BEIJING ISSUE 130 Oct 2008

The Emperor is the first urban Design Hotels member in the People's Republic of China. It opened its doors with the aim of connecting modern design with traditional symbolism. The 55-room hotel is located adjacent to the former Imperial Palace of the Forbidden City, an acclaimed UNESCO world heritage site. Nestled in an old tree-lined avenue among traditional temples and houses, the hotel offers a tranquil respite from the hectic city pace of Beijing.

The all-day dining restaurant SHI features an integrated bar which at night transforms into a Beijing hotspot. Chef John Hao combines traditional Chinese elements with modern presentation, typified by the eight-specialty dishes on offer that are inspired by stories from Chinese Imperial history.

Serving innovative cocktails and a snack menu, YIN is one of the most breathtaking locations in Beijing. The bar is located on the roof of the hotel and offers unrivalled views of the Jingshan Hill pavilions and the Forbidden City palaces. The hotel spa and wellness area YUE, also located on the roof terrace, offers a reflection pool, two massage rooms, chill-out area and a fitness centre as part of its superb relaxation facilities.

The hotel's main meeting room accommodates 20 people and can even be used as a private event space. On the ground floor, private meeting spaces are interconnected with guest rooms. Exclusive events can also be held in the SHI restaurant within a private dining room that seats up to 15 guests.