Banyan Tree Lijiang

Lijiang

Lijiang, in the Yunnan province was classified a UNESCO world heritage in 1997 because of its exceptional old city and its spectacular scenery facing the summits of the snow capped sacred Jade Dragon, the soul of the region and its Naxi minority. The historic old city was founded in the 13^th century under the Southern Song dynasty. Its unique urban landscape juxtaposes different architectural traditions of the central Chinese, Bai and Tibetan plains as well as the innovations contributed by the local Naxi population. It’s often said that if you haven’t seen Lijang, you haven’t seen Yunnan. The historical wealth and culture of the city, often called, “the Venice of the East,” Lijang, in recent years, has welcomed visitors from all over the world.

Contemplative reverie on the heights of Unnan

On the heights of a wooded park facing the majestic Mount Yulong, stands the traditional architecture of the Banyan Tree Lijiang buildings, inspired by the local Naxi culture. The resort, voted best hotel-spa in China in 2007, offers guests the unique experience of a retreat from the world designed for contemplation. One of the properties of the prestigious Banyan group, the resort responds to the strict environmental requirements imposed by the founders of the chain, Ho Kwan Ping and his wife, Claire Chang. “In the past, the banyan was a tree that offered shade and shelter to tired travellers. We adopted this name which symbolizes the relief and comfort offered by nature, for our group of hotels.” Located a few minutes from the old city of Lijiang, the historical birthplace of the Naxi culture, the complex pays tribute to the architectural traditions of this people, who have remained faithful to the cult of the forces of nature. The ochre and gold tones dominate the interiors whose lacquered wooden structures add to the refinement and elegance of the entire building.

The Banyan Tree Spa offers visitors a wide range of treatments based on the concepts of traditional Chinese medicine.

When asked why the couple from Singapore and founders of the Banyan chain spend so much time in the province of Yunnan, the answer was that it is here that Ho Kwon Ping sees the greatest number of opportunities for his group, which has since joined forces with the Angsana Resorts & Spa group.