Alila Shanghai has officially opened its doors, offering a harmonious blend of cultural richness. The property overlooks and provides exclusive private access to Zhangyuan, a complex of restored shikumen stone-gate townhouses that have been transformed into luxury retail spaces on West Nanjing Road. It is home to 13 historical buildings, 24 district cultural protection sites, and 5 planned preserved buildings.
Hotel Entrance of Alila Shanghai
A tree-lined driveway leads to the entrance. As you step inside, dry stone walls and vaulted ceilings give way to a beautifully landscaped garden oasis on the fourth-floor lobby. Under the creative direction of Ju Bin, Alila Shanghai artfully balances the spirit of old Shanghai with a fresh, contemporary vibe. The interiors reflect this harmony, where raw, natural materials like roughly hewn stone, timber marquetry, rattan detailing, and paper louvres intertwine with subtle nods to Shanghai’s traditional style. These rich textures, combined with neutral tones and pockets of lush greenery, create an atmosphere that feels comfortably warm and inviting. It’s the kind of space where history and modernity meet and quietly coexist.
Hotel Front Desk
Here, a picturesque lake and creatively placed pathways frame a towering ‘Gathering’ tree installation by local artist Oscar Wang, establishing a tone of calm that’s easy to sink into. The sculpture celebrates nature’s core elements—metal, wood, water, fire, and earth—distilled into an exquisite artistic form.
“A tree has been a symbol of vitality, sustainability, and hope. As we live in a fragmented big data era, bounded by too many things, the fast-paced work and lifestyle causes us to forget the most original state we should be in,” shared Oscar Wang. “I created a tree and I hope through this work, I can awaken people to remember our most comfortable and natural state. Slow down your pace, look at the people around you, whether it’s your family, your lover, or friends, see that you spend more time with them and appreciate the time you spend together.”
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The central trunk and branches, crafted from sleek polished silver, symbolise both strength and refinement. Fire and earth are represented in the sculpture’s leaves, made from a blend of ceramic and steel. Subtle lighting embedded within the artwork adjusts in brightness and hue, creating a rhythmic pulse that gives the tree a dynamic, living presence as if it vibrates with energy.
A total of 186 guest rooms and suites are thoughtfully designed retreats that draw inspiration from the city’s architectural heritage. Warm textures, Shanghai-inspired details, and spacious layouts create a luxurious environment. Entry-level rooms measure 419 square feet and feature a generous lounge area, a walk-in wardrobe, and a bar nook.
For those seeking something truly special, the Penthouse Suite King on the 37th floor delivers breathtaking views of the Shanghai skyline, complemented by a marble bathroom and an elegant elliptical bath.int
Hotel Library
With five treatment rooms, a Turkish bath, and a dedicated relaxation space, guests can indulge in rituals that feel intimate and revitalising. Fitness facilities, including state-of-the-art equipment, a private yoga room, and cultural workshops with local artisans round out the hotel’s wellness offerings, ensuring that there’s something to nourish every sense. Guests can partake in unique programming that connects them with rich intangible cultural heritage, like traditional tea ceremonies or calligraphy classes.
Helmed by Executive Chef Chuck Xing, the four innovative bars and restaurants at Alila Shanghai present a diverse array of wellness-oriented culinary experiences. The restaurants adhere to a ‘farm-to-table’ philosophy, sourcing fresh, seasonal, and sustainable produce—organic where possible. Accompanying wine lists feature selections from boutique vintners.
500 Weihai Road, the hotel’s flagship restaurant led by Chef de Cuisine Scott Bao, highlights modern Shanghainese cuisine crafted from the freshest seasonal produce, much of it grown in the hotel’s garden.
The Garden Pavilion, framed by a stunning Japanese maple, provides a relaxed setting where breakfast is served à la carte, moving away from the typical buffet. For those who appreciate the art of slowing down, Chayan @ 5th offers an afternoon tea experience that celebrates Shanghai’s flavours and culinary heritage in a cosy, residential-style space.
As day turns to night, Secret Roof transforms into a sought-after destination for expertly crafted cocktails, inviting guests to unwind with panoramic views over Zhangyuan.
