Mandarin Oriental Beijing

Originally opened in 1989 as China’s first ever luxury hotel, the iconic Peninsula Beijing is today experiencing a second heyday after a significant renovation which took place in 2017. Doubling the size of all the hotel’s guest rooms, the Peninsula Beijing’s wonderful location, new décor and large suites have propelled it to once again becoming one of the city’s most rewarding hotels.

Set close to the Forbidden City, amid the business and shopping district, the hotel is the perfect luxury base for discovering Beijing. Splendid new décor and layouts are enjoyed throughout the hotel, with its high lobby ceilings, marble floors and grand staircase combined with Chinese artistry and craftmanship, alongside cutting-edge technological features. The 230 suites which populate the hotel are extremely spacious, with separate living areas, bathrooms and dressing rooms. Featuring a bespoke design, the vibe is a mixture of contemporary and classic Chinese styles, complete with striking furnishings and attractive artwork.

Three great dining options can be considered during a stay at the Peninsula Beijing, including Jing Restaurant with its delicious and contemporary French cuisine. Huang Ting brings an authentic and local identity with its Cantonese offerings, while The Peninsula Yun, with its rooftop setting, serves up modern Mediterranean sharing plates. Guests can also dine in The Lobby, renowned for its breakfast, brunch and afternoon tea service.

Further indulgence can be found in the Peninsula Spa, a luxurious sanctuary of wellness that offers everything from Chinese to Ayurvedic philosophies across its ten treatment rooms.

You’ll find The Opposite House to be a wonderful contradiction. Taking its name from the guesthouse which sits on the opposite side of a traditional courtyard home, the hotel blends old and new design elements seamlessly to create a throughly unique experience in the heart of Beijing’s Taikoo Li Sanlitun district.

The first thing you’re sure to notice is the hotel’s striking and modern emerald glass exterior, inspired by a traditional Chinese wood lattice. Chosen by eminent architect Kengo Kuma, it conveys calm while both reflecting the vibrant street life outside and providing a soft screen to those on the inside. 98 contemporary studios and a duplex penthouse benefit from the same clean and uncluttered design as are found in the hotel’s communal areas. Underfloor heating ensures rooms are always cosy while bathrooms are adorned with spa-inspired features, deep soak oak bath tubs and rain showers.

When you’re not busy discovering the stainless-steel pool – a masterpiece in lighting and atmosphere, you’ll enjoy exploring the hotel’s four restaurants and a cocktail bar. Venture outside of the hotel’s welcoming walls and you’ll find that you’re well placed to explore Beijing’s diplomatic quarter Sanlitun as well as the Unesco World heritage Hidden City, the Summer Palace and Temple of Heaven.

Step back into the time and land of the Chinese Ming Dynasty here at the regally ornate Aman Resort. Just moments from the UNESCO-protected Summer Palace, with a secret door leading directly to the iconic landmark, this property was once the guest quarters of the palace and so promises every touch of imperial indulgence.

Housed in authentic pavillions, the luxurious suites surround internal courtyards with traditional wooden screens and bamboo blinds adorning the guestrooms. A sense of tranquility and opulence prevails here and although tradition has been preserved, an impressive array of modern comforts can be sincerely enjoyed.

Three restaurants serve a range of Cantonese and international cuisine, the fabulous underground spa and pool ensure leisure is taken care of, while a cinema, library and yoga studio offer further lavish amenities.