This Stunning Hotel in Asia Was Just Crowned the Most Beautiful in the World-and It Has Historic Hidden Alleyways

"When Mandarin Oriental Qianmen opened its doors in late 2024, the property shone the spotlight on a different side of Beijing. Rather than a sleek, multistory modern building, guests can now immerse themselves in the historic side of the Chinese capital by staying in a hutong, or one of the ancient alleyway networks that have been a hub of local life for centuries-all with Tiananmen Square, the Forbidden City (The Palace Museum), and the National Museum of China within walking distance."

"One of the smallest properties in the Mandarin Oriental portfolio, this intimate retreat features 42 single-story homes scattered across several streets in the Caochang Hutong, interwoven with privately owned homes, restaurants, and bars. Each house is individually styled around private, lantern-lit courtyards and has been meticulously renovated by master craftsmen using centuries-old techniques. It has been lauded as a sanctuary of peace and quiet amid the bustle of Beijing-and there's now another reason to check in."

"The property has just been crowned "Most Beautiful Hotel in the World" by the Prix Versailles. The architecture and design awards were announced during a ceremony at UNESCO headquarters in Paris on Dec. 4, 2025. The judging panel, which this year included actor Emma Watson, commended the property for capturing the spirit of Beijing through its blends of traditional Hutong architecture and modern refinement."

Mandarin Oriental Qianmen opened in late 2024 as an intimate hutong retreat in Beijing offering immersive stays near Tiananmen Square and the Forbidden City. The property comprises 42 single-story homes across Caochang Hutong. Each house centers on a private lantern-lit courtyard and was renovated by master craftsmen using centuries-old techniques. Guest rooms feature exposed timber ceilings and decorative arts such as screen painting, lacquer and calligraphy, while works by local artists showcase contemporary Chinese creativity. A 130-year-old maple tree anchors the lobby. The property won the Prix Versailles Most Beautiful Hotel in the World award, announced at UNESCO on Dec. 4, 2025, with judges praising its blend of traditional hutong architecture and modern refinement.

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