The new Waldorf Astoria Shanghai Qiantan, with its futuristic facade, is situated in one of the city’s most stylish areas – and is Hilton’s 888th property in China
The Bund – the waterfront area facing the Huangpu River – is home to some of Shanghai’s most prestigious hotels, including Waldorf Astoria Shanghai on the Bund, housed in a heritage Renaissance-style structure dating back to the early 20th century.
With its sweeping views of Shanghai’s futuristic skyline across the river and colonial buildings dotting its charming streets, the area is a popular place to stay, especially for first-time visitors to the city. It is also relatively close to the French Concession and Jing’An, where glitzy malls and leafy boulevards attract hordes of stylish locals and tourists.
In recent years, the local government has started to revitalise riverfront areas further from the Bund, turning previously neglected stretches of land into modern mixed-use developments. Qiantan, also known as “New Bund”, is one of these new districts.
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A view of the surrounding greenery and Huangpu River from the Waldorf Astoria Shanghai Qiantan. Photo: Handout
Located in Pudong along the Huangpu River, Qiantan couldn’t be more different from the buzzier and more chaotic parts of the city. Upscale residential high-rises, corporate glass towers, high-end malls and waterfront parks are reminiscent of developments in cities such as Shenzhen and Singapore. The area is also home to a couple of luxury hotels. The most recent addition to its hospitality scene is the Waldorf Astoria Shanghai Qiantan, which opened late last year in a striking riverfront building that recalls a cruise ship at sea.
In a good omen for those who believe in Chinese numerology, the hotel is the 888th property opened in China by Hilton, Waldorf Astoria’s parent company (eight is a lucky number in Chinese culture). Astrology aside, the hotel is a fitting counterpart to its older sibling across the river. Conceived by Hong Kong-based Cheng Chung Design, the interiors make the most of the property’s surrounding environment. Glass panels and floor-to-ceiling windows create a soothing ambience with plenty of natural light and panoramic views of the flowing river. Meanwhile, veined marble with touches of gold give the common areas a refined elegance.
A soaring marble staircase on the ground floor. Photo: Handout
The interiors nod to the storied legacy of Waldorf Astoria, with elements such as soaring staircases, long corridors, lavish flower arrangements and a clock that pays homage to the one in the brand’s iconic New York property, but it’s all reinterpreted through a contemporary lens. The 204 guest rooms and suites are intimate riverfront retreats. Almost every type of accommodation comes with outdoor terraces overlooking the river as well as sitting areas to unwind after exploring the city.
A bedroom overlooking the river and greenery. Photo: Handout
Just outside the hotel, the waterfront park is perfect for a morning or sunset walk. On weekends, it is popular with young families, fitness enthusiasts and residents walking their dogs or enjoying a picnic. Taikoo Li Qiantan, a high-end mall nearby, features both western fashion houses and multi-brand boutiques worth checking out.
