Best Independent Style 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.

The PuLi Hotel and Spa is located in the heart of Shanghai for ease and convenience, but its luxurious facilities and urban resort vibe means that you’ll still feel like you’re getting away from it all. Take advantage of the generous and comfortable rooms, Michelin-starred restaurant, 24-hour butler service and state-of-the-art health club, including a stunning infinity pool with a view of Jing’An Park, for ultimate relaxation.

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.

Boasting beautiful interiors and cutting-edge style from top Asian designer Andre Fu, the mountain and harbour views here are to die for. Found on Pacific Place above a glitzy mall, there are 117 rooms and suites, decorated in a warming, soothing style with bamboo, limestone and woollen textiles. There’s an eco-friendly vibe with hybrid hire cars for hire, paperless checkouts and organic food. The in-house restaurant, Café Gray Deluxe is renowned, as is its chic adjacent bar, popular with well-heeled business people.

Located in the historic Dazhongli area, the Upper House Shanghai is one of Shanghai’s coolest and most modern hotels. The hotel was designed by renowned architect Piero Lissoni and seamlessly blends Shanghai’s modernity with a historic and dramatic flair. The hotel’s rooms and suites are tranquil and minimalist, they feature large beds, deep baths, and Chinese artwork. The Middle house is home to its own tranquil Spa, which is complete with bamboo corridors and glowing hallways, it also boasts its own gym, yoga studio and swimming pool. The hotel is home to the Frasca, a traditional Italian trattoria, and Sui Tang Li which serves exceptional dim sum and classic Chinese dishes. The hotel also boasts the Sui Tang Shang, a secret cocktail bar, and Café Gray, a sophisticated international restaurant and bar.

Located high above the city in the Shanghai Tower, China’s tallest skyscraper and the second tallest in the world, the hotel spans the 84th to 105th floors and also occupies the 120th floor. It boasts 165 luxurious rooms and suites, which rank among the highest and most spacious in the city. The stunning interiors feature lacquer, glaze, and enamel finishes complemented by metal, crystal, and mosaic details generating an artistic and creative ambience. Guests can relax at the Reiki spam work up a sweat in the fitness centre and indulge in world-class dining experiences at the hotel’s seven restaurants and bars, each offering a unique ambiance and panoramic views of Shanghai.

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.

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.

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.

Set in International Finance Square, the Niccolo Chengdu has long served as a playground for the rich and famous. The 20-metre indoor lap pool is the perfect place to take a dip, while there is also an onsite sauna and fitness room. Each of the spacious 230 guestrooms and lavish suites is flooded with light thanks to the floor-to-ceiling windows. Guests are treated to an iPad mini as well as extremely fast WI-FI, 500-threadcount linen and luxurious Lorrenzo amenities. There are several excellent onsite restaurants to choose from with authentic Italian dishes being served at Niccolo Kitchen, Yue Hin offering classic Chinese dishes and a mixture of dishes from around the world are served at Pu’er.