Hilton doubles down, second Waldorf Astoria opened in Shanghai
Hilton expands its presence in the luxury segment with the opening of the Waldorf Astoria Shanghai Qiantan, the brand's second address [...]
China
Hilton expands its presence in the luxury segment with the opening of the Waldorf Astoria Shanghai Qiantan, the brand's second address in the Chinese metropolis and fifth in the country. Located along the new Bund in the bustling Qiantan district, the new hotel overlooks the Huangpu River right across from the already famous Waldorf Astoria Shanghai on the Bund.
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With this opening, Shanghai becomes the Third city in the world to host two Waldorf Astoria properties, a clear signal of the group's long-term vision in the Chinese luxury market.
An oasis on the river in the heart of the city
The new Waldorf Astoria Shanghai Qiantan is designed as a urban retreat surrounded by nature, just minutes from the pulsating city center. Guests enjoy panoramic river views, direct access to Qiantan Parks and a promenade overlooking the water. It is the kind of hotel that promises to "disconnect without disconnecting"-the pace slows down, but the city remains at your fingertips.
Alan Watts, president Hilton Asia Pacific, stressed that "Shanghai remains one of the most dynamic and international cities in Asia" and that this new address "represents confidence in the future of luxury travel in China."
A legacy that is renewed
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2025 is a symbolic year for the brand: it also marks the reopening of the legendary Waldorf Astoria New York, referred to by Conrad Hilton as "The Greatest of Them All." The brand's Asian history, however, starts in Shanghai itself, where it opened the region's first Waldorf Astoria in 2010. Since then, the Chinese collection has grown to include. Beijing, Chengdu, Xiamen and now Qiantan.
Dino Michael, senior vice president for Hilton luxury brands, called Shanghai "a city of dualities, historic yet forward-looking, refined yet full of energy," and explained that each Waldorf Astoria "is not just architecture or design, but a place capable of moving emotions."
Luxury on the riverfront
The hotel reinterprets Shanghai's Art Deco heritage in a modern way. The atmosphere is that of a elegant and contemporary retreat, where Chinese craftsmanship dialogues with Western aesthetics.
Le 204 rooms and suites start at 52 m² and offer panoramic skyline or river views, private terraces and, in some suites, even outdoor jacuzzi. The interiors are meticulous in every detail, from the motifs inspired by the peacock - the brand's iconic symbol - to the nautical reminders of the location on the water.
Gastronomy and signature mixology
As in every Waldorf Astoria, the kitchen is an integral part of the experience.
- Arame offers modern European-inspired dishes with local ingredients and a strong focus on technique.
- Fu Cheng, led by Michelin-starred chef Justin Yang, pays homage to Min cuisine with the highest quality ingredients and off-menu creations accompanied by fine tea pairings.
- La Starlight Room is instead an exclusive experience: a chef's table with an open kitchen and private terrace overlooking the river.
At the heart of the hotel is the Peacock Alley, the spiritual heir to the legendary Waldorf Astoria New York lounge. It is an environment designed to meet, relax, and enjoy cocktails and desserts prepared live in dedicated spaces surrounded by large windows overlooking the greenery and the river.
Wellness, art and time for oneself
The new Waldorf Astoria is not just a hotel, but a true regeneration experience. The 25-meter indoor pool with skylight and river view, the spa with four private rooms, and the 24-hour fitness center create a balance of energy and calm.
Outside, guests find paths for running or cycling along the river, as well as sessions of sunrise yoga and evening meditation.
The Qiantan district is also a emerging cultural hub: Within walking distance are the West Bund Art Museum, Tank Shanghai and the Long Museum, as well as the new Qiantan Taikoo Li shopping complex. Everything contributes to making the Waldorf Astoria Qiantan a meeting point between culture, lifestyle and wellness, where each stay becomes an inner journey.
In conclusion
With the new Waldorf Astoria Shanghai Qiantan, Hilton consolidates its presence in the heart of China with a clear vision: Timeless luxury, yet in tune with modern big-city life.
For those who love Shanghai-and the great hotels that can tell its story-it is a must-see.
