The Ritz-Carlton Makes Grand Entrance in Suzhou, Blending Heritage with Luxury

SUZHOU, China – The Ritz-Carlton has officially opened its doors in Suzhou, marking the luxury brand’s first property in the historic city known as the “Venice of the East.” Situated in the heart of the Gusu District, the hotel offers a refined blend of Suzhou’s rich cultural heritage and The Ritz-Carlton’s world-class hospitality.

Bart Buiring, Managing Director of Luxury, Greater China, at Marriott International, highlighted the significance of the brand’s expansion into Suzhou, calling it a “milestone” in delivering personalized luxury experiences across Greater China. The hotel’s location provides seamless access to the city’s UNESCO-listed Classical Gardens, the ancient Grand Canal, and other iconic sites such as Lingering Garden, Xiyuan Temple, and Shantang Street.

Designed by renowned architectural firm KPF Architects, The Ritz-Carlton, Suzhou integrates traditional Suzhou aesthetics with modern elegance. The building’s facade draws inspiration from the region’s classical architecture, featuring layered blue-tiled roofs and intricate lattice designs. Inside, architect Peter Remedios’ interior concept pays tribute to Suzhou’s silk trade with neutral tones, silk-inspired motifs, and minimalist décor that echoes the city’s classical gardens.

The hotel offers 190 spacious rooms and suites, including 57 high-end suites with designs inspired by Suzhou’s historical bridges and waterways. The pinnacle of luxury is the 306-square-meter Ritz-Carlton Suite, which boasts an open terrace overlooking the city’s lush landscape. Guests staying in Club rooms and suites also gain access to the Ritz-Carlton Club Lounge, an exclusive retreat offering private cultural immersions and premium services.

Dining at The Ritz-Carlton, Suzhou is an experience in itself, featuring three distinct restaurants. Alkanna serves modern bistro cuisine, including oven-grilled steaks, while Feng Pan Ting showcases Suzhou’s renowned tea culture with performances by expert tea masters. The hotel’s signature Chinese restaurant, Biao Xia, offers Huaiyang cuisine crafted from fresh, locally sourced ingredients, providing an authentic taste of Jiangsu province’s culinary heritage.

Beyond luxurious accommodations and dining, The Ritz-Carlton, Suzhou presents curated cultural experiences, including traditional tea ceremonies, the signature Ritz Kids program, and Huangjiu toasting rituals—a nod to Suzhou’s historic rice wine tradition. Each evening, guests can enjoy creative tea-infused beverages in the lobby, enhancing their connection to the local culture.

For wellness and fitness, the hotel offers a 24-hour state-of-the-art fitness center and an indoor swimming pool. Business and social gatherings are well catered to with a 508-square-meter grand ballroom, three multi-functional meeting rooms, and an outdoor event space inspired by Suzhou’s gardens.

General Manager Nicolas Kassab described the property as “the crown jewel of Suzhou’s China Central Place,” positioning it as a vibrant hub for commerce, culture, and luxury hospitality. With its fusion of modern opulence and traditional elegance, The Ritz-Carlton, Suzhou is set to become a landmark destination for both leisure and business travelers.

As part of Marriott International, The Ritz-Carlton, Suzhou participates in the Marriott Bonvoy® loyalty program, offering members exclusive benefits and curated experiences. More details can be found at www.ritzcarlton.com.

SOURCE The Ritz-Carlton, Suzhou