I took a look at the new Emperor Hotel in Beijing yesterday. I was shown around by the Guest Relations Officer, but she didn’t let me take pictures inside the rooms. She showed me all the different rooms, from the most basic to the suite which even had a walk-in closet. Most of the bathrooms had windows looking outside.

The concrete brick building was formerly used by the Qinghua University and has since undergone a complete transformation. The lobby is different from any hotel I have ever seen and consisted of a bright orange U-shaped sofa.

All rooms are named after Chinese emperors rather than having room numbers. The rooftop bar (Yin rooftop bar) is perhaps the most spectacular with views overlooking the Forbidden city. Drinks are a little pricey, but the views are great and it is very relaxing place. They even have a jacuzzi on the roof. Everyday at 7:30 p.m. they light lanterns on roof, which I am sure would be worth checking out.

Official website: www.theemperor.com.cn

Address: 33 Qihelou Rd, Beijing

Taxi drivers might not know Qihelou Road. The hotel is on the road directly east of the Forbidden City.