With a relaxed riverfront setting in Pudong’s new Harbour City development, this newcomer welcomes guests with a colorful glass mosaic by Chinese artist Miao Tong that stretches across its entire marble lobby; it’s one of 4,000 original artworks that jazz up the hotel’s soft-hued interiors. Well-considered details in the guest rooms extend to peony-embroidered silk bedspreads, Illy espresso machines, and bath potions by London perfumer Ormonde Jayne. The butterfly-themed spa is a highlight, offering TCM-inspired treatments alongside an arsenal of the latest-tech beauty machinery for non-surgical facelifts and electro-slimming. Two top chefs headline the dining program: Michelin-starred Richard Ekkebus oversees relaxed French steakhouse Fifty 8˚ Grill, while Yong Yi Ting serves up light-of-touch “south of the Yangtze” cuisine by Shanghainese chef Tony Lu. Making the most of the adjoining waterfront, guests can dine alfresco in lush gardens, join a Segway tour along the riverside promenade, or hop aboard a yacht for a sunset cruise.
11 Pudong Rd.; 86-21/2082-9888; Mandarin Oriental Pudong; doubles from US$392
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