Shanghai is a city that constantly balances past and future—a metropolis of gleaming towers and neon lights, yet also a guardian of centuries-old traditions and architecture. Nowhere is this contrast more beautifully embodied than at the Capella Hotel, Shanghai, a retreat that invites you to step into history without ever sacrificing modern luxury.
A Setting Steeped in Heritage
Instead of planting itself in the heart of downtown Shanghai, the Capella is tucked away in one of the city’s most enchanting neighborhoods: the French Concession. Nestled within the historic Jian Ye Li estate, the hotel sits inside one of the city’s most important architectural preservation districts. Walking its leafy streets, with their shaded lanes and art deco buildings, feels like entering a living museum. Yet behind Capella’s heritage walls, a sleek, contemporary sanctuary awaits—proof that heritage and modernity can coexist beautifully.
Living the Shikumen Dream
To call the accommodations at Capella “rooms” would be misleading. What you get is essentially a five-story traditional Shikumen house, carefully restored and reimagined for the modern traveler. Each level has its own charm:
- The ground floor welcomes you with a living room and entrance, complete with a guest toilet.
- A floor above, a cozy TV room makes for a snug retreat.
- The bathroom feels more like a spa itself, equipped with both a bath and a shower.
- The master bedroom is the heart of the house, equal parts elegant and inviting.
- Finally, the experience culminates at a private rooftop terrace, perfect for soaking in the Shanghai skyline.
Every detail is tailored for comfort and sophistication. Think Bose speakers, multiple TVs, and thoughtful touches that bridge traditional design with modern convenience.
The Little Luxuries
The bathroom amenities set the tone: Acqua di Parma toiletries, plush slippers, robes, and even snail masks for skincare enthusiasts—a nod to the Asian beauty secrets beloved worldwide. It’s these extra touches that make you feel like the hotel thought of everything before you even realized you needed it.
Dining Done Right
At Capella, dining is an experience in itself. Breakfast is served in the main restaurant and blends a small but refined buffet with a curated à la carte menu. Every plate, from continental classics to more creative fare, is made with evident attention to quality. And for those who rely on caffeine to start their day, rejoice—the coffee is exceptional, with almond and soy milk options readily available.
Room service is equally impressive. Delivered in charming baskets, the beef burger and fries deserve a special mention. I often measure a hotel’s room service by the quality of its burger, and Capella passes this test with flying colors.
The Spa and Wellness Experience
Capella’s Auriga Spa is a revelation. Newly opened yet already remarkable, it offers treatments that go far beyond relaxation. My therapist, Grace, delivered what I can only describe as the best massage of my life, releasing tension and even alleviating migraines I’d been struggling with that week.
The gym, housed within the spa, is equally well thought out. Outfitted with high-end Technogym equipment, Hypoxi machines, and private workout rooms, it caters to those who like to stay active even while traveling.
Service That Warms the Soul
What sets Capella apart, beyond architecture and amenities, is its people. The service is consistently thoughtful, with staff who are warm, attentive, and genuinely eager to help. The blend of local and Western staff ensures smooth communication, while also offering a cultural richness to the experience.
Every evening, guests are greeted with delightful surprises—small traditional gifts and cultural notes left on the bed, adding an educational and personal touch to your stay. It’s these small gestures that transform a hotel stay into an unforgettable memory.
A Gem Within a Global Collection
Capella Shanghai is part of The Leading Hotels of the World (LHW), a curated collection of more than 375 luxury properties across 75 countries. Since its founding in 1928, LHW has built a reputation for selecting only hotels that are unique, distinctive, and deeply rooted in their locations. What unites them isn’t uniformity, but individuality—properties that reflect the culture, architecture, and spirit of their destinations. Capella Shanghai is a shining example of this philosophy, offering travelers not just a place to sleep, but a cultural immersion wrapped in comfort and elegance.
Final Thoughts
Capella Hotel Shanghai is more than a hotel—it’s an experience that captures the essence of the city itself: heritage reimagined through a modern lens. From its French Concession setting and Shikumen-style houses to its world-class spa and heartfelt service, every element is crafted to leave a lasting impression.
If you’re seeking a stay that goes beyond the ordinary, where every floor tells a story and every detail feels intentional, Capella Shanghai is the kind of place that will linger in your memory long after checkout.
