Six Senses to open new wellness retreat in Beijing’s historic Three Hills and Five Gardens area - Get updated on what's happening in tourism!

The luxury hospitality brand Six Senses has announced the signing of Six Senses Beijing, a new property set to open in the Haidian District of China’s capital. The hotel management agreement with Beijing Zhongguancun Avenue Construction & Development Group forms part of the renewal of Liulangzhuang, an area that is evolving into a centre for cultural programming and international exchange. The project lies within the historic Three Hills and Five Gardens landscape, long associated with the Summer Palace and the imperial retreats of the Qing dynasty.

Neil Palmer, Chief Operating Officer of Six Senses, said: “Six Senses has always sought destinations with a strong story. The setting for Six Senses Beijing is extraordinary. The Three Hills and Five Gardens area has deep cultural and historical significance, and we are honored to be part of Liulangzhuang’s revival. Together with our partners, we look forward to creating an urban retreat where guests can connect with the spirit of Beijing in a way that feels intrinsically Six Senses, both restorative and regenerative.”

Expansion in Greater China

Six Senses Beijing will become the brand’s second property in Greater China, joining Six Senses Qing Cheng Mountain. The development reflects the company’s broader strategy of expanding into both remote destinations and major cities such as Rome, Kyoto and London while preserving its focus on wellbeing, sustainability and cultural authenticity.

Cheng Yue, Chairman of Beijing Haidian Urban Renewal Development Co., Ltd., said: “Six Senses Beijing reflects a shared commitment from all partners to deliver a project of extraordinary quality, with a deep commitment to wellness and sustainability throughout. From design through to construction, a seamless journey from vision to operation will draw on the strengths of the Six Senses brand to shape a destination of enduring value for Beijing.”

Architecture inspired by traditional courtyard homes

The hotel will be developed on land historically used as imperial rice paddies that once supplied the royal court. Waterways and lotus ponds will shape the landscape, restoring elements of the area’s historic character while reflecting the rhythm of traditional village life.

Six Senses Beijing will feature 75 guest rooms and suites with one to four bedrooms. The design draws inspiration from traditional siheyuan courtyard houses, combining historical architectural principles with contemporary interpretations of courtyard living.

Some residences will open onto private gardens and boat jetties, while others will share sheltered courtyards shaded by magnolia trees. Hutong-style pathways will link the buildings across two connected sites.

Dining and social spaces by the water

A boat pier will connect the arrival lobby and lounge with many of the resort’s facilities, several of which will be positioned directly on the water. Light-filled pavilions will host restaurants and gathering spaces where traditional design motifs meet modern architectural lines.

A two-storey residence designed for private events will provide flexible space for gatherings and can be accessed either by boat or via a private entrance.

Wellness at the core of the experience

Wellness programming will play a central role in the concept of Six Senses Beijing. Guests will have access to spa treatments as well as longer wellness journeys that combine scientific approaches with traditional healing practices.

Signature experiences will include personalised wellness screenings, biohacking sessions and the brand’s “Sleep With Six Senses” programme, designed to support rest and recovery during each stay.

Sustainability and community engagement

The hotel will also feature the brand’s Earth Lab and Alchemy Bar concepts. The Earth Lab will host workshops focused on sustainable living, inviting both guests and local residents to participate in hands-on learning experiences.

At the Alchemy Bar, visitors will be able to create their own botanical scrubs and spa preparations using plant-based ingredients.

Six Senses continues to expand globally as part of the IHG Hotels & Resorts Luxury & Lifestyle portfolio. The brand currently operates 27 properties in 20 countries and recently opened Six Senses London in March 2025, with further developments underway across Asia, Europe and the Middle East.

Image Credit: © IHG