A New Chapter for a Shanghai Legend
There are hotels that serve travellers, and then there are hotels that define cities. The Peace Hotel in Shanghai has long been the latter. Now, this Art Deco crown jewel is stepping into a new era — and it’s dressed in Raffles luxury. By 2027, the iconic Fairmont Peace Hotel will officially transform into the Raffles Peace Hotel Shanghai, in a move that’s equal parts homage and haute couture.
As a travel editor, I’ve seen countless heritage hotels lean into their legacy — some succeed, many falter. But when Accor and Jinjiang International Group announced their partnership to bring the Raffles name to this beloved landmark, my curiosity turned into anticipation. Raffles doesn’t just refurbish buildings. It curates experiences, and with this, Shanghai’s hotel scene just got a serious upgrade.
From Cathay Elegance to Raffles Glamour
Built in 1929 by Sir Victor Sassoon as the Cathay Hotel, the Peace Hotel has lived many lives. It’s been a refuge for creatives, a magnet for diplomats, and a backdrop for countless untold stories. Its transformation into a Raffles property is not a reinvention, but a revival — one that promises to marry British etiquette, Asian grace, and Chinese soul in a way only Raffles can.
CEO Omer Acar of Raffles Hotels & Resorts put it best: “This magnificent hotel is a precious gem.” And let’s be honest — in a city like Shanghai, where the skyline reinvents itself every five minutes, holding onto heritage requires both intention and imagination.
A Rebirth That Celebrates the Past
But make no mistake — this isn’t just another luxury makeover. The Raffles Peace Hotel Shanghai will remain open during its transformation, allowing guests to witness the magic in motion. With preservation efforts backed by China’s National Key Cultural Relic Protection Unit, every detail — from the gilded interiors to the artful facades — will honor the building’s grand legacy.
Yet the new Raffles experience will go beyond aesthetics. Think bespoke service, curated art collections, next-level cuisine, and a design that reflects modern Shanghai while whispering stories from its glamorous past.
Glamour with Global Resonance
This isn’t Raffles’ first rodeo in China. With destinations in Macau, Shenzhen, and Hainan — and global icons in Singapore, Paris, and London — the brand knows how to localize luxury. Ultimately, what makes this debut feel monumental is Shanghai itself — a city that pulses with energy, legacy, and reinvention. For more information, please visit group.accor.com or follow us on X, Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram and TikTok.
By 2027, Raffles Peace Hotel Shanghai won’t just be a place to check in. It’ll be a reason to go to Shanghai.
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