The essence of Chinese opulence unfolds in two decadent destinations in Beijing: Beijing Hotel Nuo and Nuo Resort Hotel – Universal Beijing Resort
China boasts a vast and diverse landscape. However, it wasn’t until recently that many Chinese began to explore and appreciate the allure of their own country’s varied regions. With interstate travel becoming prevalent, the hospitality business has experienced a surge in demand, leading to increased competition and innovation in services to cater to the diverse needs of travellers. Fortunately for Beijing Hotel Nuo, a State Administration of Cultural Heritage protected building, it stands unmatched thanks to its rich history and prime location in the heart of the city’s cultural landscape.
Established in 1917, with countless luminaries gracing its rooms, it commands a prestigious address on Chang’an Avenue—standing proud through a century of boundless change. Encircling this historic luxury haven is a wealth of iconic landmarks, from Tiananmen Square to the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Forbidden City, which are visible from the hotel’s event spaces.
Entering the hotel, guests are transported back in time, surrounded by a captivating blend of French elegance and Chinese grandeur with sweeping marble staircases and a gleaming 1920s-style floor. The 191 suites are just as grand, each residing in buildings with distinct personalities: Building E – Deluxe Collection radiates timeless elegance with a cosmopolitan flair; Building C – Elite Collection integrates the regal elements of Chinese palaces with neo-Chinese-style interiors, offering a modern interpretation of imperial luxury; and Building B – Heritage Collection artfully harmonises Eastern and Western aesthetics, with rooms named after historical figures—such as George Bernard Shaw—who once stayed at the hotel.
Classic decor, antique and contemporary art showcases, and modern amenities such as a fitness centre and pool, combined with unparalleled service—including a private butler and limousine transport—enhance the regal allure.
Providing an ideal contrast to the fast-paced life of urban Beijing through a high-end, culturally immersive experience are the hotel’s two restaurants. East 33 boasts an exquisite selection of fresh, premium and seasonally curated Asian and Western dishes.
One of its specialities is a sweet and spicy chicken dish, rumoured to be based on a recipe from a guard during the Ming dynasty. Meanwhile, Writers Bar, which is inspired by the Palace of Versailles, invites guests to luxuriate in the timeless elegance of Beijing Hotel’s original drawing room. Under the soft glow of crystal chandeliers, framed by grand French windows and the rich patina of a polished 1920s wooden dance floor, Nuo’s Afternoon Tea, bespoke cocktails and refined French dining unfold in a setting steeped in history.
Universal Appeal
However, if you are more inclined to uninhibited fun, opt to stay at Nuo Resort Hotel. Located a mere 5-minute stroll from Universal Beijing Resort’s entrance, Nuo Resort Hotel blends the excitement of the park with the appeal of Chinese opulence. Like Beijing Hotel Nuo, its location, cultural references and features are its top attractions. In addition, every booking affords early admission to Universal Studios Beijing through a dedicated VIP entrance.
While the nearby Universal Studios Grand Hotel, just a stone’s throw from the theme park, entices with its coveted movie-themed rooms—including an exact replica of Gru’s lair from Despicable Me—the Nuo Resort Hotel offers a different allure, rooted in old-world glamour.
Upon entering, guests are enveloped in the grandeur of the Qing dynasty; every detail reflects a meticulous collaboration with feng shui masters. The design draws inspiration from the Old Summer Palace, or Yuanmingyuan, an imperial garden celebrated for its majestic landscapes and intricate architecture.
The entrance welcomes guests with traditional Chinese wood structural elements adorning the doorway. Upon entering the lobby, you are met with a breathtaking cloisonne mural—a masterpiece by national master artisans that depicts scenes from the Old Summer Palace’s iconic 40 Scenes.
The oriental design treatment extends across the 400 rooms, including the executive rooms, deluxe suites and the Nuo presidential suite. Each room is bathed in natural light and offers ample space, with the smallest starting at 50sqm. The bathrooms, which are also illuminated by daylight, provide a serene retreat and feature a traditional Nuo Pu-erh tea-making set, inviting guests to indulge in one of China’s most cherished traditions.
Dining is an experience in itself. Jia Restaurant, which is located on the first floor, takes guests on a culinary journey through authentic Cantonese cuisine, set against a backdrop of Qing dynasty-inspired decor. Private dining rooms, named after flowers found in the hotel’s garden, offer an intimate atmosphere. Signature dishes include slow-roasted chicken with black truffle sauce and braised beef ribs drizzled in sweet soya sauce.
Meanwhile, Café Royal serves as an all-day dining venue featuring a buffet with a variety of cuisines. For a relaxed atmosphere, the Lobby Lounge offers a serene space to enjoy a selection of China’s renowned teas, expertly curated by the hotel’s tea master. The private tearoom, nestled amid idyllic gardens, provides a quiet setting for an interactive tea ritual.
For fitness enthusiasts, the hotel comes with an indoor pool, a gym boasting Technogym equipment, and Nuo Spa where treatments draw inspiration from ancient Chinese medical philosophies to balance the body’s energy and spirit.
So, the next time you decide to visit Beijing and wish to immerse in all the historical and cultural riches that the city has to offer, the two Nuo properties promise to meet your needs. Whichever you choose, rest assured that a luxurious and authentic experience awaits.
Nuo Resort Hotel – Universal Beijing Resort
This story first appeared in the November 2024 issue. Purchase it as a print or digital copy, or consider subscribing to us here
