Nestled in the heart of the picturesque Jiuzhaigou valley, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, a brand-new Ritz-Carlton Reserve is all set to open its doors this month (June 2023).
In addition to its breathtaking location and exceptional amenities, the opening of the Ritz-Carlton Reserve in Jiuzhaigou brings exciting news as it proudly becomes the first Ritz-Carlton Reserve in China and the sixth in the world.
The Perfect Location in Jiuzhaigou: Rissai Valley
Situated approximately 400 kilometers from Chengdu, this new estate offers easy access to an enchanting natural wonderland. Within a short 15-minute ride, guests can reach Jiuzhaigou National Park, renowned for its lush forests, magnificent multi-level waterfalls, and captivating turquoise lakes with water so clear that it unveils the mesmerizing underwater landscape. Jiuzhaigou’s awe-inspiring scenery was even featured in the movie Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon directed by Ang Lee.
However, the area holds even more treasures beyond Jiuzhaigou. Just a 1.5-hour car drive away lies another UNESCO World Heritage Site, Huanglong Valley, which translates to “Yellow Dragon Valley” in English. This mesmerizing destination boasts natural pools, snow-capped peaks, diverse forest ecosystems, and breathtaking limestone formations. The region is also home to endangered wildlife, including the iconic giant panda and the rare Sichuan golden snub-nosed monkey.
Apart from offering breathtaking sceneries, the region is famous for being a home to nine Tibetan villages that still practice centuries-old culture and traditions.
New Ritz-Carlton Design Concept
Rissai Valley, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve, is a resort that goes beyond mere architectural beauty and delves into the realm of profound philosophy. Designed with sustainability in mind, every aspect of the resort’s impact on the natural environment has been carefully considered by the design team. By seamlessly blending the architecture with the surrounding environment, the Ritz-Carlton Reserve establishes a strong connection to the local culture and nature through the careful selection of materials.
The landscape design of Rissai Valley, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve, constructed by WATG, is a magnificent vision from acclaimed landscape architect, John Pettigrew. John is renowned for his ability to masterfully sculpt landscapes that resonate with the six senses while at the same time giving tribute to sustainability. “I have a deep love of nature, and this is reflected in the raw materials that I use in my design landscape architecture plans. Local raw materials are sourced keeping the delicate balance of the natural world. Water is an intrinsic element in my art. The sound of water flowing, trickling, gushing or cascading creates a sense of perception, a feeling of freshness, of being alive.”
Leading charge in crafting the resort’s interior designs was Jaya Ibrahim, whose visionary concepts harmoniously complement the architecture. Jaya closely collaborated with WATG, aiming to achieve a contemporary design that reflects the local village dwellings. The architectural concept combines modern elements with vernacular aesthetics, representing the region’s cultural heritage, brought together by the meticulous selection of materials, colors, finishes, accessories, and antiques.
Luxurious Facilities with a Local Touch
The Rissai Valley, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve features 87 luxury villas, each designed to mirror the surrounding mountain peaks. The stunning views on the picturesque mountains and ancient Tibetan villages, offer guests “the sense of being alone yet part of something much greater.”
The dining experience at Rissai Valley, much like every aspect of the resort, is carefully curated. Recognizing that food not only fosters connections between individuals but also connects people to the essence of a place, dining at Rissai Valley is a journey of exploration that blends the familiar with the unknown. The estate offers two Chinese cuisine restaurants, a Mediterranean restaurant, and a stylish Lobby Lounge where guests can indulge in a diverse range of culinary delights.
The spa at Rissai Valley provides a distinct local touch, incorporating extraordinary practices like breath flow and eaglewood vibration rituals, creating a profound connection to the place, and offering guests a sanctuary for relaxation and rejuvenation. Moreover, the resort boasts a 24-hour fitness center, catering to guests’ wellness routines. Ritz-Carlton Reserve is also well-equipped to host a range of events, from weddings to business gatherings.
Cultural Immersion at Rissai Valley
To further facilitate communication and cultural immersion, Rissai Valley offers a range of additional services and activities, including the Himalaya bowl ritual and meditation, Tibetan soap production, Tibetan yoga sessions, flower arrangement classes, the moon-shaped fan workshop, and many others. Through these engaging experiences, guests can actively engage with the culture, gain deeper understanding of the local traditions and enhance their overall immersion in the destination.
Rissai Valley’s Commitment to Cultural Preservation
The Rissai Valley, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve in Jiuzhaigou represents a remarkable example of a forward-looking travel facilities. It embodies a profound commitment to sustainability, actively promoting the preservation and celebration of the local indigenous culture and the surrounding ecosystem, all while ensuring the utmost comfort for its guests. We look forward to working with the Rissai Valley, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve in Jiuzhaigou to pursue sustainable endeavors and pave the way for a future where tourism and conservation go hand in hand, creating a harmonious balance between visitor experiences and the protection of natural and cultural heritage.
