Four Seasons Dalian now open in China

Making its mark as the first international luxury brand to open in the city in the past decade, the all-new Four Seasons Hotel Dalian stands as a beacon of style and sophistication in the Donggang harbour district in the city centre…

Dalian’s history, set in humble beginnings as a fishing village on the Liaodong peninsula, inspired the NBBJ Shanghai-designed building’s interiors by acclaimed international firm Hirsch Bedner Associates of Singapore. The design concept for Four Seasons Hotel Dalian draws inspiration from the rich historical tapestry of the city, particularly its deep-rooted connection with trains and the romantic allure associated with Dalian. The team further played on the idea of the city’s four distinct seasons in creating subtle transitions through the hotel’s public spaces, beginning with elements of winter in the 41st floor lobby, through a spring colours and materials palette in event spaces, to a bright and sunny ambiance in the spa and wellness centre, including its stunning indoor pool on the 38th floor. Finally, autumn’s warmth and earthy colours creating a feeling of luxurious comfort in the Hotel’s 254 guestrooms and suites on the 23rd to 36th floors.

An image of HUIHAI Restaurant featuring a sweeping staircase, parquet flooring, and views across the mountains

HUIHAI Restaurant at Four Seasons Dalian

Subtle design elements evoke the romance of train travel, from track-like graphics embedded in the lobby’s marble flooring and bespoke woven carpets in the guestrooms, to softly curved ceilings in the grand ballroom and framing views that suggest a private sleeping car racing through the countryside. Large-scale commissioned artworks throughout – including a series of show-stopping lighting elements – further reflect Dalian’s diverse landscape and the incredible views in every direction.

A guestroom where a king-sized bed with crispy white bedding takes centre stage with floor-to-ceiling wood panelling on the walls and window views of the ocean.

Ocean View Club King Room

The interiors of the hotel’s signature restaurants were conceived by Tokyo-based Strickland, which drew inspiration directly from the city’s history and culture to create authentic and unforgettable experiences. This includes the traditional florals and fabric wall art in the modern setting of Japanese restaurant Yotsuba; the fiery red colour scheme that sets an elegant stage for classic Cantonese cuisine at Saai Yue Heen; and the bustling, European-influence market vibe of HUIHAI.

An executive room with warm, neutral coloured furniture, comfortable looking seating, and a large wall-hung television overlooks the ocean and city shoreline.

Four Seasons Premier Suite

“Establishing a new culinary destination for both local guests and visitors to the city was a key part of our planning process,” notes General Manager Wayne Tan, a Four Seasons veteran who has overseen Michelin starred and World’s 50 Best restaurants and bars in Guangzhou, Hangzhou, Macau and Hong Kong.

Led by Executive Chef Yeoh Chin Foong, whose many years of experience in his home province of Guangdong shape the menu at Saai Yue Heen, the culinary team includes an international cast of characters each bringing their knowledge and signature style to the menus.

A striking, contemporary restaurant features warm red lighting and mirrored surfaces.

Saai Yue Heen Restaurant

Guests can look forward to the city’s most elevated tea service with the Skyline Afternoon Tea, offered daily in the beautiful Lobby Lounge on the 41st floor.  Here, guéridons (small side tables) and trolleys add flourish to the experience as cherry-blossom themed savouries and sweets are paired with the finest quality Chinese and international teas.

A cosy living area with a plump grey sofa, and marble-topped circular coffee table sitting atop a plaid rug with views across the city and ocean.

Executive Ocean View Suite

At the aptly named Harbour Bar, nautical themed elements nod to the area’s roots as a fishing village through to its growth as an internationally significant port city. Chic and vibrant, the vintage-style interiors are warmed by subtle lighting, setting the stage for cutting-edge mixology and a wide selection of spirits from around the world.

A long indoor pool lined with comfortable looking cabanas looks high across the city with floor-to-ceiling windows along one side.

Indoor Pool and Spa

The hotel’s Spa, with its bright blue interiors, natural design elements and warm wood tones is a tranquil space on the 38th floor. Expert spa therapists provide both pampering and result-driven treatments in six rooms, including two double-sized rooms and a luxurious spa suite. The state-of-the-art fitness centre offers inspiring views through floor-to-ceiling windows, while the infinity-edge pool appears to spill down to the city and across the landscape below.

A woman walks the length of the 38th-floor indoor pool with views of the mountains at sunset.

Pool views of Dalian

“Four Seasons Hotel Dalian marks our entry into China’s Northeast, and another milestone in our strategic growth in China and the broader region,” says Rainer Stampfer, Four Seasons President, Global Operations, Hotels and Resorts. “As we continue to grow, this project exemplifies our approach to introducing new luxury experiences that are uniquely reflective of their destinations, with every thoughtful detail setting the stage for the caring service for which Four Seasons is globally renowned.”

Main and all images courtesy: Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts