Jing An Shangri-La, Shanghai

Inspired by the idyllic paradise depicted in "Lost Horizon," Shangri-La set out from Asia and embraced the warm, refined philosophy of Chinese hospitality, gradually winning the hearts of guests worldwide. As early as the 1970s, Shangri-La had plans to establish a presence at the Bund in Shanghai. While that vision did not materialize at the time, the brand eventually entered the Shanghai market with its first property at Shanghai Centre. This was followed by the openings of Pudong Shangri-La, Jing An Shangri-La, Qiantan Shangri-La, and Hongqiao Airport Shangri-La. Together, these hotels have become integral to the evolution of Shanghai’s hospitality landscape. Located in the heart of West Bank of Yangtze River, Jing An Shangri-La Shanghai is the brand’s second property in the city. This urban sanctuary stands atop the Jing An Kerry Centre, and its striking silhouette often catches the eye of those passing by on the Yan’an Elevated Road. Soaring above the clouds, it offers sweeping views of the city’s skyline. As one of the flagship properties in mainland China, my recent short stay in Shanghai finally gave me the opportunity to experience it firsthand. While the design of Jing An Shangri-La may not aim to dazzle, it exudes a sense of timeless elegance through its attention to detail. Having opened in 2013, the hotel still showcases thoughtful material selection and meticulous maintenance even after more than a decade. It retains Shangri-La’s signature understated sophistication while incorporating a more contemporary lightness, thanks to HBA’s design touches. The overall atmosphere remains comforting and reassuring. It is perhaps these subtle balances that form the foundation of the hotel’s enduring appeal. Situated in the city’s core, it boasts unobstructed views and is supported by the well-established Kerry Centre, which offers comprehensive amenities, high-end meeting facilities, and efficient operational capabilities. From the very beginning, the hotel has cemented its status as an irreplaceable business landmark. With its solid hardware, consistent quality, and deep understanding of business travelers’ needs, it continues to attract a steady stream of guests. It may not be the most profitable hotel in China, but it is said to be one of the most financially successful properties within the Shangri-La group. Without relying on marketing gimmicks or chasing trends, it stands quietly high above Jing An, securely ensuring its lasting success.