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Beholding Beauty: The Artistry Behind the Beijing Xitan Hotel
In the serene environment of Southwest Beijing, nestled against the backdrop of Tiger Mountain, stands the Beijing Xitan Hotel. A luxurious resort that skillfully marries grandeur with the subtleties of Japanese garden aesthetics, this establishment has easily become a beacon for retreat seekers and design aficionados alike. Completed in May 2022 after five years of meticulous planning and construction, the hotel encapsulates the artistry of Nikken Sekkei, one of Japan’s preeminent architectural firms.
Nature's Design: Crafting an Elevated Experience
The concept behind the Xitan Hotel is ambitious yet gracefully executed: the goal was to blend the nuanced beauty of Japanese aesthetics with the breathtaking mountain landscape of Beijing. This vision unfolded at the hands of Nikken Sekkei’s talented design team, including the renowned Kanji Nomura from the Nomura Garden Laboratory, whose work embodies a dedication to East Asian artistic traditions. The site, once a bustling local village, has been lovingly restored and preserved, showcasing the delicate relationship between history and design that is so central to East Asian philosophies.
The Garden as a Narrative: Zen Elements in Design
The hotel’s landscape is not merely a backdrop but a storyteller in its own right. Visitors meander through 17 courtyards connected by pathways that echo the naturally thriving environment, offering shifting views that embody every season's charm. The hotel is also designed with metaphysical thoughts in mind, reflecting traditional Eastern beliefs about geomancy, as the space aligns with the four divine beasts of Chinese mythology: Genbu, Seiryu, Suzaku, and Biyakko. This thoughtful arrangement invites guests to contemplate not just their surroundings but their internal landscapes as well.
Men and Stones: The Personal Touch in Craftsmanship
One unique aspect of the Xitan Hotel lies in the painstaking selection and arrangement of each stone used in the landscaping. The Nikken Sekkei team believes that each stone holds a specific ‘expression’ that should be lovingly revealed through the artistry of their placement. This philosophy ensures that every element resonates with the hotel's natural backdrop, providing guests not just with aesthetic wonder, but a tactile connection to the environment surrounding them.
Eye-Catching Features: Waterfalls and Harmonious Spaces
Among the hotel's most striking attributes is the Otaki waterfall, boasting a nearly seven-meter drop, skillfully constructed using traditional Japanese techniques to replicate the natural flow of mountain springs. The sound of falling water envelops guests as they arrive, creating an atmosphere that is tranquil yet inviting. The arrangement of spaces, with defined areas for introspection and relaxation, speaks volumes about the design ethos that values peace and connectivity with nature.
Where Art Meets Hospitality
The commitment to high-quality service is evident throughout the hotel and is reflected in its management under the esteemed Relais & Chateaux organization, noted for its exceptional standards in hospitality and gourmet dining. Each room serves as a private retreat, deliberately designed to offer guests uncompromising privacy while remaining interconnected with the lush gardens and breathtaking mountain views.
In sum, the Beijing Xitan Hotel represents more than just a luxury accommodation; it weaves a tapestry of history, culture, and breathtaking design into a singular experience. As nature thrives in this restored village setting, visitors are invited not only to escape the chaos of city life but to engage deeply with the artistry of their surroundings.
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