Peace Hotel | Shanghai, China

Introduction to the Peace Hotel

Located on the iconic The Bund in Shanghai, China, the Peace Hotel stands as a shimmering beacon of the city’s rich heritage and architectural grandeur. This famous building is more than just a hotel; it's a symbol of Shanghai’s blend of East-meets-West culture and a gem among the city’s historical landmarks. Offering guests a glimpse into a glamorous past, the Peace Hotel continues to attract travelers and culture seekers alike.

History and Architecture

The Peace Hotel actually consists of two stunning buildings—the North Building (Sassoon House) and the South Building (formerly the Palace Hotel)—both facing The Bund but separated by bustling Nanjing Road. Sassoon House, built between 1926 and 1929 by Sir Victor Sassoon, was one of the first skyscrapers in the Eastern Hemisphere. At ten stories and a remarkable 83 meters tall (including its copper pyramid roof), it was an architectural marvel of its time and remains a prime example of Shanghai's art deco style today.

The Sassoon family, of British Sephardic Jewish origins, established a real estate empire here, and Sassoon House was their crown jewel. Designed by famed architects Palmer and Turner, the building is characterized by its granite facing and terracotta roof and carries a consistent art deco aesthetic that extends from exterior facade to interior décor.

North Building – From The Cathay to The Fairmont Peace Hotel

The North Building initially housed the legendary Cathay Hotel, notable for luxurious accommodations and modern amenities such as indoor plumbing at a time when it was rare in China. Among its distinctive offerings were "national suites", each decorated in the style of different nations including Japan, India, and China — a fascinating reflection of Shanghai’s international flair.

Following periods of political change and renovation, the building reopened in 2010 after extensive restoration and is now known as the Fairmont Peace Hotel. With 270 guest rooms, 39 suites, and iconic venues like Victor's Café, the hotel seamlessly blends heritage charm with contemporary luxury. Its rooftop terrace offers panoramic views of the Huangpu River and the ultra-modern Pudong skyline, making it a favorite spot for visitors wanting to experience both the past and future of Shanghai.

South Building – The Swatch Art Peace Hotel

Across Nanjing Road stands the South Building, built in 1908 and originally known as the Palace Hotel. Distinguished by its Renaissance-style brick veneer and six stories, this building boasts the honor of having Shanghai’s first elevators. Over the years, this building has taken on a unique artistic life; today, it serves as the Swatch Art Peace Hotel, offering residency apartments and studios for international artists.

Visitors interested in Shanghai's cultural monuments will appreciate the South Building’s heritage façade and public rooms, which have been lovingly restored in time for the 2010 World Expo. It’s a vibrant cultural site where past and present converge, continuing to inspire creativity and city exploration.

Why Visit the Peace Hotel?

• Architectural Excellence: Experience one of Shanghai’s most important historical buildings characterized by an exquisite art deco style.
• Cultural Heritage: Learn about the diverse influences reflected in the hotel's design and history—connecting East and West.
• Historical Significance: The site played key roles during various political eras, including the Communist takeover and the Cultural Revolution.
• Rich Hospitality Legacy: From luxury accommodations in the Cathay Hotel era to modern-day Fairmont elegance, the Peace Hotel continues a proud tradition of welcoming guests.
• Artistic Hub: The South Building offers a unique space where art and history meet, showcasing international artists in residence.

Exploring the Peace Hotel With AudaTours

If you’re planning to visit Shanghai’s historical landmarks and cultural sites, the Peace Hotel is a must-see stop on your journey. With AudaTours’ self-guided audio tours, you can explore at your own pace and uncover fascinating stories behind the building’s iconic architecture, its illustrious guests, and the role it played in Shanghai's dynamic history.

Our Echoes of Shanghai: A Journey Through Time and Towers tour immerses you in not only the Peace Hotel but other major city landmarks, giving you a rich context of Shanghai’s cultural heritage, making your visit truly unforgettable.

“The Peace Hotel is not merely a monument to the past; it is a living narrative of Shanghai’s cultural and architectural evolution.”

Plan Your Visit

Accessible and captivating, the Peace Hotel invites you to experience a slice of history with the comforts of today. Whether admiring it from The Bund or stepping inside to soak up its timeless ambiance, this landmark is central to any Shanghai city exploration.

To learn more or to purchase the Echoes of Shanghai tour and others, visit AudaTours - Echoes of Shanghai: A Journey Through Time and Towers and embark on an enriched adventure across Shanghai’s most treasured sites.