Mandarin Oriental expands portfolio in China with new Suzhou hotel

Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group will launch a new luxury hotel in Suzhou, China, scheduled to open in 2026, as part of its plan to grow its portfolio in mainland China.

Designed by architectural firm ZNA, the hotel is being developed by Suzhou Harmony Development Group, a subsidiary of Sungent Holdings Group, in partnership with Hongkong Land, a member of the Jardine Matheson Group.

Mandarin Oriental, Suzhou is located on the east bank of the city’s famous Jinji Lake (金雞湖), offering panoramic lakeside views of the iconic architectural skyline to the west. According to the release, designed as a low-rise, serene sanctuary, this urban resort will be a core component of the new Central Business District, surrounded by expansive gardens, parks and lakeside walkways. It will also have direct access to the adjacent commercial and retail centre as well as to the city’s historic cultural heartland and its many UNESCO World Cultural Heritage sites.

The hotel will comprise 146 guestrooms and suites, many with balconies. Guests will enjoy a variety of dining options, including three restaurants, a lounge, a bar, and a cakeshop. Al fresco dining, with lakeside views and exquisite settings in landscaped gardens will be a unique feature of Mandarin oriental, Suzhou.

Additionally, the hotel will offer extensive spa and wellness facilities, featuring a wide range of wellness, beauty, and massage treatments, including Mandarin Oriental’s signature spa therapies. A fitness centre and indoor swimming pool will add to the overall resort experience. Significant meeting and event space will ensure it is well positioned for business and social gatherings. Surrounded by landscaped parkland, a children’s club will also provide educational, sports, and entertainment activities for families.

Laurent Kleitman, group chief executive of Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group, said: “We are delighted to be extending the group’s presence in mainland China and to be part of this exciting development in the heart of the city’s new central business district. Alongside our existing property in Shanghai, and our upcoming openings in Hangzhou and Nanjing, Mandarin Oriental, Suzhou will further introduce our fans to exceptional experiences throughout the Yangtze River Delta.”

“We look forward to working with our partners to create an inviting haven, where guests can experience the charm of this historic destination while enjoying the renowned quality of Mandarin Oriental’s legendary service,” Kleitman added. 

Michael Smith, chief executive of Hongkong Land, said: “We are excited to partner with Suzhou Harmony Development Group and are confident that Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group’s global reputation for excellence will ensure that, together, we create a truly unique and dynamic destination in the heart of Suzhou Industrial Park, bringing a new level of vibrancy to the community. We are committed to developing an ultra-luxury property that aligns with the sustainability goals of both companies.”

Don’t miss: Mandarin Oriental Group unveils guest-centric vision and strategy for next 10 years

Back in October last year, Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group revealed a new branded, guest-centric vision and strategy for its next ten years of accelerated growth. The plan will build on the strength of its dual Asian heritage to create exceptional luxury hospitality experiences of the future.

This property will complement the Group’s growing portfolio in the Yangtze River Delta. Suzhou is historically and culturally one of China’s most important ancient cities and a leading centre of tourism, culture, science and education.

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