THE RITZ-CARLTON DEBUTS IN SUZHOU, SHOWCASING THE TIMELESS ELEGANCE AND RICH HERITAGE OF CHINA'S VENICE OF THE EAST

Rhea-AI Summary

The Ritz-Carlton has announced its debut in Suzhou, China, marking its first venture into this historic city near Shanghai. Located in the Gusu District, the new hotel features 190 guest rooms, including 57 luxurious suites, positioned within walking distance to UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

The property, designed by KPF Architects with interiors by Peter Remedios, showcases modern interpretations of traditional Suzhou elements. The hotel offers three distinctive restaurants: Alkanna for modern bistro fare, Feng Pan Ting for tea culture, and Biao Xia for Huaiyang cuisine. Facilities include a 508-square-meter grand ballroom, three meeting rooms, a 24-hour fitness center, and an indoor swimming pool.

The hotel's strategic location, just three kilometers from Suzhou Railway Station with high-speed rail access, caters to both leisure and business travelers. The property features The Ritz-Carlton Club, exclusive amenities, and cultural experiences including traditional tea master performances and the Ritz Kids program.

Positive

• Strategic expansion into luxury market in Greater China
• Prime location near UNESCO sites and transportation hubs
• Diverse revenue streams from rooms, dining, and event spaces

Negative

• None.

Blending Local Culture and Elegant Design, The Ritz-Carlton, Suzhou Elevates Luxury in One of China's Most Culturally and Historically Rich Cities

SUZHOU, China, March 18, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- The Ritz-Carlton today announced its highly anticipated debut in the historic city of Suzhou, nestled in China's Jiangsu province near Shanghai. As the brand's first venture into the city, The Ritz-Carlton, Suzhou introduces its legendary service, timeless elegance and immersive cultural experiences to the city's scenic Gusu District, offering travelers seamless access to the rich history and dynamic charm of Suzhou.

"The debut of The Ritz-Carlton in Suzhou marks a significant milestone in our commitment to expanding luxury hospitality across Greater China," said Bart Buiring, Managing Director, Luxury, Greater China, Marriott International. "Suzhou's cultural legacy and vibrant energy provide the perfect setting for The Ritz-Carlton's personalized service and exceptional experiences. This opening reinforces our dedication to curating unforgettable moments across inspiring destinations, resonating with travelers seeking to experience both heritage and modernity."

Suzhou, often referred to as the "Venice of the East", boasts a rich history spanning over a thousand years and is home to UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the ancient Grand Canal and the renowned Classical Gardens of Suzhou. Located in the heart of the city, The Ritz-Carlton, Suzhou is within a two-kilometer walking distance to renowned attractions such as the Lingering Garden, Xiyuan Temple, and Shantang Street. The hotel is also next to the city's Metro Line and just three kilometers from Suzhou Railway Station with high-speed rail access, making it a convenient retreat for both leisure and business travelers.

Designed by the acclaimed KPF Architects, the hotel's striking facade utilizes modern techniques to reinterpret traditional Suzhou elements of layered, blue-tiled roofs, folding fan screens, and the concept of negative spaces in Chinese paintings. The interiors, conceptualized by renowned architect Peter Remedios, pay homage to Suzhou's storied silk trade and the iconic classical gardens. Neutral tones set a serene backdrop, accentuating the contrast of white walls and black tiles, while intricate lattice windows and silk-inspired motifs weave a refined narrative throughout. The result is an understated elegance that harmoniously reflects the city's rich heritage.

The hotel features 190 spacious guest rooms and suites, including 57 luxurious suites of 86-square meters. Each room takes inspiration from the minimalist Suzhou architecture of crisp black lines on white, defining shapes and silhouettes in its utmost simplicity. This modern Chinese aesthetic is further enhanced by traditional embroideries that depict bridges over streams, creating an immersive sense of place. The Ritz-Carlton Suite, spanning 306-square meters, offers an open terrace with panoramic views of the lush Gusu cityscape and Suzhou's iconic gardens. Guests staying in Club rooms and suites will be able to enjoy access to the signature Ritz-Carlton Club, an exclusive and intimate space that offers an atmosphere of privacy and sophistication, where cultural immersions will be held.

The hotel's three restaurants blend The Ritz-Carlton's culinary craftsmanship with the region's vibrant food culture. Alkanna, the hotel's specialty restaurant, serves modern bistro fare alongside a boutique à la carte menu and a selection of oven-grilled steaks. Additionally, Feng Pan Ting, a Chinese tea lounge, showcases Suzhou's famous tea culture, offering performances by tea masters and thoughtfully crafted afternoon tea. Biao Xia, the Chinese restaurant, offers Huaiyang cuisine exquisitely crafted from fresh, locally sourced ingredients, capturing the spirit of the destination.

Accompanying each stay are personalized interpretations of the city's cultural experiences. Guests can have the opportunity to join in various activities, including the signature Ritz Kids program, traditional tea master performances, and a unique local tradition of toasting with Huangjiu, a Chinese rice wine often enjoyed marking life's special moments. Each evening, creative tea-infused beverages are also served in the lobby, offering a warm and immersive way for guests to connect with the destination.

Additional facilities include a 24-hour fitness center with state-of-the-art equipment as well as an indoor swimming pool. For intimate gatherings, celebrations, or corporate functions, the hotel provides various well-appointed event spaces, including a spacious 508-square-meter grand ballroom, three versatile multi-functional meeting rooms, and a charming outdoor venue in the style of Suzhou's classical gardens.  

"The Ritz-Carlton, Suzhou stands as the crown jewel of the city's China Central Place, and sets to become a vibrant hub for commerce, culture, and social life," said Nicolas Kassab, General Manager, The Ritz-Carlton, Suzhou. "We aim to provide guests with a distinctive experience that reflects the luxury and heritage of Suzhou while also contributing to the city's vibrant cultural and hospitality landscape."

With this opening, The Ritz-Carlton, Suzhou establishes itself at the forefront of the abundant cultural heritage and modern luxury that Suzhou has to offer. By attracting both leisure and business travelers, the hotel is poised to become a vibrant hub for commerce and social life, further elevating Suzhou's status as a premier travel destination.

For more information, please visit: https://www.ritzcarlton.com/en/hotels/wuxsz-the-ritz-carlton-suzhou/overview/.

About The Ritz-Carlton, Suzhou

The Ritz-Carlton, Suzhou is nestled in the heart of Gusu District, within the newly developed China Central Place Suzhou, adjacent to the historic Gusu ancient city. The hotel seamlessly blends the essence of the Suzhou culture with modern luxury, showcasing the elegant charm of Jiangnan water town. The hotel boasts 190 spacious and bright guestrooms and suites, five event and meeting venues, and three distinctive dining venues, and three distinctive dining venues, including Feng Pan Ting Lobby Lounge, Biao Xia Chinese restaurant and Alkanna all-day dining restaurant, where guests can savor both local flavors and Western delicacies. The Ritz Carlton Club Lounge offers guests daily refreshments, along with serene views of the outdoor garden and exceptional services, ensuring a luxurious stay steeped in the unique ambiance of Jiangnan for the guests.

About The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, LLC

Delivering the Gold Standard in service in coveted destinations around the world, The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, LLC currently operates more than 120 hotels in over 35 countries and territories. From iconic urban destinations to stretches of paradise in untouched corners of the earth, The Ritz-Carlton offers the opportunity for true discovery and transformative escapes that stay with guests long after they depart. Committed to thoughtful innovation, The Ritz-Carlton encompasses two groundbreaking brand extensions, Ritz-Carlton Reserve and The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection. Ritz-Carlton Reserve is a collection of rare estates set apart from the world, where personalized care and cultural immersion are paramount. The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection translates the brand's legendary service and hospitality for sea, reimagining the ultra-luxury cruising category. For more information or reservations, visit the company website at www.ritzcarlton.com, for the latest company updates, visit news.marriott.com and to join the live conversation, use #RCMemories and follow along on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, L.L.C. is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Marriott International, Inc. (NASDAQ:MAR). The Ritz-Carlton is proud to participate in Marriott Bonvoy®, the global travel program from Marriott International. The program offers members an extraordinary portfolio of global brands, exclusive experiences on Marriott Bonvoy Moments and unparalleled benefits including complimentary nights and Elite status recognition. To enroll for free or for more information about the program, visit marriottbonvoy.com. The Ritz-Carlton is committed to supporting the destinations where it operates through Community Footprints, the company's social and environmental responsibility program.

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SOURCE The Ritz-Carlton, Suzhou

FAQ

What amenities does The Ritz-Carlton Suzhou offer to MAR investors and guests?

The hotel features 190 rooms, 57 luxury suites, three restaurants, a 508-square-meter ballroom, fitness center, indoor pool, and The Ritz-Carlton Club access for eligible guests.

How does the location of The Ritz-Carlton Suzhou benefit MAR's market position?

Located in Gusu District, it's within 2km of UNESCO sites and 3km from Suzhou Railway Station, offering strategic access to cultural attractions and transportation hubs.

What cultural experiences does the new Ritz-Carlton Suzhou offer MAR guests?

Guests can experience tea master performances, Huangjiu rice wine traditions, the Ritz Kids program, and cultural immersions at The Ritz-Carlton Club.

How many dining venues does the new Ritz-Carlton Suzhou offer under MAR's portfolio?

The hotel features three restaurants: Alkanna for modern bistro, Feng Pan Ting for tea culture, and Biao Xia for Huaiyang cuisine.