Hangzhou, March 14, 2016 – Shangri-La Hotels and Resorts unveiled its second hotel in Hangzhou, Midtown Shangri-La, Hangzhou, on March 12. Since establishing its first China property in Hangzhou more than three decades ago, the Hong Kong-based group has returned to the heart of one of the eight ancient Chinese capital cities to open a 417-room property that fuses the best of the past with the best of the present.

The new-build hotel is located in the vibrant Kerry Central Complex – a modern mixed-use development in downtown Xiacheng district with an office tower, apartments and a high-end shopping mall – and is a five-minute walk to the historic West Lake and acclaimed UNESCO site. Nearby is another renowned World Heritage cultural site, the Beijing-Hangzhou Grand Canal, as well as the high-speed train station and international airport.

“We couldn’t be more excited to open a second hotel in Hangzhou and extend Shangri-La’s genuine heart-warming hospitality to travelers arriving at a destination that melds history with modernity. Shangri-La will continue to play an important role in curating authentic guest experiences to showcase the qualities that make Hangzhou so special,” said Greg Dogan, Shangri-La president and chief executive officer.

Midtown Shangri-La, Hangzhou is a setting where the essence of the West Lake is present around the 13-story hotel. Art objects, from a traditional silk painting of the lake in the lobby to a custom-designed chandelier that mimics rippling water, are displayed in homage to the breathtaking landmark.

Throughout the hotel’s contemporary and elegantly furnished guestrooms, ranging from 43 to 86 square meters (about 483 to 926 square feet) with views of the city or West Lake, are delicate pieces of Hangzhou’s famous ice crack Ge Kiln porcelain and emblems of the lotus flower that blooms in summer along the freshwater lake. Free Wi-Fi is offered in addition to spacious marble bathrooms, walk-in wardrobes and large work spaces.

Situated on the highest floors of Midtown Shangri-La, Hangzhou are its Executive Suites, Speciality Suites and the Horizon Club Lounge. Horizon Club and suite guests can enjoy extra privileges including express check-in and check-out, complimentary breakfast buffet, all-day refreshments, evening cocktails and full concierge service.

Just as Hangzhou is a city of contrasts, the hotel’s restaurants and bar present a range of concepts for socializing and entertaining. Diners are transported to a European-style restaurant at Central Market where show kitchens brim with international choices for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

The Great Lounge is an ideal gathering place for those who prefer a casual ambience and live entertainment. Aside from elegant afternoon tea and cocktails, an enviable Chinese tea menu is available and includes varieties of Hangzhou’s renowned Longjing tea, or Dragon Well tea.

Offering specialty craft beers by the resident brew master, Midtown Brewery will undoubtedly rate among the top new spots in Hangzhou. The modern brewery is where guests can enjoy innovative small plates, comfort dishes and personalized tasting menus for sharing all accompanied by live music.

At Cheng Zong Chinese restaurant, situated on the second level of Kerry Central Complex and due to open later in the year, casual Cantonese and bespoke Hangzhou cuisine will be presented in a chic setting of plush carpets and Oriental artwork.

With a dedicated approach to well-being, the hotel’s Health Club – with a fully equipped gym, indoor swimming pool, Jacuzzi, sauna and steam rooms – will assist guests to achieve their fitness goals. Spa goers can enjoy pampering treatments, drawing on traditional Chinese philosophy, at CHI, The Spa’s private suites with skilled therapists to create the perfect escape.

Combining creativity and ten function rooms, including a Grand Ballroom that seats 840 guests for dinner, exclusive occasions will be memorable at Midtown Shangri-La, Hangzhou with the support of event experts and the hotel’s high-tech facilities.