No. 01
99 Madang Road. SHANGHAI China 200021Shanghai1370 verified reviews
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Secret Gardens: Shikumen Sanctuaries in the French Concession
Shanghai is a city of dizzying contrasts, but nowhere is this more palpable than in the former French Concession. Here, beneath the canopy of century-old London plane trees, lies a world apart from the futuristic skyline of Lujiazui. Our curated collection, 'Secret Gardens,' invites you to step behind the heavy wooden doors of restored Shikumen lanes and historic villas. From the all-villa urban resort of Capella Shanghai, Jian Ye Li to the sprawling lawns of the InterContinental Shanghai Ruijin, these properties offer a rare commodity in this metropolis: silence. Explore the leafy avenues of the Xuhui District and the stylish lanes of Xintiandi, where heritage architecture meets modern luxury in perfect harmony.
Why Choose Shanghai for Secret Gardens: Shikumen Sanctuaries in the French Concession?
Staying in the former French Concession (FFC) offers a narrative that transcends a typical hotel visit. It is an immersion into the 'Haipai' culture—the unique East-meets-West aesthetic that defines Shanghai. Choosing a property from our 'Secret Gardens' collection means trading the glass-and-steel skyscrapers for red brick, Shikumen lintels, and private courtyards. Hotels like The Langham, Shanghai, Xintiandi and The Middle House bridge the gap between heritage and contemporary design, offering sanctuaries where the chaotic energy of the city is filtered through lush greenery and tranquil water features. This is the ideal choice for travelers seeking history, romance, and uncompromised privacy.
Top Areas to Stay
- Hengshan Road & Xuhui: The heart of the FFC. Home to the HUALUXE Shanghai Twelve at Hengshan and the majestic Okura Garden Hotel Shanghai, this area is defined by its unending canopy of plane trees and historic villas.
- Xintiandi: A masterclass in urban revitalization. Here, the traditional Shikumen housing has been reimagined as a luxury lifestyle hub. Capella Shanghai, Jian Ye Li offers the most authentic Shikumen villa experience, while properties like The Langham provide immediate access to high-end dining and fashion.
- Xing Guo & Ruijin: For those prioritizing expansive gardens. The Radisson Collection Hotel, Xing Guo Shanghai and InterContinental Shanghai Ruijin sit within massive proprietary gardens that feel like private parks.
What to Expect
Expect a juxtaposition of the old and the new. While the exteriors may whisper tales of the 1930s, interiors are equipped with state-of-the-art technology and luxury amenities. At The PuLi Hotel and Spa, expect an 'urban resort' vibe where bamboo groves separate you from the street. Service in these sanctuaries is often more personalized, with many offering butler services to complement the intimate scale of the properties. Be prepared for a slower pace of life within the hotel grounds, perfect for afternoon tea in a sun-drenched courtyard, contrasting with the vibrant nightlife just outside your gates.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q.What defines a Shikumen hotel in Shanghai?
Shikumen hotels, like Capella Shanghai Jian Ye Li, feature traditional Shanghainese architecture blending Western and Chinese elements, characterized by stone gate frames, narrow alleys, and private courtyards.
Q.Which hotels in the French Concession have the best gardens?
The InterContinental Shanghai Ruijin and Okura Garden Hotel Shanghai are renowned for their expansive, park-like historic gardens located directly within the city center.
Q.Is the French Concession a good area for luxury travelers?
Yes, it is arguably the best area for luxury travelers seeking culture and quiet. It offers high-end boutiques, Michelin-starred dining, and properties like The Middle House and The PuLi.
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