China: HUALUXE and SHANG XIA bring cultural heritage into the hotel stay - Get updated on what's happening in tourism!

HUALUXE Hotels & Resorts is expanding its focus on contemporary interpretations of Chinese culture through a collaboration with lifestyle and design brand SHANG XIA. The two companies are introducing a co-branded collection of bath amenities as well as a series of cultural experiences designed to bring traditional craftsmanship and Chinese aesthetics into the hotel stay.

The partnership combines the hospitality concept of HUALUXE, part of IHG Hotels & Resorts, with SHANG XIA’s work in contemporary Chinese design and craftsmanship. The first elements will be introduced at hotels in Greater China from August and September.

Tea fragrance becomes part of the guest experience

A central element of the collaboration is a new collection of co-branded bath amenities inspired by SHANG XIA’s signature fragrance. Tea notes provide the sensory theme, while the product design translates the brand’s contemporary aesthetic into the hotel environment.

The collection will be introduced gradually across HUALUXE hotels in Greater China from September.

For Rita Jiang, Chief Commercial & Marketing Officer at IHG Greater China, the cooperation reflects a broader approach to Chinese-inspired hospitality. “We believe the true value of Chinese aesthetics lies in its ability to connect cultural heritage with modern lifestyles,” she says.

“Our collaboration with SHANG XIA reflects a shared vision of bringing together craftsmanship, contemporary design and hospitality to create meaningful moments for today’s travellers.”

Bamboo weaving and tea culture in three cities

The partnership extends beyond hotel rooms. SHANG XIA will also become part of HUALUXE Gathering, the hotel brand’s cultural programme combining Chinese traditions with culinary and social experiences.

Beginning in August, seasonal activities will be offered in Shanghai, Shenzhen and Beijing. The programme includes bamboo weaving, tea appreciation, Chinese-inspired refreshments and product experiences linked to different seasons and occasions.

The concept is intended to allow guests to encounter aspects of Chinese culture within the hotel rather than treating cultural heritage solely as something experienced during sightseeing outside the property.

Traditional craftsmanship meets contemporary design

SHANG XIA was established with the aim of translating traditional Chinese craftsmanship into contemporary products and lifestyles. CEO Weili Liu sees the hotel partnership as another setting in which this approach can be applied.

“Over the past 16 years, we have continued to explore how modern design can bring craftsmanship closer to everyday life,” Liu says. “Our collaboration with HUALUXE Hotels & Resorts reflects a shared vision to integrate traditional artistry into new guest stay.”

He adds that SHANG XIA intends to continue using design “as a bridge between craftsmanship and contemporary lifestyles.”

HUALUXE grows to 27 hotels in Greater China

HUALUXE Hotels & Resorts was established in 2012 as an IHG brand built specifically around Chinese hospitality traditions and contemporary travel needs.

The brand currently operates 27 hotels across Greater China, with another 20 properties in the development pipeline. The collaboration with SHANG XIA adds another cultural component to that expansion, linking hotel design and services with craftsmanship, tea culture and seasonal traditions.

Image Credit: © AI generated illustration with material courtesy of IHG