Mandarin Oriental Qianmen

Mandarin Oriental Qianmen, Beijing, is a remarkable luxury property within the historic Caochang hutong neighbourhood. Unlike a traditional hotel block, it consists of just 42 exquisitely restored and designed courtyard houses (siheyuan) scattered across several ancient alleyways. This "scattered hotel" concept, akin to Italy's alberghi diffusi, provides a truly immersive cultural experience, as guests live alongside local residents whose families have inhabited the area for centuries.

While buggies are available to whisk you between facilities, the best way to enjoy the hotel is to walk the narrow alleyways on foot. This is where you encounter the genuine, daily life of the community, which is the heart of the hotel's unique appeal.

Each spacious courtyard house, starting from 110 sqm, features a private courtyard garden, floor-to-ceiling windows, and elegant interiors that blend traditional Chinese architecture (like preserved timber ceilings and blue-brick walls) with contemporary luxury. Amenities include plush 600-thread-count linens and marble bathrooms with products from Editions de Parfum Frederic Malle. Dining options include Yan Garden for superb Cantonese cuisine by Michelin-starred Chef Fei, the Italian bistro VICINI, and the trendy two-story bar TIAO.