Aman at Summer Palace, Beijing

Aman at Summer Palace, Beijing offers the world’s most exclusive imperial stay, set within the historic Summer Palace grounds as the only hotel on the UNESCO site. Its 51 suites occupy meticulously restored 18th-century courtyard pavilions, blending Qing dynasty architecture with Aman’s serene luxury. Guests enjoy unparalleled access to the palace at dawn before crowds arrive, a privilege unmatched by #2 The Peninsula Shanghai’s Bund experience. Rated 98% guest satisfaction in 2023, it outperforms #3 Mandarin Oriental Pudong’s skyline focus with truly historic immersion. At $1,200 per night, it’s 40% pricier than the average high-end Beijing hotel but delivers a once-in-a-lifetime setting with private guided tours of the Forbidden City included.