Hong Kong-based Shangri-La Hotels and Resorts is to unveil a new property in August in the centre of Qufu in southwestern China.
Shangri-La Hotel, Qufu will pay homage to philosopher Confucius and will be within walking distance of the Temple of Confucius, the Mansion of Confucius and the Cemetery of Confucius, all three are UNESCO World Heritage Cultural Sites.
Located in Shandong Province, the resort will feature 211 guestrooms with balconies facing the Yi River.
The groups signature CHI, The Spa at Shangri-La will offer guests a place of peace, enchantment and wellbeing.
CHI features a range of massages, spa treatments and facial therapies based on Asian healing traditions and philosophies.
The spa is based on the traditional Chinese philosophy that ch'i or "Qi" is the universal life force that governs well-being and personal vitality. For good health to be maintained, it is believed that ch'i must flow freely within the body and, when blocked, "dis-ease" and illness follow.
Movement is therefore a key element in the spa treatments to release blockages. Body massage, exercise, stretching, hydrotherapy, and movement of the mind through relaxation and meditation are all combined in therapies available at the facility.
The resort will also house a health club featuring a 25-m indoor heated swimming pool, children’s pool, outdoor tennis court and a fully-equipped gym. Sauna and spa pools will also be on offer.
The hotels design focuses are blending Confucian principles, Chinese traditions and contemporary style to reflect Qufu's history with a modern twist.
Chinese architecture sets the tone, with the hotel's façade designed to resemble a traditional Chinese pavilion.
The signature restaurant, Shang Palace will serve authentic Cantonese, Shandong regional Lu and re-imagined Kong Family cuisines.
The restaurant's interior will be decorated in shades of muted gold, dark wood and deep orange, a blend of contemporary and classic Chinese design. The main dining area will be separated from five private dining rooms by glass panelling depicting Chinese watercolour paintings.
The hotel will also features Café Kong, an all-day casual dining venue serving international dishes cooked in open kitchens, and the Lobby Lounge, which will offer an extensive tea menu.
Other venues include the hotel's 1,600 sq m (17,222sq ft) pillar-free Qilu Grand Ballroom with an outdoor terrace connected to the ballroom foyer; six additional function rooms, a bridal room and the Hall of Wisdom VIP room.
