Best Historical Hotels in China

Just along from The Ritz is another historic institution – The Peninsula. Opened in 1928 and described as ‘the grand old lady’ of the island, she is a combination of all things modern and classic. Arrive by helicopter (it has its own private landing pad), take tea accompanied by a live orchestra, luxuriate in the spa, enjoy a sundowner on the terrace and dine at seven different eateries. There are 165 sleek and modern rooms in the original section of the hotel, with a further 135 in the new tower. Children are made very welcome too, with their own cheery bedding, bathrobes and cosy slippers.

This beautiful boutique hotel is one of the most sophisticated establishments in the whole of Chengdu. This 21st-century Chinese hotel combines contemporary touches with classic cultural elements to provide the perfect balance. Guests are invited to enjoy al fresco dining in the 10o0 year old courtyard, while there is also an indoor swimming pool as well as a large spa and fitness centre to make use of. There are eight different types of rooms to choose from and those who want to splash out are sure to love the Studio 90 suite with its enormous balcony, free maxi-bar and very comfortable furnishings.

A Niccolo hotel, The Murray offers a greener outlook than many of Hong Kong’s others – set apart from the ocean of skyscrapers, beside a lush park. Plush mid-century interiors have been created by architects Foster + Partners, reflecting the authentic 1960s exterior. 336 rooms include suites with freestanding tubs and you can even bring a small dog along with you. The decadent spa offers coveted and innovative treatments from Dr Barbara Sturm, who herself treats the international glitterati with age defying facials. Book an appointment with the hotel’s nutritionist, who can tailor a menu for your stay, customise a diet plan and carry out body tests.

Located inside the city walls, within walking distance of the historic Bell and Drum towers and the Moslem Street adjacent to modern shopping and entertainment areas, the hotel has the best location for guests to experience the picturesque Xian. This legendary hotel was established in 1953 and boasts a beautifully landscaped garden for guests to unwind in, while the Sun Terrace is the perfect place to dine in style on a wide selection of gourmet treats. The Prestige Suite provides guests with uncompromising luxury as well as stunning views of the garden from their large picture windows, while each guest room features a sumptuous king sized bed and plenty of luxury comforts.

Serving as a modern retreat in one of the most historical parts of the city, the Sofitel Xian on Renmin Square features a striking contemporary style and plenty of luxurious touches. Iconic attractions such as the Bell Tower and Muslim Street can be reached on foot in less than ten minutes, while guests can admire a whole host of impressive structures from the large picture windows that grace their room. With four restaurants and three different bars to choose from guests never need to venture far in search of refreshment, while the hotel also comes with a spa and wellness centre for guests to make use of.

Located in the former home of the famed Shanghai Club, the award-winning Waldorf Astoria Shanghai on the Bund stands out from the crowd with its seamless combination of Baroque Revival architecture and a brand new building in modern style. Within easy reach for a stroll along the Bund or the delights of Nanjing Road, it offers such excellent service that you won’t want to leave – from luxurious massages and treatments in the spa to personal shopping assistants and an on-site florist, as well as six distinctive dining options to suit all tastes. Make sure to check out the Long Bar, painstakingly restored to its former glory with the help of historic records and archive photographs.

One of the tallest hotels in the world, the Park Hyatt Shanghai sits 79 floors up in the Shanghai World Financial Centre, at the beating heart of the Lujiazui financial district. If you’re looking for comfort, the Park Hyatt has the largest standard rooms in Shanghai, as well as high ceilings for a spacious feel, and every room is elegantly and luxuriously appointed with a walk-in dressing room. Take advantage of the complimentary Tai chi class in the courtyard each morning to start your day right.

The fabulous Fairmont Peace Hotel combines Art Deco glamour with up-to-the-minute indulgence. Located in a prime spot right on Nanjing Road, China’s most famous shopping street, it’s an ideal base from which to explore the variety and excitement of Shanghai. Choose from six high-quality restaurants and lounges, including the ninth-floor terrace with unparalleled views of the city, and when it’s time to retire for the night, enjoy luxurious accommodations that have seen almost a century of history.

Part of the West Lake UNESCO site, this authentic shikumen brick-built mansion is an homage to its original era, yet very relevant in the 21st-century. Wooden shutters, Art Deco ornaments, furniture handpicked from local craftsmen and Chinese umbrellas for shade in the ground floor garden all a one-of-a-kind personality to this historic monument. Guests can stay in bedrooms, suites, villas, or townhouses, with up to four bedrooms. Le Lotus is the Chaptel Hangzhou’s gourmet restaurant, with Chef Jack Wang at the helm. And the plant-filled roof terrace is a charming setting for a nightcap.

Located moments away from the Nanjing Library and the Presidential Palace, The Grand Mansion Nanjing is the perfect base from which to explore the delights of Metropolitan Nanjing. Its 158 rooms and 16 opulent suites are adorned with artwork and artefacts. The rooms are open and spacious, and pay homage to Chinese history and heritage. They all come equipped with modern amenities including flat-screen TVs, Air conditioning and a minibar. The Grand Mansion is home to a fully equipped fitness centre, pool, business centre and Spa. It is home to four separate restaurants, including the Atrium, a restaurant which specialises in international cuisine. The Grand Mansion is a great place for families as it has its very own kid’s club and a separate children’s swimming pool.

Located in Beijing’s revitalised Shougang industrial zone, the Shangri-La Shougang Park offers 283 rooms and suites in a strikingly reimagined steel plant, blending raw architectural grandeur with the brand’s hallmark hospitality. The hotel stands as a centrepiece of Beijing’s urban regeneration, combining steel structures, lofty ceilings and glass facades with warm, contemporary interiors.

Dining is a major highlight, with Shang Brew serving craft beer and modern Chinese fare in an industrial-chic setting, Centennial Hall offering Cantonese specialities, and The Lobby Lounge presenting elegant afternoon tea with park views.

A wellness retreat awaits in the hotel’s fitness centre, indoor pool and spa, while family-friendly facilities include a dedicated Kids’ Adventure Zone. Just 20 minutes from the Winter Olympic venues and 40 minutes from Tiananmen Square, Shangri-La Shougang Park perfectly captures the creative spirit of modern Beijing.