Jin Jiang Tower Proposed

Dec 16, 2012

Jin Jiang Tower Shanghai may not be as recognizable as the larger, more familiar brand hotels, but agents should seriously consider this property for clients who want resort-class service and accommodations in Shanghai. Located in the former French Concession near the Huai Hai Road Central Business District, Jin Jiang Tower is the flagship hotel of Jin Jiang Hotels Group, one of the largest hotel groups in Asia. The 42-story hotel offers 582 newly remodeled rooms and suites and is one of the most well-known buildings in Shanghai.

Walking in the cavernous front lobby, I noticed that this award-winning, five-star hotel deserves its accolades. On the far wall, replicas of signatures from more than 370 heads of state, celebrities and foreign dignitaries who have stayed here serve as a permanent testimonial. Dignitaries include past presidents from the U.S., U.K., France, Germany, Israel, Singapore and the Republic of Korea.

“Our online marketing efforts have diversified our hotel business from a mostly domestic market to a growing international clientele, which is now about 40 percent of our occupancy,” said Judy Zhou, manager of the Jin Jiang Tower.

The estimate seemed accurate to me on a recent visit, based on the number of businessmen and international travelers from the U.S., U.K. and Australia that I observed each morning.

“For our business and tourism guests, our central location is critical,” Zhou said. “Jin Jiang Towers is a short taxi or subway ride to the Bund as well as some of the city’s largest commercial shopping centers and major international business offices.”

Business Deluxe
The Villar House consists of several upper floors of exquisitely decorated executive suites, meeting rooms and lounge areas. I found the contemporary Digital Deluxe Rooms ideal for the business traveler. Each offers a multi-functional, flat-screen television, high-definition channels and on-demand video in a spacious room layout. The broadband Internet was fast and responsive.

“Our regular business clients enjoy a 360-degree-outdoor sightseeing balcony that skirts the upper hotel,” Zhou said. “They can discuss business or enjoy tea while taking in the Shanghai city lights.”

Jin Jiang Tower’s eight restaurants and bars offer a variety of gourmet cuisines. The Semillon Cafe is the most popular, featuring 24-hour international dining and serving an extensive a la carte menu throughout the day, as well as elaborate buffets. The Blue Heaven Revolving Restaurant, which comprises the entire 41st floor, is advertised as one of the largest revolving restaurants in the Far East.

“Through Jin Jiang’s own culinary school, we develop award-winning chefs to work at our restaurants where they provide a daily variety of specialty Chinese and international dishes, with fun menus that change with the seasons or events,” Zhou said.

For business clients, Wi-Fi access is free throughout the hotel. The fitness club, a Romanesque-style spa and a spacious swimming pool are sumptuous indulgences on par with high-end resorts.

The hotel is travel agent-friendly with a variety of special events and discounts posted each month on the hotel’s website. According to Zhou, travel agent commissions range from 10 to 20 percent, based on the length of stay and the number of rooms booked.