The Ritz-Carlton Debuts in Suzhou, Showcasing the Timeless Elegance and Rich Heritage of China's Venice of the East

Rhea-AI Summary

Marriott International (NASDAQ:MAR) has announced the opening of The Ritz-Carlton, Suzhou, marking the brand's first venture into this historic Chinese city. Located in the Gusu District, the hotel features 190 guest rooms, including 57 luxury suites, and is situated within walking distance of UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

The property includes four restaurants and bars, a 508-square-meter grand ballroom, three multi-functional meeting rooms, and an outdoor venue. Notable amenities comprise a 24-hour fitness center, a 143m² swimming pool, and the exclusive Ritz-Carlton Club offering cultural experiences.

Designed by KPF Architects with interiors by Peter Remedios, the hotel's architecture blends modern techniques with traditional Suzhou elements. The location provides strategic access to major transportation hubs, including Suzhou Railway Station with high-speed rail connections to Shanghai, Xi'an, and Guangzhou.

Positive

• Strategic location near UNESCO sites and major transportation hubs enhances property value
• Premium positioning with high-end amenities and luxury suites indicates strong revenue potential
• Cultural integration and exclusive experiences create differentiation in luxury market

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

SHANGHAI, 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.                                                                                       

"Suzhou, with its timeless gardens, classical canals, and centuries-old tradition of artistry and craftsmanship, offers an extraordinary setting for The Ritz-Carlton experience," said Tina Edmundson, President of Luxury at Marriott International. "We are honored to invite guests to immerse themselves in the city's poetic beauty and rich heritage, reimagined through our refined lens of luxury and legendary service."

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 to popular destinations, including Shanghai, Xi'an, and Guangzhou, 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 Level 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 including Su Embroidery sessions, Suzhou tea masterclasses, and traditional fan workshop will be held.

The hotel's four restaurants and bars 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. The Alkanna Bar offers an extensive wine collection and a unique cocktail menu featuring herbal-based specialties. Additionally, Feng Pan Ting, a Chinese tea lounge, showcases Suzhou's famous tea culture, offering performances by tea masters and an array of authentic local delicacies. 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 a 143m² swimming pool. For intimate gatherings, celebrations, or corporate functions, the hotel provides four 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."

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

ABOUT THE RITZ-CARLTON, SUZHOU

Welcome to The Ritz-Carlton, Suzhou, a sanctuary where the borderless blend of past and present redefines luxury in the historic Gusu District of Suzhou City. With 190 impeccably designed rooms and suites, 4 restaurants & bars, 508 sqm Grand Ballroom, and 3 function rooms, our hotel invites you to experience a harmonious fusion of Suzhou's storied heritage and contemporary elegance. The prestigious China Central Place, Suzhou, offers guests unparalleled access to Tadao Ando's architectural masterpiece, H+ Art Museum, and premium shopping and entertainment. The hotel's design is a tribute to Suzhou's iconic gardens and canals, embodying a timeless sophistication.

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 Marriott International, Inc.

FAQ

What are the key features of the new Ritz-Carlton Suzhou property under MAR?

The property features 190 rooms (including 57 suites), 4 restaurants and bars, a 508m² grand ballroom, a 143m² pool, and exclusive Club Level access with cultural experiences.

How does the location of Ritz-Carlton Suzhou benefit MAR's business strategy?

Located in Gusu District, it's within 2km of UNESCO sites and 3km from Suzhou Railway Station, offering strategic access to Shanghai, Xi'an, and Guangzhou via high-speed rail.

What unique cultural experiences does the new MAR property offer in Suzhou?

The hotel offers Su Embroidery sessions, Suzhou tea masterclasses, traditional fan workshops, and tea master performances through its Club Level access.

What is the architectural significance of MAR's new Ritz-Carlton Suzhou?

Designed by KPF Architects, it features modern interpretations of traditional Suzhou elements like layered blue-tiled roofs and folding fan screens.