I decided to indulge a little and stay at the luxurious
Kempinski Hotel in downtown Huizhou. Known for its European elegance and
high-end amenities, the Kempinski chain has a long history of excellence in
hospitality. Originally founded in Germany in 1897, Kempinski is now
headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland, and operates luxury properties in key
destinations around the globe. Their reputation for refined service and
impeccable accommodations sets them apart, and this particular location in
Huizhou is no exception (although with a few minor things that need their
attention). The brand was established by
Berthold Kempinski, a wine merchant in Berlin, who later expanded his business
into gastronomy and luxury lodging. Today,
Kempinski operates more than 70 hotels in 30 countries, each reflecting its
local culture while maintaining the brand’s commitment to quality.
The Kempinski Huizhou opened in 2011 as part of a large mixed-use complex comprising office buildings, shops, and even a mall. While the property shows its age in small details—such as minor wear on carpets and wallpaper—it retains its charm and luxury. My corner room on the 24th floor offered a little extra space and a touch of exclusivity. For 500 RMB (approximately $70), this room was an incredible value for a five-star experience.
Walking into the room, I immediately noticed the refined
touches that define a Kempinski property: a well-appointed work desk, plush
furnishings, and a spacious bathroom with both a shower and a bidet. While the
decor leaned toward traditional elegance, it did feel outdated, just slightly
worn in places. The view from my room was particularly captivating, showcasing
the cityscape of Huizhou, including landmarks like the Civic Center and the
nearby river.
Kempinski is renowned for its culinary offerings, and the
dining options at this location did not disappoint. The property boasts
multiple restaurants, including a high-end Japanese restaurant specializing in
teppanyaki, a traditional Chinese restaurant, and a Western-style buffet. While
the Japanese dining experience was a bit out of my budget—averaging around
1,000 RMB per meal—the buffet offered an indulgent experience at a more
accessible price.
The hotel’s fitness and recreation facilities are top-notch
(But I believe it was a 3rd party center). The fitness center, open
to both guests and local members, features modern equipment and personal
trainers, creating a high-end workout environment. The swimming area includes
both an indoor and an outdoor pool. While the outdoor pool looked inviting, the
kiddie pool was unfortunately empty, and the hot tub appeared less than
pristine—a rare miss for an otherwise exceptional property.
The Huizhou location, though slightly aged, upholds this
tradition with its attentive service and attention to detail. The staff were
polite and accommodating, ensuring that all my needs were met during my stay.
From the reception to the restaurant servers, everyone was professional and
friendly, embodying Kempinski’s motto of “Crafting Beautiful Performances.”
Rojo Rating:
- Location:
7
- Facilities:
4
- Amenities:
5
- Décor:
5
- Staff:
7
- Food:
8
- Cleanliness:
7
- Comfort:
6
- Uniqueness:
4
- Value:
7
Total: 60/100
