REVIEW | Amanyangyun Shanghai, China
- VVZ Travels
- Oct 9
- 11 min read
Room rate and hotel details
Room type: Ming Deluxe Pavillion
Room rate: USD 1,450 per night
Nights stayed: 2 nights
Dates stayed: 30 August - 1 September 2025
Complimentary Virtuoso benefits when you book with us
Room Upgrade: Receive a complimentary upgrade to a higher room category upon arrival, if available.
Daily Breakfast: Enjoy complimentary daily breakfast for up to two guests.
Food & Beverage Credit: A $100 USD equivalent credit can be used for dining or spa treatments during your stay.
Early Check-in/Late Check-out: Gain early access to your room or enjoy a later check-out time, depending on availability.
Overall Rating
Explanations can be found in the conclusion of this post
Room: 10/10
Breakfast: 10/10 General areas: 10/10
Facilities: 10/10 Service: 8.5/10
Value: 10/10
Introduction
If we were to recommend a single resort in Shanghai, this would be it. Read further and be prepared to be inspired by how beautifully history blends with modern luxury to bring forth the perfect resort stay, complete with cultural activities for a full immersion (which are all included in the nightly rate - the most generous suite of inclusions we have seen from any resort).
For abit of background and history (guests are invited to watch a 20-minute documentary about the resort in their IMAX theatre upon arrival), Amanyangyun is a luxury resort on the outskirts of Shanghai, developed by Aman and renowned for one of the most ambitious heritage preservation projects in China. Spearheaded by entrepreneur Ma Dadong, the resort was born from an effort to save ancient camphor trees and Ming- and Qing-dynasty houses threatened by a dam project in Jiangxi. Over 10,000 trees and 50 historic homes were carefully relocated 700 kilometers and reassembled on site.
Designed by Kerry Hill Architects, Amanyangyun blends traditional Chinese architecture with minimalist modern design. The restored residences feature intricate stone carvings, timber beams, and courtyards, while the interiors use natural materials like bamboo and stone in a serene, understated style. The resort includes contemporary suites inspired by courtyard homes, expansive gardens, a cultural pavilion, and a world-class spa, offering guests a deeply immersive experience that fuses history, nature, and refined luxury.
Arrival and Check-In
Our arrival at Amanyangyun was seamless and impressively well-orchestrated. As soon as we stepped out of the car, our luggage was swiftly taken care of, allowing us to fully relax as we were promptly escorted to the serene and minimalist lobby.
There, we were welcomed with cold towels and a refreshing cup of chilled Chinese tea, a simple yet elegant gesture that immediately set the tone for the stay.
Shortly after, we were invited to watch a 20-minute documentary in the resort’s private IMAX cinema, which told the incredible story behind Amanyangyun’s creation—detailing the relocation of ancient camphor trees and heritage villas from Jiangxi. This immersive introduction gave us a profound appreciation for the vision, cultural depth, and extraordinary effort that went into building the resort, making our stay feel even more meaningful from the very beginning.
We were then taken on a short tour of the resort gounds. During our tour, we were delighted to encounter the resort’s deer manger. Ordinarily, they would be roaming freely among the camphor forest— but the females had just given birth, thus were kept in the barn until the young were abit older. These deer, along with white peacocks, are part of the resort’s natural inhabitants; they wander through the grounds, enhancing the forested landscape and creating spontaneous moments of nature meeting luxury.
Ming Deluxe Pavillion
The Ming Deluxe Pavilion is a luxurious, modern sanctuary within Amanyangyun’s contemporary wing. At ~160 square metres (≈1,722 sq ft), it provides generous space with refined design.
The suite includes a separate bedroom (king bed), a large living room with workspace, and plenty of room to relax. It features two private courtyards, and outdoor amenities include an outdoor bathtub. The en-suite bathroom comes with twin vanities, a bathtub, a separate shower, and a WC.
The Pavilion was designed by the renowned Kerry Hill Architects, known for their masterful ability to blend heritage with contemporary design. While the pavilion is part of the resort’s modern wing, its aesthetic draws heavily from Ming and Qing dynasty architecture.
Located within the same serene compound as the restored Antique Villas, the pavilion benefits from the presence of ancient camphor trees, stone pathways, and traditional garden elements that lend a timeless atmosphere to the grounds.
The shared compound layout ensures privacy while still allowing glimpses of the architectural beauty and historical significance of the Antique Villas nearby. Stepping outside the pavilion, we were surrounded by manicured greenery, soothing natural sounds, and a harmonious balance of old and new.
The outdoor space is ideal for a morning stroll, quiet reading, or simply soaking in the peaceful energy of the forested setting—an experience that feels both exclusive and spiritually grounding.
Traditional materials like nanmu wood, stone, and bamboo are used throughout, paired with clean-lined, minimalist furniture and soft lighting to create a serene, meditative space. A defining feature is the seamless indoor-outdoor flow, with a private courtyard and an outdoor bathtub that encourage connection to nature.
Light and shadow are thoughtfully integrated into the design through large windows, skylights, and wooden screens, creating dynamic patterns that shift throughout the day. These architectural elements not only enhance the visual texture but also maintain a sense of calm and balance.
The bathroom is a stunning space characterized by its high ceilings and thoughtfully placed skylights, which flood the room with natural light throughout the day. This airy design creates an open, serene atmosphere that enhances the sense of calm and luxury.
The combination of natural materials—such as stone and wood—with modern fixtures adds warmth and elegance, while the spacious layout includes a deep soaking tub, a separate shower, and twin vanities.
Kerry Hill’s vision results in a pavilion that is both luxurious and deeply rooted in cultural context, embodying Amanyangyun’s philosophy of thoughtful preservation and modern comfort.
One-Bedroom Antique Pavillion
We also visited the One-Bedroom Antique Pavilion, which is a beautifully restored villa at Amanyangyun, offering approximately 350 m² (around 3,767 ft²) of elegant, heritage-rich living space.
This unique accommodation is a historic villa dating back to the Ming and Qing dynasties, meticulously relocated and preserved from Jiangxi province.
Inside, original architectural elements—such as intricate timber beams, antique stone carvings, and traditional layout features—blend seamlessly with modern luxury.
One of the most fascinating aspects of this pavilion is its historical significance—the villa was rescued and relocated stone-by-stone and beam-by-beam as part of a large conservation project, making your stay not just luxurious, but deeply rooted in cultural preservation. The result is a one-of-a-kind sanctuary that combines architectural heritage, natural beauty, and contemporary comfort in a truly exceptional setting.
The pavilion includes a spacious king bedroom, generous living and dining areas, large wardrobes, and an expansive bathroom with twin vanities, a freestanding bathtub, and a separate shower.
Outside, guests share a serene courtyard, lush garden, and a swimming pool with the larger Antique Villa compound.
Welcome Amenities, Minibar and Turndown Service
The welcome amenities at Amanyangyun were generous and beautifully presented, setting a warm and thoughtful tone for our stay. Upon arrival, we found a large bowl of fresh seasonal fruits, a full-sized tiramisu cake, and a selection of drinks waiting for us in the room—an indulgent and inviting touch. the tiramisu was easily in the top tier of tiramisus out there.
The complimentary minibar at Amanyangyun was a delightful blend of comfort and local charm. It included a thoughtful selection of non-alcoholic beverages—such as soft drinks, sparkling water, and juices—all restocked daily. A particularly nostalgic and charming touch was the White Rabbit sweets, a classic Shanghai candy that added a sense of place and cultural connection to the experience. The combination of refreshments and local treats made the minibar feel curated rather than standard, enhancing the feeling of considered luxury throughout our stay.
The turndown service each evening was equally impressive, with a special gift left for us each night. On the first night, we received an Amanyangyun-branded tote bag, and on the second night, a stylish Amanyangyun cap—both high-quality keepsakes that reflected the resort’s attention to detail. However, there was a small oversight during our stay: the body lotion in the bathroom wasn’t refilled, which stood out slightly given the otherwise impeccable level of service. Nonetheless, the overall thoughtfulness and care in the in-room experience far outweighed this minor lapse.
Resort Activities
We booked the Wellness Escape package (same price as a standard package which was a no brainer to select) at Amanyangyun for stays of three nights and above which includes a curated set of experiences designed to rejuvenate both body and mind.
Included complimentary activities are:
Morning wellness class at the Aman Spa
A 45-minute back massage for two
High tea experience at The Bar
Seasonal tea tasting at Bei Teahouse
One immersive cultural activity through the resort’s Nan Shufang program
Personalised tour of the art exhibition at the Aman Residence
Bicycle riding and jogging paths in the surrounding forest park
Photoshoot for two including makeup and styling
The photoshoot was a standout experience that we couldn't believe was complimentary - it would cost around USD 500 for an external vendor to deliver the same level of services and inclusions. They prepared costumes, did our makeup and hair and brought us around the resort grounds for the photoshoot.
It beautifully captured the essence of the resort’s serene atmosphere and architectural elegance. Set against the backdrop of ancient camphor trees and centuries-old villas, the photoshoot felt intimate and thoughtfully arranged. The photographer made excellent use of natural light—especially around the courtyards, stone pathways, and textured wooden facades—bringing out the rich details and calm tones of the surroundings.
Breakfast
Breakfast at Amanyangyun is a refined blend of à la carte and buffet offerings, thoughtfully designed to balance wellness and indulgence. The experience begins with a small health shot—such as turmeric and ginger—served as a gentle, invigorating start to the morning.
We were then invited to explore a beautifully presented buffet featuring fresh fruits, yoghurts, baked goods, and local specialties, complemented by an à la carte menu with both Chinese and Western dishes.
Whether opting for delicate dim sum, nourishing congee, or eggs and pancakes made to order, each dish is prepared with precision and elegance.
Freshly pressed juices, premium teas, and expertly brewed coffee round out the experience. Set in a serene environment, the breakfast feels unhurried and deeply restorative—true to Amanyangyun’s quiet, thoughtful luxury.
Resort Grounds and Facilities
The resort grounds are expansive, tranquil, and deeply rooted in both nature and history. Set within a centuries-old camphor forest, the property feels more like a serene village than a resort.
Ancient stone pathways wind through the landscape, connecting traditional Chinese villas and modern pavilions with lush gardens, reflective water features, and sculpted courtyards. The natural beauty of the setting is enhanced by a deep sense of stillness, making even a short walk feel meditative.
Facilities are thoughtfully integrated into the environment. The Aman Spa is a centrepiece, offering a wide range of wellness treatments, thermal facilities, and a tranquil relaxation area.
There’s a beautifully equipped gym that guests can book privately for exclusive use, ensuring a peaceful and uninterrupted workout.
The resort also includes a yoga and Pilates studio, indoor and outdoor pools, an on-site IMAX theatre, a cultural learning space at Nan Shufang, and a Children’s Discovery Centre. Every element—from design to service—reflects Aman’s signature blend of minimalism, cultural sensitivity, and quiet luxury, creating a setting that is as inspiring as it is restorative.
Departure
Our departure was handled with the same grace and attention to detail that defined our entire stay. As we completed the check-out process, we were presented with a thoughtful farewell gift: Aman’s classic leather luggage tags, each elegantly embossed and discreetly containing our names inside—a timeless keepsake that perfectly captured the resort’s understated luxury. While we wrapped up the final moments of our stay, our luggage had already been carefully loaded into the car, ready for departure without us lifting a finger. It was a quiet, polished farewell that left us feeling genuinely cared for until the very last moment.
Conclusion
Room: 10/10
The Ming Deluxe Pavillion offered an exceptional stay, blending centuries-old architecture with modern luxury. The high ceilings, private courtyard, and skylit bathroom created a calming, light-filled retreat, while thoughtful welcome touches like a full-sized tiramisu cake and fresh fruit made the space feel warm and personal. The room is unlike anything you'd find anywhere else in the world and is. a destination in itself.
Breakfast: 10/10
Breakfast was a highlight, combining à la carte and buffet options with a focus on quality and presentation. Each morning began with a health shot—like turmeric and ginger—followed by beautifully prepared Western and Chinese dishes, fresh juices, and expertly brewed tea and coffee. The serene setting made it feel like a ceremony rather than just a meal.
General Areas: 10/10
The resort grounds were nothing short of stunning. Surrounded by ancient camphor trees, stone walkways, and tranquil gardens, every area felt peaceful and atmospheric. Walking through the property felt like exploring a hidden village steeped in culture and nature.
Facilities: 10/10
The facilities were top-tier and well-integrated into the serene landscape. The spa was a sanctuary, the gym could be privately booked for exclusive use, and the IMAX theatre, cultural spaces, and pool areas added both variety and depth to the stay. Everything felt thoughtfully designed and impeccably maintained.
Service: 8.5/10
Service was generally warm and polished, with standout moments like personalised turndown gifts (an Aman tote and cap) and beautifully arranged in-room amenities. However, there were minor lapses, such as the body lotion not being refilled, which slightly detracted from an otherwise seamless experience. Staff also seemed to be less experienced in luxury service in comparison to other Aman properties.
Value: 10/10
Given the combination of architectural heritage, serene natural surroundings, exceptional design, and the array of curated experiences included, the stay felt like incredible value. It offered not just luxury, but meaningful connection to place, culture, and personal wellbeing. It is one of the lowest priced Amans in the world, but arguably in the top tier of Aman properties.
Comments