Chengdu, China
The Temple House
Urban Elegance
What it is
An art-filled, service-oriented retreat with a Qing dynasty courtyard and of-the-moment black and white rooms.
What it isn't
Cramped. Rooms here begin at 678-square-feet, larger than many New York City apartments.
What we think
If you judged The Temple House by its cover, you might think a historic, themey getaway awaited you within. Nothing could be farther from the truth. Britain’s MAKE Architects transformed the property into a modernist, Instagrammable icon, where undulating walls echo the abundant rice terraces of Sichuan and a woven exterior mimics Chengdu’s weaving traditions. Rooms are equally alluring, with floor to ceiling windows and tech-forward touches that would wow the Jetsons: Bowers & Wilkins soundbars, Bose Bluetooth speakers, and an interactive TV that will stream your iOS and Android devices. (They’re also even more cozy than they are good looking, thanks to cloud-like down bedding and rain showers).
You're here because
The indoor pool looks like something from 1985 Oscar-winner Cocoon—in a good way—thanks to a skylight that could easily double for a spaceship. The adjacent courtyard spa goes old school, with holistic treatments and even wet shaves from the expert barber.
The Moment
You have to admit you don’t typically salivate over vegan food, but your perception changes in an instant under the lush trees of Mi Xun Teahouse. Is it the pineapple shortcrust cake? The rose and peach sap soup? You order another Si Chuan Dark Tea and furrow your brow in contemplation. Perhaps, you’ll be back tomorrow to be sure.
Restaurants & Bars
The Temple Café - Is an all-day restaurant offering breakfast, lunch and dinner menus as well as light snacks in bright and vibrant surroundings. Catering to the needs of discerning travellers, the cross-cultural menu includes international favourites and local delicacies. The Temple Café features a separate dining area and a grab-and-go retail counter. Guests have the option to either dine in or enjoy quality deli items, including sandwiches, pastries, desserts, coffee, fresh juices and soft drinks, in grab-and-go packages.
The Jing bar features a cocktail bar serving handcrafted cocktails, international spirits and local beer. Jing boasts an intimate, elegant atmosphere and includes a unique outdoor space with bar and landscaped seating, inviting guests to enjoy the exclusive open areas of The Temple House.
Location
Central Chengdu’s Sino-Ocean Taikoo Li Chengdu district, a 45-minute ride from the Temple House. Don’t miss the Tongleyuan Tea Workshop, set a block away, where tea is explored like fine wine.