Hotels in China

Unusual and Unique Hotels in China

Unusual and Unique Hotels in China China boasts many hotels that stand out from the ordinary; from those shaped like rings at the center of lakes to ones completely underground - each offers something out-of-the-ordinary.

The best hotels provide an ideal blend of stylish modernity and traditional hospitality.

1. Sheraton Huzhou Hot Spring Resort

Sheraton Huzhou Hot Spring Resort by Beijing-based MAD Architects is an architectural marvel, comprising an immense ring of interwoven floors arranged around a lake. Offering 321 rooms spread out in 27-story towers connected at higher levels forming an arc across the lake, MAD's design offers spectacular viewing.

The Sheraton offers guests a selection of luxurious amenities, including state-of-the-art fitness facilities and indoor and outdoor pools. To relax further, massage, hot spring bath or sauna services are also available for their comfort.

This pet-friendly hotel follows Marriott's Commitment to Clean policy of providing masks, hand sanitizer and room disinfectants to combat germs.

2. Commune Hotel

The Commune Hotel provides guests with an intimate connection to China's northern landscape through its architecture, design and food. Guests can experience refined Chinese cuisine prepared using seasonal local ingredients while taking advantage of tailored private dining experiences such as in-villa dinners or gourmet picnics on the Great Wall.

Commune Hotels + Resorts, an international lifestyle hotel management company comprising Joie de Vivre, Thompson, Tommie and Alila brands; and Destination Hotels have come together to form one independent and lifestyle hotel operator. Together they will deliver operational excellence for property owners while creating an impressive distribution system to accommodate leisure, business and group travelers who travel exclusively or predominantly with independent lifestyle hotels.

3. Pangu

Pangu is the legendary creator of Chinese culture and mythology, representing the beginning of life on Earth by breaking out of an egg that contained it all. His story highlights Yin-Yang balance and serves as an emblematic representation of China as an advanced civilization among its barbaric neighbors.

One version of this myth states that when an egg hatched, its lighter parts rose upward to form the sky while the heavier parts settled toward earth, but Pangu pushed and grew until he finally managed to divide these forces by pushing and growing at them and eventually stopping growing altogether after 18,000 years, turning into wind, mist, clouds, thunder; his voice transformed into thunder; eyes into suns and moons and finally body into mountains, rivers and fertile land.

4. The Peninsula Shanghai

The Peninsula Shanghai stands as one of the only new buildings to open in Shanghai's historic Bund since 1959 - and marks their debut since 2009. Furthermore, they are part of their esteemed Peninsula group which also opened a hotel there back in 2009.

Rooms at Peninsula Shanghai combine classic Peninsula standards of luxury and state-of-the-art technology in a stylish, glamorous environment. Deluxe Garden rooms overlook green views while Grand Deluxe River Rooms showcase expansive Huangpu River and Pudong skyline vistas.

Dining at The Peninsula is a delight, featuring Sir Elly's Restaurant, Bar & Terrace and Yi Long Court all led by Michelin-star chefs who are experts at creating culinary masterpieces. Additionally, there's the 13,455sq ft Peninsula Spa for pampering treatments including heat experiences, top-of-the-line products and highly trained therapists.

5. Hotel Far & Near Nanhao St

Within 10 minutes of Tiger Hill Pagoda, this property boasts a rooftop terrace for stargazing and minimalist rooms that are well lit thanks to large frosted glass windows, providing both natural light and privacy. Furthermore, Suzhou railway station can be reached quickly on foot.

Kooo Architects of Shanghai have taken action against China's urban revitalization by converting an industrial seven-story concrete building into a minimalist boutique hotel. Inside, its lofty ceilings and stripped-back concrete walls provide a sense of scale while its frosted windows bring in ample natural light into each bedroom.

6. The Waterhouse

With its majestic ring perched high atop a lake and bamboo meditation forests, this hotel is a remarkable fusion of East and West. Conceived by Marcell Wanders and YOO, its 91-rooms embody both the tale of moon festival tradition and contemporary design elements.

One of China's most incredible hotels, this architectural wonder was constructed within an abandoned quarry. Of its 19 stories - 17 are underground including two that lie underwater - over 10 years were needed to finish construction of this extraordinary structure.

Shanghai may appear futuristic at first glance, but beneath its skyscrapers you'll discover ancient streets and traditional Chinese hotels. Explore traditional courtyard homes, elegant palaces or luxury boutique hotels designed as works of art for an unforgettable stay in this fascinating city.