ASIA & AUSTRALASIA

The Ritz-Carlton Debuts in Suzhou, Showcasing the Timeless Elegance and Rich Heritage of China’s Venice of the East

Blending Local Culture and Elegant Design, The Ritz-Carlton, Suzhou Elevates Luxury in One of China’s Most Culturally and Historically Rich Cities.

(Image Source)

Marriott International

The Ritz-Carlton today announced its highly anticipated debut in the historic city of Suzhou, nestled in China’s Jiangsu province near Shanghai. As the brand’s first venture into the city, The Ritz-Carlton, Suzhou introduces its legendary service, timeless elegance and immersive cultural experiences to the city’s scenic Gusu District, offering travelers seamless access to the rich history and dynamic charm of Suzhou.

“Suzhou, with its timeless gardens, classical canals, and centuries-old tradition of artistry and craftsmanship, offers an extraordinary setting for The Ritz-Carlton experience,” said Tina Edmundson, President of Luxury at Marriott International. “We are honored to invite guests to immerse themselves in the city’s poetic beauty and rich heritage, reimagined through our refined lens of luxury and legendary service.”

(Image Source)

Suzhou, often referred to as the “Venice of the East”, boasts a rich history spanning over a thousand years and is home to UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the ancient Grand Canal and the renowned Classical Gardens of Suzhou. Located in the heart of the city, The Ritz-Carlton, Suzhou is within a two-kilometer walking distance to renowned attractions such as the Lingering Garden, Xiyuan Temple, and Shantang Street. The hotel is also next to the city’s Metro Line and just three kilometers from Suzhou Railway Station, with high-speed rail access to popular destinations, including Shanghai, Xi’an, and Guangzhou, making it a convenient retreat for both leisure and business travelers.

Designed by the acclaimed KPF Architects, the hotel’s striking facade utilizes modern techniques to reinterpret traditional Suzhou elements of layered, blue-tiled roofs, folding fan screens, and the concept of negative spaces in Chinese paintings. The interiors, conceptualized by renowned architect Peter Remedios, pay homage to Suzhou’s storied silk trade and the iconic classical gardens. Neutral tones set a serene backdrop, accentuating the contrast of white walls and black tiles, while intricate lattice windows and silk-inspired motifs weave a refined narrative throughout. The result is an understated elegance that harmoniously reflects the city’s rich heritage.

The hotel features 190 spacious guest rooms and suites, including 57 luxurious suites of 86-square meters. Each room takes inspiration from the minimalist Suzhou architecture of crisp black lines on white, defining shapes and silhouettes in its utmost simplicity. This modern Chinese aesthetic is further enhanced by traditional embroideries that depict bridges over streams, creating an immersive sense of place. The Ritz-Carlton Suite, spanning 306-square meters, offers an open terrace with panoramic views of the lush Gusu cityscape and Suzhou’s iconic gardens. Guests staying in Club Level rooms and suites will be able to enjoy access to the signature Ritz-Carlton Club, an exclusive and intimate space that offers an atmosphere of privacy and sophistication, where cultural immersions including Su Embroidery sessions, Suzhou tea masterclasses, and traditional fan workshop will be held.

(Image Source)

The hotel’s four restaurants and bars blend The Ritz-Carlton’s culinary craftsmanship with the region’s vibrant food culture. Alkanna, the hotel’s specialty restaurant, serves modern bistro fare alongside a boutique à la carte menu and a selection of oven-grilled steaks. The Alkanna Bar offers an extensive wine collection and a unique cocktail menu featuring herbal-based specialties. Additionally, Feng Pan Ting, a Chinese tea lounge, showcases Suzhou’s famous tea culture, offering performances by tea masters and an array of authentic local delicacies. Biao Xia, the Chinese restaurant, offers Huaiyang cuisine exquisitely crafted from fresh, locally sourced ingredients, capturing the spirit of the destination.

Accompanying each stay are personalized interpretations of the city’s cultural experiences. Guests can have the opportunity to join in various activities, including the signature Ritz Kids program, traditional tea master performances, and a unique local tradition of toasting with Huangjiu, a Chinese rice wine often enjoyed marking life’s special moments. Each evening, creative tea-infused beverages are also served in the lobby, offering a warm and immersive way for guests to connect with the destination.

Additional facilities include a 24-hour fitness center with state-of-the-art equipment as well as a 143m² swimming pool. For intimate gatherings, celebrations, or corporate functions, the hotel provides four well-appointed event spaces, including a spacious 508-square-meter grand ballroom, three versatile multi-functional meeting rooms, and a charming outdoor venue in the style of Suzhou’s classical gardens.  

(Image Source)

“The Ritz-Carlton, Suzhou stands as the crown jewel of the city’s China Central Place, and sets to become a vibrant hub for commerce, culture, and social life,” said Nicolas Kassab, General Manager, The Ritz-Carlton, Suzhou. “We aim to provide guests with a distinctive experience that reflects the luxury and heritage of Suzhou while also contributing to the city’s vibrant cultural and hospitality landscape.”

Source: Marriott