The Peninsula Hotel, Beijing

The Peninsula was one of the first luxury hotels to open in Beijing China and is still the epitome of class in a city that’s constantly changing. It was 1989, a year that ushered back the Western style hotel to China’s capital. This modern hotel tower rises out of a traditional Chinese architectural structure. Centrally located on Goldfish Lane off Wangfujing Street, it’s within easy walking distance to Tiananmen Square and the Forbidden City as well as other popular tourist attractions.

When you arrive, you’re greeted by the hotel’s signature bellboys dressed in full white regalia including cap and gloves, who are at the ready to eagerly push the lobby’s revolving door for you. In front, a staircase resembling a bridge leads to the gym and full service spa while luxury boutiques, forty-two in all, line the perimeter and continue down two levels. Fashion names include Chanel, Hermes, Louis Vuitton, Prada, and Tom Ford and jewelers like Harry Winston, Graff, and Tiffany. The Peninsula’s arcade was one of the first shopping centers of its kind to open after China reemerged in the late 80s and the black marble lobby is the ultimate in decoration, setting the tone for the experience.

Also in the lobby, you can view a permanent art show entitled “The Peninsula Art Journey,” a program which gives Chinese contemporary artists an opportunity to exhibit their work in a unique architectural setting that complements the hotel’s design aesthetic.

Spacious, elegant accommodations are designed in earth tones infusing each with a comfortable ambience. Streamlined furnishings have subtly simple lines that reflect traditional Chinese artistry but with a contemporary twist. Opt for a Duplex Suite with a large marble bath that includes both a tub and separate walk-in shower.

The property offers several dining options including Huang Ting, a Chinese restaurant on the lower level featuring exquisitely prepared Cantonese dishes. Based on a traditional nobleman’s house, Huang Ting recreates a genuine ‘hutong’ ambience and is adorned with antiques dating back to the Qing dynasty. Decorated in woods and bamboo, its atmosphere contrasts sharply with the rest of the hotels modernity. Be sure to order the Peking Duck, a local specialty.

Alternately, opt to dine at Jing, offering western style cuisine with a touch of Asia. The restaurant’s open kitchen turns out grilled meats, rotisserie chicken and various pasta entrees along with traditional Chinese dishes like noodle soup with cod. Jing boasts a large wine list (with the cellar visible to guests in the front) and a dessert buffet with too many options all beautifully displayed. Like the food, the setting is very modern, kind’ve an east meets west ambience with white masonry walls and tables enclosed with glass partitions.

The Peninsula Beijing also has a full spa on site where traditional Chinese healing elements blend with more modern treatments. Treatments range from relaxing therapies to typical Scandinavian spa therapies like thermal suites, steam rooms, ice fountains, and lifestyle showers to stimulate and revive the body. Also in the spa is a fitness center containing the latest Life Fitness equipment and a heated swimming pool.

Beijing is a huge metropolis and whether you’re visiting for work or pleasure, The Peninsula is an oasis in the city offering a bit of old China with modern amenities.