Accor, in partnership with Shanghai Xinguang Technology Development Group, announced the development of Sofitel Shanghai South, a stunning 293-key luxury urban resort, set to open in 2025. Sofitel Shanghai South will be a landmark among the new development of Zhuanghang Town in the Fengxian District – one of the city's most historically fascinating, fastest-growing areas, with a major revitalization plan underway. The new Sofitel Shanghai South will feature the brand's signature modern French style, deftly blended with rich Shanghainese traditional culture, while creating a sustainable and thriving future with an environmentally sensitive approach to development.
"We are honored to partner with Shanghai Xinguang Technology Development Group to bring the modern French elegance of Sofitel to the brilliantly evolving landscape of the Fengxian District, particularly at our privileged address in Zhuanghang Town," said Gary Rosen, CEO, Accor Greater China. "From French gastronomy, to an emphasis on arts and culture, chic and sophisticated design, and well-being, Sofitel will bring a sense of modern luxury and savoir-faire to this up-and-coming neighborhood that will beautifully complement the natural surroundings and relaxed atmosphere that attracts visitors from near and far."
A new destination of limitless growth and opportunity, Zhuanghang Town is developing spaces and infrastructure to attract new generations of investors, tourists, and residents, whilst preserving its unique history, heritage, and culture. The prime location of Sofitel Shanghai South rests along the banks of the Huangpu River, surrounded by a complete ecosystem of verdant woods and abundant orchards that characterize the new Zhuanghang Town. Rich with natural resources and pristine air, the area is an attractive destination for Shanghai residents as well as business and leisure travelers to the Yangtze River Delta region. Located about 40km from Shanghai downtown and 30km from Shanghai Hongqiao Airport, Sofitel Shanghai South will be a mere one hour from Shanghai Pudong International Airport.
A low-rise hotel amid an expansive resort setting, the new Sofitel Shanghai South will be surrounded with the wild luxury of Zhuanghang's conservation forest, and wafting with the cool scents of woods and wildflowers. A rooftop urban farm concept will integrate the natural woodlands with the hotel's own produce garden, while featuring a rooftop bar, restaurant, and event space for special moments in the sunshine or under the stars. Guests of Sofitel Shanghai South will gaze out at the sparkling views of the Huangpu River from the hotel's sunlit atrium corridors, panoramic guestroom windows, and spectacular infinity pool, sitting majestically above the metasequoia and camphor trees in the forest below.
Sustainability and respect for the natural environment are essential values for both Accor and Shanghai Xinguang Technology Development Group and are the driving forces behind the design and development of Sofitel Shanghai South. The hotel's design theme is inspired by the sika deer in the surrounding conservation forest, and 《小雅·鹿鸣》 - The Deer Call - taken from The Book of Songs, the first poetry collection in ancient China. The architectural vision of the hotel is designed by AND Studio, an international firm renowned for its ability to integrate natural ecology and cultural significance into its design plans. Building construction of the hotel is following green building standards and certification – with an emphasis on energy efficiency, green materials, and technologically advanced systems. As a place of natural beauty, lush wilderness, and unique hospitality experiences, Sofitel Shanghai South will open the doors to a design inspired by the charm and character of the earth, rivers, and all things in nature.
"With our long history of developing and managing hotels, we have undergone numerous studies and verifications of project site selections and future development prospects, and none have been as compelling or rare as our site for Sofitel Shanghai South in Zhuanghang Town," said Huang Shangwei, Chairman, Shanghai Xinguang Technology Development Group. "Our collaboration with Accor has opened up exciting new opportunities, combining our Shanghainese culture with Sofitel's inimitable French style. Sofitel Shanghai South will surely become a modern classic that shines by the Huangpu River."
Sofitel Hotels & Resorts is a much sought-after brand in Greater China given the strong affinity that Chinese travelers have for French luxury and lifestyle. Sofitel has a well-established presence in Greater China with 22 beautiful hotels and resorts in key destinations including Beijing, Shanghai, Hangzhou, Guangzhou, Xian, Kunming, Guiyang, Sanya and Haikou. The recent signing of Sofitel Shanghai North Bund – and now Sofitel Shanghai South – demonstrate the brand's strong commitment to further expansion across China.