Alila Shanghai, a captivating new urban retreat, has officially opened its doors in the heart of Shanghai’s bustling Jing’an district. This stunning property offers guests an exclusive experience, blending traditional Shanghai style with modern elegance while providing private access to Zhangyuan, a complex of beautifully restored shikumen stone-gate townhouses transformed into luxury retail spaces.
Designed by renowned interior designer Ju Bin, Alila Shanghai seamlessly weaves together the rich cultural heritage of the city with contemporary design elements, creating a haven of understated sophistication. Guests are welcomed into a world of tactile natural materials, including roughly hewn stone, timber marquetry, rattan detailing, and paper louvers, all complemented by a neutral color palette and lush greenery. This design approach aims to transport visitors to a luxurious, nature-infused sanctuary.
As guests arrive at Alila Shanghai, they are immediately enveloped in tranquility, transitioning from the city’s energy to a serene environment. A canopy of trees frames the driveway, bordered by dry stone walls, leading to a tranquil resort-style entrance featuring a soothing water wall, cobblestone paving, and a barrel-vaulted rattan-like ceiling. Upon reaching the lobby floor (Level 4), guests are greeted by a landscaped oasis inspired by Shanghai’s classical gardens. The lobby features a series of open spaces and pathways surrounding a serene lake, highlighted by a striking 17-foot-high ‘Gathering’ tree adorned with stainless steel and Jingdezhen ceramic leaves, created by local artist Oscar Wang.
Alila Shanghai’s Spa Alila invites guests to unwind and rejuvenate with customized holistic treatments inspired by the healing properties of nature. Featuring five treatment rooms, a Turkish bath, and a calming relaxation area, spa-goers can indulge in signature treatments that utilize all-natural ingredients. To further enhance the wellness experience, guests have access to premium fitness facilities, an individual yoga room, and unique programming designed to connect them with Shanghai’s rich cultural heritage through collaborations with local artisans.
The hotel boasts 186 guest rooms, including 94 suites, each incorporating natural finishes and textures. The design features Shanghai-inspired details, such as textured glass resembling vintage window frames and bold flooring influenced by tiles from historic mansions. Spacious entry-level rooms, measuring 419 square feet, include a generous lounge area, a walk-in wardrobe, a bar nook, and a dressing table. For the ultimate indulgence, guests can opt for the 2,626-square-foot Penthouse Suite King, located on the 37th floor, offering breathtaking views of the Shanghai skyline along with an opulent marble-lined bathroom complete with an elliptical bath.
Under the guidance of Executive Chef Chuck Xing, Alila Shanghai features four innovative bars and restaurants that offer a range of wellness-oriented culinary experiences, showcasing authentic local flavors. The restaurants embrace a ‘farm-to-table’ philosophy, prioritizing fresh, seasonal, and sustainable produce—organic where possible—while the wine lists highlight selections from boutique vintners. Each dining venue celebrates local culinary traditions and the people behind them, delivering a creative and memorable experience while honoring the region’s heritage.
The hotel’s flagship Chinese restaurant, 500 Weihai Road, is helmed by Chef de Cuisine Scott Bao, previously from the Michelin-recommended 28 Hubin Road at Grand Hyatt Hangzhou. Chef Bao and his team specialize in plant-forward dishes utilizing vegetables from the hotel’s garden, along with modern Shanghainese cuisine focusing on seafood. Garden Pavilion, the hotel’s all-day dining venue, is designed around a beautiful Japanese maple tree. For breakfast, guests can choose from curated sets featuring Chinese, Japanese, Western, or healthy options, moving away from the traditional buffet model to reduce food waste and promote mindful eating.
Chayan @ 5th offers a series of residential-style living spaces that serve as a sanctuary for guests to unwind and connect. Here, they can indulge in exquisite afternoon tea that celebrates Shanghai’s culinary heritage and highlights the region’s unique offerings. Secret Roof aims to become Shanghai’s premier destination for exceptional cocktails and stunning sunset views. Surrounded by open-air terraces, guests can enjoy breathtaking views of the historic Zhangyuan rooftops, while the bar also serves expertly brewed organic coffee and light snacks during the day.
Alila Shanghai features a total of 3,282 square feet of versatile meeting space, suitable for various occasions, from intimate meetings to gala events and cocktail parties. The hotel’s exceptional venue options—including an open-air terrace and five elegant function rooms with ample natural light—are perfect for professional meeting organizers.
To celebrate the opening of the first Urban Alila Resort-style hotel in Greater China, World of Hyatt is offering members additional rewards. From September 25, 2024, to December 31, 2024, members can earn 500 Bonus Points for qualifying nights at Alila Shanghai, enhancing the overall guest experience and encouraging exploration of this stunning new destination.
