88 Xintiandi

Shanghai’s French Concession district is an urban identity crisis on a grand scale. The architecture zips through twentieth-century touchstones, from Art Deco theaters to Tudor-style manors to traditional shikumen residences. This eclectic atmosphere has made the neighborhood a magnet for expats, and breakneck redevelopment has given rise to more than a few generic hotels. Fortunately, 88 Xintiandi bucks the trend — this is a hotel that’s steeped in the city’s history, in a place where many traditional Chinese elements have been scrubbed away.

At 53 rooms, 88 Xintiandi’s modest size begets the kind of intimacy that only a small-scale hotel can offer. Lacquered wooden screens and gauzy curtains stand in for interior partitions and walls, lending an airy residential atmosphere to the guest rooms. But don’t expect folksy hospitality or laid-back whimsy — this is an urban boutique through and through, where the traditional tea ceremony exists alongside flat screen TVs. Private balconies are standard throughout, and prove to be a welcome inclusion — the rooms strike a delicate balance between modern diversions and classic style, but the views of the city and nearby Taipingqiao Lake are timeless.

And when it comes to the bells and whistles, 88 Xintiandi punches well above its weight; the adjacent big-sister property, Langham Xintiandi, offers access to its resort-style spa, fitness center and restaurants. But really, there’s no reason to feel cooped up when your hotel is situated in the heart of such an affecting and memorable section of the biggest city in China. Just step outside and lose yourself in the hodgepodge of languages, cuisines and styles.

• 53 Rooms
• Style: Contemporary Classic
• Atmosphere: Lively

Tweet