The Fairmont Peace Hotel is the most storied hotel in Shanghai. It opened in 1929 as the Cathay Hotel, part of Sassoon House, and its Art Deco design, green pyramid roof and corner location on Nanjing Road East make it one of the best known buildings on the Bund. The hotel was carefully restored and reopened in the early 2010s, and it keeps period details such as the lobby ceilings and the geometric patterns. A famous old jazz band plays in the Jazz Bar, which has been a Shanghai institution for decades. Rooms are comfortable, often with historic touches, and the location, at the junction of the Bund and the Nanjing Road pedestrian street, is hard to beat.
Location and getting around: the hotel stands at the corner of the Bund and Nanjing Road East, so the river promenade is across the road and the pedestrian shopping street begins at the hotel doorstep. East Nanjing Road metro station is a few minutes' walk, which links to lines 2 and 10, and the Yu Garden is about fifteen minutes away on foot. Taxis wait at the door, and many day tours collect guests from here. For a first trip, this is a very convenient base.
The rooms: they vary in size and layout because they sit inside a historic building, so ask for the category that suits you, and request a river-view room if you want the skyline. Suites are named after national themes, and the Nine Nations Suites are the grand choice. Some rooms are compact by luxury standards, so pay attention to the description at booking. Bathrooms are elegant, and the beds are comfortable.
Who it suits and what to know: it is perfect for travellers who value history, architecture and atmosphere, couples and first-timers who want to be at the centre of the Bund. The jazz bar draws crowds in the evening, so reserve a table or go early. Rates are in the upper range, and they rise during holidays and the busiest seasons. The area outside can be crowded, but inside the hotel it is calm. Check what your rate includes for breakfast and confirm any renovation notices before you book.
Why stay here
- ✓1929 Art Deco landmark
- ✓Jazz Bar with live band
- ✓Bund and Nanjing Road location
- ✓River-view rooms
- ✓Spa and fitness centre
- ✓Multiple restaurants and bars
- ✓Concierge and tour desk
- ✓Walk to East Nanjing Road metro
Good questions
Is the Fairmont Peace Hotel historic?+
Yes. It opened in 1929 as the Cathay Hotel and is one of the best known Art Deco buildings on the Bund, restored and reopened in the early 2010s.
Where is it?+
At the corner of the Bund and Nanjing Road East. The promenade is across the street and East Nanjing Road metro station is nearby.
Is the jazz bar worth visiting?+
It is a Shanghai institution with a long-running band, popular with guests and visitors. Reserve a table or go early, as evenings get busy.
