The Hotel It has been on my to-stay list for a while, and I finally checked into The Sukhothai Shanghai during my trip to Shanghai this year. Unlike its iconic, sprawling sister resort in Bangkok, the Shanghai sequel is an ultra-modern, LEED-certified boutique high-rise tucked away on Weihai Road in the vibrant Jing’an District. Jing’an is one of my favourite neighbourhoods in Shanghai and the hotel’s location is directly connected to the HKRI Taikoo Hui mall which is great convenience for shopping or dining. 

The moment I entered the lobby, it feels calm and zen-like. The hotel’s design takes on an understated elegance, curated by virtuoso architects Neri & Hu.

Expect clean, structural lines, a moody and dark aesthetic palette, and a pleasant signature scent wafting through the public areas. 

There are subtle nods to its Thai heritage—like the brass Tuk Tuk parked at its entrance and natural Thai silk accents. 

The Room I checked into the Studio Room, where every corner is so photogenic.  

Very spacious at 55-square-metre, it is a blend of living and bedroom areas. The interior takes on a contemporary elegance look. 

I love the minimalist aesthetic which features textured diatom silica clay walls in pastel hues and solid wood furniture. 

The centerpiece is undoubtedly the massive, plush bed where the mattress is comfortable. 

Tech-savvy features abound, from electronic black-out curtains to a 55-inch high-definition TV equipped with a high-end soundbar. 

The bathroom is equally generous with a massive walk-in rain shower, bathtub and a much-appreciated Japanese washlet with heating function, complete with premium amenities from Panpuri. 

On the plus side, there are also complimentary in-room refreshments — including beer, juices, and Nespresso coffee which are replenished daily. 

The Facilities Located on the basement is the dedicated wellness floor where I managed to check out a few times during my two nights stay. 

The hotel boasts a 25-metre indoor heated swimming pool and a 24-hour fitness studio that is quite well-equipped and better than the average standard hotel gyms. 

I did not manage to check this out but if you are in for a splurge, there is also The Sukhothai Spa where you can expect Thai-style treatments utilizing Thermae products. 

The Restaurants There are a few notable dining concepts here where breakfast takes place at Urban Cafe, a modern Thai restaurant. Unfortunately I did not manage to check out the breakfast spread during my stay. 

For dinner, La Scala is the hotel’s Michelin-recommended Italian concept. You can also grab a drink at Urban Lounge which houses a collection of over 120 gin labels and a customizable botanical herb trolley. 

Rants Nothing in particular.  

Overall Experience The Sukhothai Shanghai perfectly captures the essence of a modern design hotel. While it lacks the historic grandeur or sweeping Bund views of other heritage properties, its tranquil Neri & Hu interiors and immediate mall connectivity are the main draws for me to return again. 

The Sukhothai Shanghai 
380 Weihai Road, Jingan District, 200041 Shanghai 

For more information, check out The Sukhothai Shanghai Website.

Ranted by The Ranter