Hotels announce new strategic partnership

Design Hotels and Jinmao Pureal Mountain Lijiang have announced a strategic partnership, marking the hotel's official entry into the Design Hotels global portfolio under Marriott International.

Located at the foot of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, the property becomes part of a curated global network of independent, design-led hotels known for prioritizing original architecture, cultural authenticity and place-based storytelling over standardized luxury formats.

Design Hotels, which operates more than 300 member properties across over 60 countries, is recognized for championing hotels that function as cultural expressions of their destinations. Through its integration with Marriott Bonvoy, the brand connects independent hospitality concepts with a global travel ecosystem.

At the signing ceremony, Gavin Yu, chief development officer of Marriott International Greater China, said the hotel reflects a strong alignment with Design Hotels' core values.

"The property integrates Naxi cultural heritage with the poetic landscape of the snow mountain," he said. "Its original design meets the rigorous standards of Design Hotels, and we look forward to its development through global platforms and networks."

Positioned as a destination retreat, Jinmao Pureal Mountain Lijiang is known for its "one room, one destination" philosophy, attracting travelers seeking immersive stays rather than conventional sightseeing. The hotel also plays a wider role in linking Lijiang's natural ecology, Naxi culture, and evolving high-end tourism demand.

Designed by P49 Design, the property adopts a village-inspired courtyard layout, using local stone, timber, and slate, while combining minimalist interiors with Naxi crafts such as Dongba paper lanterns and handwoven textiles.

Co-creation is central to its operating model, involving local residents, craftsmen, and guests in shared activities that connect hospitality with community life.

Mark Wu, vice-president and general manager of operations at Beijing ArcadiaPlace Hotel Management Co, said the partnership reflects a long-developed model of community-based hospitality around the snow mountain region.

He noted that the hotel has built a "three-party co-creation ecosystem" involving guests, residents, and the property, forming a distinctive quiet luxury identity aligned with Design Hotels' emphasis on originality and local culture.

The partnership also reflects Lijiang's broader shift from sightseeing tourism toward experience-driven stays, reinforcing its position as an emerging international mountain destination where design, culture and landscape intersect.