InterContinental Shanghai Ruijin5

This luxurious manor hotel is a rare green oasis in the heart of bustling Shanghai, enchanting guests with the atmosphere of a bygone era and magnificent gardens. The historic 1920s buildings, surrounded by centuries-old camphor trees, transport visitors to the setting of a classic film. Although some guests note signs of wear due to the buildings' venerable age, the hotel confidently compensates with impeccable hospitality and a personal touch. It's an ideal place for those seeking seclusion and tranquility without sacrificing proximity to key landmarks in the historic center.

Key Observations

Trajectory: The hotel's trajectory has noticeably improved. While earlier reviews complained about a catastrophic language barrier and poor communication, recent reviews feature enthusiastic praise for staff's impeccable English and instant problem-solving.

Legendary Service: Guests particularly highlight Chief Concierge Jimmy Shen, who finds creative solutions for any request — from renting specialized wheelchairs to orchestrating complex logistics.

Exclusive Club Privileges: The Executive Lounge in the VIP building is hailed by guests as one of the best in Asia, thanks to lavish seafood dinners (including hairy crabs) and premium service from the staff.

Historic Ambiance vs. Wear: The charm of old Shanghai is preserved through original furniture and architectural details, but some rooms on lower floors feel damp, and equipment needs updating.

Main Pros

• Huge well-maintained parkland spanning 5 hectares with ancient trees, perfect for evening strolls and wedding ceremonies.
• Outstanding service quality: frequent complimentary upgrades to suites (including presidential lofts), personalized greetings and treats on holidays.
• Stunning Executive Lounge with exquisite afternoon tea and a full evening buffet with delicacies.
• Location in the prestigious historical French Concession district, walking distance to Xintiandi and Tianzifang.
• Excellent heated indoor pool and spa area, ideal for deep relaxation.

Main Cons

• Age of the room inventory: some standard rooms show signs of wear in furniture, plumbing, and carpeting.
• Peculiarities of historic layouts: garden-level rooms on the first floor may suffer from an abundance of insects (gnats and mosquitoes), and some rooms have windows facing a blank wall or trees that completely block light.
• Isolated complaints about odd smells (dampness or sewage) in corridors of some older buildings on upper floors.

Overall Grade: A-

Hotel Overview

Basic Information:

• Name — InterContinental Shanghai Ruijin, an IHG Hotel (上海瑞金洲际酒店)
• Pinyin / romanization / transcription — Shànghǎi Ruìjīn Zhōujì Jiǔdiàn
• Address — No. 118 Ruijin 2nd Road, Huangpu District, Shanghai, 200020, China
• Contact details — tel. +86 21-64725222, email: [email protected]
• Year opened — 2013 (extensive renovation of the historic state guesthouse Ruijin Guest House)
• Number of rooms — 216
• Positioning and category — 5-star historic premium design hotel with an emphasis on Art Deco heritage and secluded parkland retreat. The first InterContinental brand hotel in China to receive the prestigious Heritage Hotel status

Description: The hotel complex occupies the grounds of a former state guesthouse where prominent Chinese political figures and foreign delegations stayed in the mid-20th century. It consists of several neoclassical brick villas from the 1920s and more modern buildings, seamlessly integrated into a landscaped park with lawns and ponds. The overall design blends refined old Shanghai chic with British colonial motifs: crystal chandeliers, marble floors, and heavy wooden furniture create the atmosphere of an exquisite private club.

Target Audience: History and vintage aesthetics lovers, couples seeking romantic seclusion, families with children, and business travelers who prefer tranquility over noisy skyscrapers.

Location & Transport

Location: The hotel is situated in a prestigious part of the French Concession. This district is famous for its plane-tree-lined avenues, cozy European cafes, boutiques, and well-preserved early-20th-century architecture, making it one of the most atmospheric areas in Shanghai.

Key Points of Interest: The nearest metro station, South Shaanxi Road (Lines 1, 10, and 12), is approximately 900 meters away. The creative quarter Tianzifang (Taikang Road) is about 1.5 km, and the stylish restaurant district Xintiandi is about 2 km. Shanghai Railway Station is 6 km away, Hongqiao Airport is 13 km, and Pudong International Airport is roughly 45 km.

Transport: The concierge desk promptly arranges taxis, and the metro is convenient for city trips. Golf carts circulate on the grounds as needed, helping guests travel from reception to villas with luggage.

Walkability: The hotel's surroundings are perfect for CityWalk strolls. The area is absolutely safe, well-kept, and appealing for exploration at any time of day.

Grade: A

Rooms & Cleanliness

Rooms are very spacious (from 40 m²), with high ceilings and classic layouts. Particularly popular are rooms in the Art Deco villas and VIP building, which feature exclusive decor. Beds are exceptionally comfortable, with soft premium linens guaranteeing excellent sleep. Bathrooms have quality fixtures, branded bathrobes, and high-end toiletries. However, the age of the buildings shows: lower-floor rooms in garden wings sometimes suffer from dampness, and tile grout in old showers occasionally has mold. Street noise isolation is perfect thanks to the park setting.

Grade: B+

Service

Service at the hotel has reached a new level. While the language barrier was once the main problem, key positions are now staffed by fluent English-speaking professionals. Guests regularly mention receptionists Yuki Xu and Carrie Yan for their warm welcome and quick resolution of any issues. The concierge team, led by the legendary Jimmy Shen, works true hospitality miracles, assisting international guests with specific problems and complex itinerary planning. Housekeeping is done twice daily and draws no complaints.

Grade: A

Dining

Breakfast is served at La Rue restaurant as a buffet and includes a rich selection of international, Chinese, and Japanese dishes: fresh juices, handmade noodle soups, dim sum, exquisite pastries, and cheeses. The hotel also features Xin Yuan Lou, a fine Chinese dining restaurant recognized by the Michelin guide. The real jewel is the Executive Lounge: the evening Happy Hour here resembles a full dinner with crab legs, Iberico ham, and a wide selection of quality alcohol.

Grade: A

Facilities & Amenities

The hotel's facilities fully match its five-star status. Guests enjoy a magnificent quiet heated indoor pool, a modern fitness center with a full range of equipment, a spa, and a quiet library with the atmosphere of an old gentlemen's club. The sprawling lawns are regularly used for luxurious weddings and banquets. The property also has EV chargers.

Grade: A-

Important Notes

• The historic character of the buildings imposes limitations: not all low-rise villas have elevators, which guests with limited mobility should consider (request ground-floor or accessible rooms in advance).
• Due to the abundance of greenery and water features on the grounds, especially in warm weather, garden-side rooms may have mosquitoes. The hotel provides fumigators, but it's advisable to bring extra repellent.
• On weekends, weddings are often held on the central lawn, so part of the park may be temporarily closed for regular walks, and there can be noise during the day.

Practical Tips for Guests

• Definitely choose a rate with Executive Lounge access (Club InterContinental allowance): the local Happy Hour with crabs, ham, and cocktails fully justifies the price difference.
• For the most authentic experience, book rooms in the Art Deco Residence or VIP building rather than the standard later-built wings.
• If traveling with elderly relatives or children, be sure to request a golf cart transfer between buildings at the time of booking — the property is truly vast.
• When staying on the lower floors of villas, ask the staff for an electric mosquito fumigator if one isn't provided in the room.
• If you need help with logistics, installing Chinese apps, or renting equipment (e.g., strollers), go straight to Chief Concierge Jimmy Shen — he speaks English perfectly.
• For beautiful photos, stroll the park in the evening: the illumination of the historic red brick villas and ancient trees looks fantastic.
• Check out the hotel's guided walking tour map: guests are offered free, interesting guided walks around the estate grounds.

Final Verdict

InterContinental Shanghai Ruijin is a magnificent historic estate that blends colonial chic and flawless concierge service in the heart of Shanghai.

Overall Grade: A-

Breakdown: Location: A | Rooms: B+ | Service: A | Dining: A | Facilities: A- | Value for Money: A-

Best for: heritage enthusiasts, romantic couples, and those wanting to escape the big-city bustle in a quiet green oasis.

Not for: lovers of futuristic glass skyscrapers and those expecting absolutely brand-new, tech-heavy rooms from a five-star hotel.