Aman Summer Palace
Beijing

Aman Summer Palace is one of Ampersand's Top 10 Aman Resorts in Asia and our Top 10 Hotel Spas.

China’s capital offers many exciting faces to explore, a kaleidoscope of history, culture and modernity, and at the heart of its heritage is the magnificent UNESCO protected Summer Palace, a beautiful garden estate dotted with pavilions and pagodas around Kunming Lake. Just a few steps away from this iconic structure lies Aman Summer Palace. This hotel is a killer combination of old and new China: Aman’s trademark understated cool vibe, coupled with the unique opportunity to stay in a series palace pavilions which date back over a century.

The hotel comprises of 51 guestrooms and suites which are individual buildings designed in the traditional Chinese style around a series of courtyards. Whilst every modern comfort has been provided, the design embraces Imperial Chinese layouts, materials and fabrics, featuring king-size four-poster beds with beautiful furniture inspired by the Ming dynasty, polished Jin clay tiled floors, and the ceilings are mostly open to exposed wooden beams and supported by wood columns. Some of these buildings date back to 1750, when the original complex was used by guests of the Summer Palace awaiting an audience with the Empress Dowager Cixi at the turn of the 20th century. We love this hotel’s its sense of history! And there is a hidden private access point which leads directly to the Summer Palace through a secret and unassuming door at the back of the hotel – just enchanting!

The food at Aman Summer Palace is fantastic, offering an extensive selection of dining options. The Chinese Restaurant serves a well-adapted menu of delicacies from China’s vast and varied gastronomic kitchen; The Grill specialises in grilled-to-order prime cuts of meat and fresh seafood; a Japanese venue serves exquisite sushi and sashimi; and light refreshments are available in the Lounge, whilst The Reflection Pavilion provides a peaceful terrace overlooking a lotus pond.

There is also an expansive Aman Spa and a knock out underground heated swimming pool (quite possibly the sexiest pool in China!). Fun activities for the guests include a tea ceremony and a calligraphy class, which are real highlights. The hotel's location being close to the airport, 15 kilometres from the Forbidden City and 45 minutes closer to the Great Wall than the city hotels is also a big plus.

I dislike feeling at home when I am abroad.
George Bernard Shaw