect blend of authenticity and luxury.

TUVE, Hong Kong lies east of Victoria Park and offers a unique, minimalist stay for those who dream of tranquillity and simplicity. The hotel has 66 rooms, adorned with timeless décor, for guests looking to stray from the norm. The premier, deluxe, and comfort rooms are spacious and expertly decorated with natural materials to promote purity and quietness. Harmony is assured thanks to beautiful, soft lighting as well as the inviting natural light provided by large windows. TUVE is located in a calm neighbourhood to compliment the air of serenity that the hotel is renowned for and is in stark contrast to the hustle and bustle of surrounding areas. Despite TUVE’s intentional minimalism, your every need is met by the hotel’s facilities and dedicated, 24-hour reception team. It is no wonder TUVE boasts many accolades and comes highly recommended by guests.

Suites in this complex on the Cotai stretch boast picture windows and minibars, as well as all the usual perks. As befits the resort’s name, decor is Venetian-themed, with gondola rides along interior canals adding to the illusion. Thirty dining alternatives, including a food court, cater for all tastes, while other attractions provided on site are shops, a gym, swimming pools, live entertainment and a casino. And if guests should want a change of scene, the Venetian Macao Resort Hotel is within easy reach of all the sights.

Stay just a little way from Hong Kong Island, in the hubbub of colourful Kowloon. Hotel Icon, owned by Hong Kong Polytechnic University, has Asia’s largest vertical indoor garden designed by French botanist Patrick Blanc and a Green Cafe – providing a welcome change in a sea of skyscrapers, walkways and roads. Hotel Icon also has 262 rooms, oodles of Chinese artwork, an outdoor pool, three restaurants and an elite glitzy club lounge with free drinks and snacks (for those choosing to upgrade).

This stylish urban retreat sits on the bank of the Huangpu River, giving guests a sense of serene relaxation even in the vibrant heart of Shanghai. Dine in style on a terrace overlooking the Bund, take afternoon tea in the sophisticated Banyan Lounge, or enjoy drinks on the roof bar. Unwind in one of the three relaxation pools or visit the yoga studio to find your serenity after a busy day exploring everything the city has to offer.