5 Boutique Hotels To Enjoy In China

Until recently ’boutique’ was not really a concept that had taken off in China – hoteliers wanted to pack as many rooms into the space they had, and were all too keen on the usual western hotel brands. That’s all changed in the last few years, with Beijing and Shanghai in particular seeing an explosion of stunning boutique options. Here are five of our favourites.

The Orchid, Beijing

This small hotel has just ten rooms and is located near the Bell and Drum towers. Built in a traditional style in one of Beijing’s hutongs (traditional narrow streets that are fast being destroyed), The Orchid is great value and offers visitors a “full on upgrade to their China experience”.

Opposite House, Beijing

Located in the embassy district of Beijing, The Opposite House is for those who like their hotels to be all about the design. A striking emerald green glass exterior gives way to an airy and light atrium inside, with well sized natural wood rooms. This hotel is all about mixing old and new in dramatic yet luxurious fashion.

Laomadian Centre, Shaxi, Yunnan

Located in the small village of Shaxi, the Laomadian Centre is more of a guesthouse than a boutique hotel. Nevertheless it’s one of our favourites, offering simple Chinese style rooms at decent prices, in one of the prettiest villages in China.

URBN, Shanghai

Billing itself as ‘China’s first carbon neutral hotel’, URBN is close to Shanghai’s French Concession. Built entirely of reclaimed and recycled materials, rooms are well designed, feeling both modern and cosy at the same time.

Linden Centre, near Dali, Yunnan

Dali is centre to the Bai minority, and the Linden Centre has been converted from a traditional Bai courtyard house. The hotel is situated in a small village, so a stay here offers a taste of rural Chinese life. The rooftop terraces offer views over the surrounding fields, and there’s a lively market in the village on most days.

Make it happen

A stay at any of these hotels can be arranged by our local travel partners in China. See our China destination page for more information. All trips created by our local travel companies are 100% bespoke and unique to you.