China's hotels earn the Michelin seal of approval

The Michelin Guide has unveiled its 2025 Michelin Key Hotels, marking the first time that properties from China have been included in the prestigious hotel rating system. A total of 64 hotels across China received the coveted distinction, which recognizes outstanding hospitality and design.

Among the winners, two hotels were awarded three Michelin keys, 13 received two keys, and 49 earned one key.

Launched as the hotel counterpart to Michelin stars for restaurants, the Michelin keys are now in their second year and aim to highlight exceptional stays around the world. The 2025 selection demonstrates that world-class hospitality in China extends well beyond its major urban centers.

Leading the list, Rissai Valley, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve hotel in Sichuan province's Jiuzhaigou, and Rosewood Hong Kong each received three Michelin keys, recognizing their unparalleled service, design and guest experience.

Thirteen properties, including Bvlgari Hotel Beijing and Bvlgari Hotel Shanghai, were awarded two keys. Overlooking the Liangma River in Beijing's Chaoyang district, Bvlgari Hotel Beijing has become a serene urban retreat since opening in 2017, blending contemporary Italian aesthetics with attentive service and refined hospitality.

Among the 49 one-key hotels are Mandarin Oriental Shenzhen in Guangdong province, The Temple House in Chengdu, Sichuan province, and The PuLi Hotel and Spa in Shanghai. Many of these hotels offer peaceful sanctuaries amid bustling cityscapes, while others provide secluded escapes surrounded by nature.

"We are immensely honored to receive this Michelin key," said Christian Dolenc, general manager of Mandarin Oriental, Shenzhen and area vice-president for Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group's South China operations.

"This recognition is a testament to the dedication and passion of our entire team, who strive every day to deliver the highest standards of service and create a truly exceptional 'playground in the sky' for our guests in Shenzhen," he added.

The inclusion of Chinese hotels in the Michelin key program underscores the country's growing presence on the global luxury hospitality stage — one defined not only by opulence, but by innovation, cultural authenticity and a refined sense of place.