SAVHE Atour Hotel North Bund: An Oasis of Oriental Elegance in the Heart of Shanghai

My dear adventurers and lovers of unusual trips, welcome to the new series of travelogues on the Mr.M blog. Today’s blog post – review of the SAVHE Atour Hotel North Bund hotel was created in cooperation with The United Nations World Tourism Organization – UN Tourism and the SAVHE Atour Hotel. I thank you for the warm and cordial hospitality and the unforgettable experience in Shanghai.

SHANGHAI: A CITY AT THE CROSSROADS OF EAST AND WEST

Shanghai is a city that constantly takes your breath away. As someone who travels the world in search of the perfect blend of luxury, culture and authentic experience, I have to admit that this Chinese megalopolis surprised me in ways I didn’t expect. But what really left me speechless was staying at the SAVHE Atour Hotel on the North Bund, a place where Eastern philosophy of life meets modern luxury in a completely unique way.

SAVHE Hotel is a brand new premium lifestyle brand created by Atour Group, one of the leading hotel companies in China. Atour Group was founded in 2013 in Shanghai, and today it manages a network of over 1,600 hotels in more than 200 cities across China, with a total capacity of over 183,000 hotel rooms. The company is listed on the NASDAQ stock exchange under the symbol ATAT and is known for its innovative approach to hospitality that combines accommodation with an excellent retail experience.

SAVHE Hotel North Bund Shanghai is located at No. 522, North Sichuan Road, Hongkou District. This is the first hotel of this new premium brand and I can safely say, it has set extremely high standards for all that will come after it.

SAVHE: THE BREATH OF LIFE FROM THE HEART OF THE GAOLIGONG MOUNTAINS

The name SAVHE carries a deep symbolic meaning that reveals the philosophy of the entire brand. The word comes from the language of the Lisu people, an ethnic minority living in the mountainous Gaoligong region of Yunnan Province in southwestern China. In the language of the Lisu people, SAVHE means “breath” and it is this concept of breathing, life energy and harmonious existence that forms the basis of the entire hotel experience.

The Gaoligong Mountains are a true natural wonder, spanning over 600 kilometers and home to incredible biodiversity. Although they cover only 0.36% of China’s land area, these mountains are home to about 17% of all tall plant species in the country and 26% of vertebrate species. The Lisu people, who make up about 730,000 people, have lived in these mountains for centuries, cultivating a deep connection with nature and a traditional way of life.

The philosophy of SAVHE Hotel is inspired by this connection with nature and the eastern approach to living. Every breath, every moment of the stay is designed to give guests a sense of peace, renewal and cultural belonging, while at the same time exploring something completely new and contemporary.

SAVHE HOTEL: ORIENTAL GARDEN IN URBAN ENVIRONMENT

As soon as you step into SAVHE Hotel, you realize that this is no ordinary hotel. The design is inspired by traditional Eastern architecture and the concept of the “Oriental Garden”. Entering the hotel you will experience as a walk through the garden, a research journey that begins right at the entrance.

What sets SAVHE apart is the way in which sound, light, water and landscape are integrated with contemporary art to create a completely new spatial experience. The hotel is conceived as an oriental story about Time, Space and the Breath of Nature, a place where nature and human traces coexist in harmony.

One of the first things I noticed was the seated check-in service. In traditional luxury hotels, check-in can often be formal and rigid, you stand in front of the reception desk while staff perform administrative tasks. SAVHE has completely changed this paradigm. The reception of guests takes place in a relaxed atmosphere, inspired by Eastern rituals of hospitality. You sit comfortably while your host welcomes you, you have a feeling of warmth, intimacy and completely without tension.

INSTALLATION “LISTENING TO THE RAIN ON THE LAKE”

One of the most visually impressive elements of the hotel is the art installation called “Listening to Rain at the Lake”. This work combines light and sound art to create a soothing atmosphere. Apart from providing a calming ambience, this installation is also the perfect photogenic spot, ideal for those who want to preserve the memories of their stay at SAVHE Atour Hotel North Bund.

SAVHE TEA PAVILION: TRADITION IN THE MODERN TIME

Inspired by the tradition of ancient scholars and writers who welcomed their guests with tea, the tea pavilion at SAVHE Hotel is an extremely versatile space. It can be used for informal conversations, business meetings or simply relaxing. This space adds a sense of spontaneity and fun for guests, while making the most of the available space in an efficient manner.

RESTAURANT WITH A “TIDAL” CONCEPT

Hotel SAVHE Atour represents the premium category of hotels within the well-known Atour Group, and its restaurant is a real gem that offers guests a complete gastronomic experience throughout the day. The restaurant in the SAVHE hotel operates according to the “tidal” concept, in the morning it serves a buffet breakfast, later it transforms into a space for afternoon tea, candlelight dinners or even business meetings and co-working. This is a radical departure from the traditional hotel model where public spaces often remain empty after breakfast. I was especially delighted by the candlelit dinners next to the floor-to-ceiling windows with a view of the city skyline, the atmosphere was extremely fascinating especially because of the exceptional panorama of the city.

The restaurant serves Chinese, British, American, Asian and international cuisine in a modern setting, making it an ideal place for both business meetings and romantic dinners. A special feature of this hotel is the free meal service which includes a buffet breakfast, afternoon tea and a late evening snack, which means that guests actually get three meals a day. This is a rare privilege that significantly enhances the overall experience of the stay.

SAVHE Breakfast: The Best Start of the Day

Breakfast at SAVHE Atour Hotel North Bund is particularly impressive. Guests can choose between continental, American and buffet breakfast, which provides great flexibility depending on taste and dietary needs. From my experience, I can say that the breakfast is varied and tasty, with local specialties, hot dishes, fresh pastries and fruit.

For those in a hurry or having to leave the hotel early, there is also a grab-and-go breakfast option available, where guests can request a convenient SAVHE breakfast box, and complimentary coffee and croissants are available anytime on request. This attention to the different needs of guests shows a high level of service.

SAVHE Afternoon Tea: Tradition with Style

One of the most appreciated aspects of SAVHE Atour Hotel North Bund Restaurant is the Oriental Afternoon Tea served from 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM daily on the sixth floor of the hotel. Guests can enjoy a self-service tea set or choose to experience a traditional Gongfu tea ceremony. This service includes unlimited tea, coffee, fruit and snacks, allowing guests to relax in a peaceful environment while exploring Shanghai.

SAVHE Late Evening Snack: An Unexpected Addition

SAVHE Atour Hotel North Bund also offers a complimentary evening snack from 21:30 to 23:00, ideal for guests returning late from city tours or business meetings. During my stay, I experienced the wonton (Chinese dumplings) served during the evening snack and I can tell you that they are very popular here.

SAVHE Quality of service and staff

The staff of the restaurant stands out for its professionalism and friendliness. Although some team members use translation apps to facilitate communication with foreign guests, the service is very good and the staff is friendly and always ready to help every guest. The hotel continuously works to improve the English language of its employees in order to further improve communication with international guests.

The design of the restaurant is inspired by the concept of an oriental garden, where sounds, light, running water and landscape are integrated with contemporary art. This approach creates a unique ambience that adds to the overall dining experience.

For those who want to explore the local cuisine, there are numerous restaurants in the immediate vicinity of the hotel with a variety of gastronomic offers, from traditional Chinese cuisine to international options.

SAVHE Atour Hotel North Bund provides one of the most comprehensive dining experiences in its segment, combining quality food, exceptional service and a unique ambiance. With free meals throughout the day, carefully selected menus and dedicated staff, the hotel’s restaurant is the right destination for all hedonists, lovers of good food and quality service.

SAVHE EASTERN WELLNESS EXPERIENCE AND PRIVACY CARE

SAVHE puts a lot of emphasis on the emotional value of the customer experience and on leading to a premium lifestyle. The brand highlights two key features: “Eastern wellness experience” and “Privacy Care”.

SAVHE: THE WELLNESS DETAILS

For a wellness experience, SAVHE Atour Hotel North Bund integrates careful details through various aspects. Hot water is available in many areas of the hotel including the gym and restaurant. The meals follow the principles of the traditional Chinese diet based on the Five Elements and whole grains. Only gentle teas such as black tea and rock tea are served, which nourish the stomach. Air conditioners are designed and placed so that they never blow directly on guests. The bedding used by guests is from Atour Planet’s “Deep Sleep” series, designed to balance comfort, temperature and support in a natural way that promotes perfect rest and quality sleep. The bedding is made of 80×80 raw cotton which significantly reduces seed granules, making the fabric softer, smoother and gentler on the skin.

I was particularly impressed by the sleepwear, the double-layer pajamas made of pure cotton help to relax the tension of the skin before sleep. Unlike traditional hotel bathrobes, this hotel relaxation wear can be worn by guests even in the restaurant, avoiding the discomfort of sitting in a bathrobe during a meal.

SAVHE Privacy Details

SAVHE Atour Hotel North Bund has incorporated numerous details that prioritize the care of privacy. On the ground floor, frosted glass and traditional oriental screens create discreet, private spaces. The elevator has a “no floor display” design, others in the lobby cannot see which floor you are going to. This is a small but extremely thoughtful detail that provides guests with an additional sense of security and discretion.

SAVHE Butler Services

All these details of wellness and privacy are seamlessly delivered through 100% butler service, ensuring attentive and dedicated attention throughout your stay. ALL butlers provide a complete laundry service. The fitness center is equipped with Precor equipment from Seattle and offers hot water and bananas for rehydration and carbohydrate replenishment after a hard workout.

The “one-click deep sleep” function is something that I immediately loved, with one click all the lights and the TV turn off instantly, creating a sleep-friendly environment that helps guests fall into a deep sleep quickly. Sound insulation is also at an extremely high level, recognizing noise as a pain point in the hotel industry, SAVHE Atour Hotel North Bund has invested considerable effort and resources in reinforcing doors, windows and walls for superior sound insulation.

SAVHE ATOUR HOTEL NORTH BUND ROOMS: 133 OASIS OF PEACE WITH CITY VIEW

SAVHE North Bund Shanghai hotel has 133 rooms, all with a view of the city. Each room is equipped with air conditioning, a flat-screen TV with satellite channels, a seating area, a desk and a bathroom with a separate toilet and shower.

What makes the difference are the details, such as the bath products are from the luxury brand Le Labo, the towels are thick and soft, and guests can choose between soft and hard pillows. The rooms also offer different lighting schemes adapted to different needs, from working to relaxing ambience. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the hotel. What you should know are the approximate check-in and check-out times from the hotel: Check-in is usually from 2:00 p.m., while check-out is at 12:00 p.m.

At SAVHE Hotel North Bund Shanghai, the fragrance personalization experience is a premium service that allows guests to customize the atmosphere of their room according to personal preferences. This practice is called an “aroma menu” or “scent menu” and is part of a broader sensory marketing strategy used in the hotel industry.

Smell has a powerful effect on our emotions and memories because the human nose can remember smells with 65% accuracy after one year, compared to only 50% of visual impressions after three months. This is precisely why luxury hotels like SAVHE pay special attention to this aspect of the guest experience.

Guests can often choose from a variety of aromatherapy options that include essential oils such as lavender for relaxation, citrus notes for refreshment, vanilla for warmth, or white tea for calmness. This hotel also offers specialized in-room diffusers, allowing guests full control over the intensity and duration of the fragrance during their stay.

SAVHE LOCATION: NORTH BUND, SHANGHAI’S HIDDEN GEM

SAVHE North Bund Shanghai Hotel is located in the Hongkou District, on the northern part of the Bund, an area that may be less known to tourists, but offers something that the main tourist area cannot, which is true local authenticity and perfect panoramic views without the crowds.

The North Bund is where Shanghai’s history meets its bright future. Once a busy port, today it offers glittering towers, green coastal promenades, art deco bridges and cultural landmarks. From the White Magnolia Plaza observation deck (320 meters high, opening in April 2025) to the historic Postal Museum housed in a neoclassical building from 1924, there really is so much to explore in this part of town.

WITH SAVHE YOU ARE ALWAYS IN THE HEART OF THE CITY

The SAVHE North Bund Shanghai hotel is located just steps away from the International Cruise Terminal subway station, making it extremely accessible. The Waibaidu Bridge (Garden Bridge), built in 1907 as the first steel bridge in China and an enduring symbol of Shanghai, is about a 10-minute walk away. Zhapulu Bridge is only 350 meters from the hotel. The main tourist area of ​​the Bund can be reached in about 15 to 20 minutes of walking, and the famous Yu Garden in half an hour. From the hotel you can see the spectacular skyline of Pudong with the Oriental Pearl Tower and the Shanghai Tower.

Hongkou District has a rich history, it was a safe haven for around 20,000 Jews during World War II, and traces of this heritage can still be found in the buildings and parks. This neighborhood immerses you in traditional Shanghainese life without straying far from the city center. Some of the best-preserved ancient longtangs (communities in narrow passages) and shikumen (Shanghai passage houses) are still inhabited by people and are their homes.

Shanghai: The metropolis where East meets West

Shanghai is a city with a population of almost 25 million inhabitants, the financial center of China and one of the most dynamic metropolises in the world. The town that was once a small fishing village has transformed into a global hub that combines tradition and modernity in a unique way.

BUND: OPEN-AIR MUSEUM OF ARCHITECTURE

The Bund (Waitan) is a famous coastal promenade about 1.5 km long on the west bank of the Huangpu River. Once a quiet fishing port, the Bund began to change in 1843 when Shanghai was forced to open up to foreign trade. Western powers rushed to build banks, merchant houses, and consulates, creating a variety of architectural styles that can be seen today.

Today, the Bund is a veritable open-air museum of colonial history with over 52 historical buildings, from Neoclassicism, through Gothic and Baroque, to Art Deco. Notable buildings include the HSBC building, the Fairmont Peace Hotel (built in 1929 in the Art Deco style), the Customs House with its Big Ben-like tower, and the Bank of China, the only building designed by Chinese architects.

YU GARDEN: AN OASIS OF PEACE

Yu Garden (Yuyuan) is a classic Chinese garden founded in 1559 during the Ming Dynasty. Covering an area of ​​2 hectares, there are 6 Suzhou-style areas, a 14-meter-high man-made mountain, a 3.3-meter, 5-ton exceptional stone, and the famous Nine Turns Bridge leading to the Huxinting Teahouse dating back to 1784. The entrance fee is 40 yuan in high season (April-June, September-November) or 30 yuan in low season.

SHANGHAI TOWER AND PUDONG

The Shanghai Tower is the third tallest building in the world with a height of 632 meters and 128 floors. Spiral design with 120 degree twist reduces wind pressure by 24%. The observation deck “Top of Shanghai” on the 118-119 floor offers a view from 546-552 meters high. The elevators are among the fastest in the world, reaching a speed of 18 m/s and reaching the top in 55 seconds. J Hotel on the 120th floor is the “highest hotel in the world”.

The Oriental Pearl TV Tower (468m) is another symbol of the city, designed with 11 steel spheres inspired by ancient Chinese poetry. The lookout is located at 259-263m, and the space capsule at 351m. At the foot of the tower is the Shanghai History Museum.

NANJING ROAD AND THE FRENCH CONCESSION

Nanjing Road is the main commercial street of Shanghai, 5.5 kilometers long with over 600 shops. About 1.7 million people visit it every day, which makes it one of the busiest pedestrian zones in the world. Here you will find everything from luxury brands to traditional Chinese souvenirs.

The French concession is a completely different atmosphere, quiet streets lined with plane trees, elegant cafes, numerous boutiques and shops, as well as the very architecture that teleports you to Paris. This is an ideal place for an afternoon walk, coffee and people watching. Typical Tudor-style houses and mansions from the 1920s make this neighborhood one of the most photogenic in the city.

ZHUJIAJIAO: THE VENICE OF SHANGHAI

If you have time for a day trip, Zhujiajiao Water Town is a must-see destination. Known as the “Venice of Shanghai”, this small town has 1,700 years of history. Walking along the cobbled streets next to the canal, riding traditional wooden boats and tasting local specialties like zongzi (glutinous rice wrapped in bamboo leaves) make this an unforgettable experience.

SHANGHAI: PRACTICAL TIPS FOR TOURISTS

BEST TIME TO VISIT SHANGHAI

The most ideal periods to visit Shanghai are spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) when temperatures are pleasant and rainfall is moderate. Summer can be extremely hot and humid, while winter is cold, but rarely with snowfall.

TRANSPORTATION IN SHANGHAI

The metro system in Shanghai is extremely efficient and also has signs in English. For taxis and ridesharing, the Didi app (accessible through Alipay) is the best option. The maglev train connects Pudong Airport to the city in just 8 minutes, an experience worth trying in itself. For booking attractions, I recommend using the WeChat app or the official website in advance, do not rely on buying tickets on the spot.

FOOD YOU MUST TRY IN SHANGHAI

Shanghai cuisine offers unforgettable dishes: Xiaolongbao (dumplings filled with meat and soup), Hongshao rou (caramelized pork), Scallion pancakes (pancakes with spring onions). For an authentic experience, I recommend the Nanxiang Mantou Dian restaurant in the Yu Garden complex.

MY PERSONAL SAHVE EXPERIENCE: THE DETAILS THAT MAKE THE DIFFERENCE

During my stay at the SAVHE North Bund Shanghai Hotel, I noticed countless small details that altogether created the impression of an unforgettable experience. When I arrived after a long flight, I was greeted with a warm welcome by the staff and immediately secured a room, no waiting, no formalities with the option of breakfast until they brought my luggage. The butler introduced me to all the functions of the room, including the lighting system that has multiple modes for different needs.

The first morning I woke up rested and refreshed, probably due to the excellent combination of sound insulation, quality bedding and air conditioning that doesn’t blow directly on you. The breakfast was extremely rich, from traditional Chinese dishes to Western options. I especially enjoyed the dim sum specialties.

Afternoon tea, which is included in the room rate for all guests, has become my favorite ritual. Every day I would return to the hotel around 3 pm to enjoy fragrant tea and light snacks while reading magazines and books from the hotel library. The space is designed to invite relaxation, I couldn’t help but feel how the stress of the big city simply melts away in the modern oasis of peace of the SAVHE hotel.

Communication with the staff was excellent thanks to the WeChat app, the butler would contact me to check if I needed anything and every request was fulfilled within minutes. Even when I asked for extra pillows late at night because I couldn’t sleep, they came in less than five minutes. This efficiency without being intrusive is something I rarely see in hotels.

One of the most beautiful moments was walking to North Bund Park at dusk, watching the lights of Pudong come on one by one as the sky changes colors. I could see the Shanghai Tower, the Oriental Pearl and the Jin Mao Tower glittering on the horizon, a view that will remain in my memory forever. The very feeling of knowing that a room with a comfortable bed and herbal tea was waiting for me made that moment even sweeter!

Why does SAVHE Hotel deserve your attention?

SAVHE Atour Hotel North Bund Shanghai represents a new era in Chinese hotel industry. This is not just a place to stay, it is a whole new experience that teaches you about Chinese culture, philosophy and way of life. From the moment you check into the hotel, to the last sip of herbal tea before bed, every detail is designed to give you a sense of peace and tranquility.

What I can especially praise is the impeccable design, the friendly staff, the ritual of afternoon tea and late night snacks, as well as the free laundry service.

For business travelers, SAVHE Hotel offers the perfect environment to work with a tea pavilion that doubles as an informal meeting space, a gym equipped with premium equipment and impeccable butler service. For those looking for a romantic escape from reality, candlelit dinners overlooking the Shanghai skyline and carefully designed ambiance make this hotel an ideal choice.

As someone who has stayed in a number of luxury hotels around the world, I can say that SAVHE Atour Hotel North Bund Shanghai hotel delivers something truly unique, an authentic Chinese experience wrapped in a contemporary, elegant framework that will leave a mark on your memories long after you leave Shanghai.

I would like to take this special opportunity to express my gratitude to the United Nations World Tourism Organization – UN Tourism and the SAVHE Atour hotel team for their exceptional hospitality and unforgettable experience. Their dedication to preserving cultural heritage through modern hospitality sets new standards in the industry.

Have you already had the opportunity to visit Shanghai, this unique city where the oriental tradition seamlessly intertwines with the futuristic rhythm of life? Or maybe you are just planning to discover the magic of Shanghai, its colorful districts, markets, world gastronomic scene and distinctive skyscrapers that leave no one indifferent? Maybe you decide to stay in one of the hotels from the Atour group of hotels during your stay in Shanghai or another city in China.

Feel free to leave your impressions, comments or questions below the text, or contact me via email and social networks. All information is available on the CONTACT page.

See you soon, with a new story from the heart of the Far East!

With Love from Shanghai,
Mr.M

This post is sponsored by The United Nations World Tourism Organization (UN Tourism) and SAVHE Atour Hotel North Bund Shanghai, as well as other local partners who selflessly supported this project. This post is my personal and honest review of the destination experience.