How millennial travellers are bringing Chinese heritage hotels back in style
From Shanghai to Yunnan, these hotels proudly display their heritage
Heritage hotels are among the most architecturally engaging and experiential accommodation anywhere in the world. From the repurposed 15th century palazzo and convent that was the Four Seasons Florence to Singapore’s Fullerton Hotel, once the city’s general post office, heritage hotels are also among the most luxurious. China has its share of historic buildings, and these are six of its most memorable heritage hotels.
Fairmont Peace Hotel, Shanghai
Perhaps not the first but the Fairmont Peach Hotel is among China’s most famous heritage hotels. The former Cathay Hotel on the Bund, now comprising 270 guestrooms and 39 suites, was built by industrialist Victor Sassoon and designed by Palmer and Turner (Hong Kong’s Pedder Building). Completed in 1929, it has been at the centre of Shanghai life ever since. The classic art deco structure is as recognisable for its green, corroded copper pyramid top as it is for its storied past hosting Gang of Four meetings to post-war government offices.
Alila Yangshuo, Guilin
Taking in the distinctive karst topography of Guilin, Alila Yangshuo’s 117 rooms and suites are housed inside a former sugar mill that has been redesigned by Dong Gong at Vector Architects. Integrating the old with the new, the hotel pays homage to the structure’s history and to its place in the region. Perched on the Li River, the mill built in the 1960s has been preserved and reconfigured, and now incorporates the mill and industrial truss in the hotel’s central core and plaza. Technology has helped to replicate the original design and its connection to the karst surroundings.
Amanyangyun, Shanghai
