Beijing’s most charming side is showcased at the new Mandarin Oriental Qianmen, unveiled this week in China‘s capital.
The property, which has just 42 beautifully appointed courtyard houses, is in the heart of a traditional hutong neighbourhood.
It marks the Mandarin Oriental’s second hotel in the Chinese capital and offers a blend of luxury and local culture.
Following the ceremony, the much-anticipated signature fan of Mandarin Oriental Qianmen was also unveiled.
Designed by renowned Chinese artist Xu Bing, it incorporates his original “Square Character Calligraphy”, which arranges alphabets into rectangular forms that resemble Chinese characters. “Unveil Beijing’s Soul” is inscribed on the fan in Chinese ink, capturing the hotel’s spirit.
“We are truly honoured to open the doors of our unique hutong sanctuary, offering guests an unparalleled hospitality experience in the Chinese capital,” said Andy Guan, general manager of Mandarin Oriental Qianmen.
Situated within the cultural heart of Beijing’s Central Axis, the hotel enjoys a prime location, offering access to the capital’s most iconic sites.
Immersive dining experiences include Yan Garden, where Michelin-starred Chef Fei and his team craft superb Cantonese cuisine. Guests can also enjoy TIAO, a contemporary cocktail bar offering innovative drinks and upscale Beijing-inspired bar fare, or indulge in authentic, relaxed regional Italian dishes at VICINI. For a more serene escape, Maple Lounge provides an intimate setting, serving the finest teas in a tranquil courtyard.
One-of-a-kind event spaces offer the perfect canvas for unforgettable weddings, meetings and cocktail receptions across two settings: Mandarin Palace and Zhengyang Mansion.
TheSpa at Mandarin Oriental provides guests with a transformative experience beyond relaxation, featuring private treatment suites, a Tea House, a healing space and a fitness centre.
Experiences at the property include restorative wellness treatments and unique hutong tours.
The venerable capital of the world’s most populous nation, Beijing is a city that is huge on gravitas.
Anyone looking to get more of a handle on China’s amazing history will find plenty of grist down the narrow alleyways that characterise old Beijing. These charismatic streets—hutongs—are a world removed from the shiny chrome and glass towers that symbolise the contemporary capital.
Here, political movements were birthed, as well as advances in literature, costume and poetry. The streets have also traditionally been home to fascinating strands of Beijing society, with colourful characters leaving their imprint.