By Nourah Khan
Travel Writer
The Times Kuwait
During my trip to the Chinese capital in June, I had the pleasure of spending three nights at the iconic Peninsula Beijing. The experience was a perfect blend of refined luxury and a prime location that made exploring this historic city incredibly convenient. From the moment I arrived, I sensed this would be a truly exceptional stay—from the warm welcome and personalized service to the impressive details of my Premier King Suite, which exceeded all expectations.
The Peninsula Beijing is nestled in the heart of Wangfujing, the city’s most famous shopping and commercial district, just a five-minute walk from the main shopping street and key city landmarks. This enviable location places you right in the middle of Beijing’s most vibrant offerings; with the majestic Forbidden City less than a kilometer away. I could easily stroll to its gates and admire its imperial grandeur, then return to the hotel for a restful evening.
One of the hotel’s greatest perks is that you do not even need to leave the building to enjoy high-end shopping. The Peninsula Arcade, located on the second floor, ground floor, and basement 1, houses prestigious luxury boutiques such as Louis Vuitton, Chanel, and more. I found myself leisurely browsing these elegant shops just steps from my suite, an absolute treat for any fashion enthusiast.
Outside, just a short walk away, major shopping malls await. The Beijing APM (Sun Dong An Plaza) lies at the edge of Jin Yu Hutong and is one of the city’s largest retail centers. The expansive Oriental Plaza is another nearby option, featuring dozens of international brands. With such variety at my doorstep, the hotel served as the perfect base for my shopping adventures. It is rare to find a property that combines the serenity of a five-star stay with such effortless access to world-class retail.
I chose the Premier King Suite for my stay, and it felt more like a high-end apartment than a typical hotel room. Spacious, thoughtfully designed, and flooded with natural light, the suite offered an elegant balance of comfort and sophistication. I later learned that the hotel underwent a comprehensive renovation, converting all its rooms into suites—a bold move that certainly paid off.
My suite provided a serene escape above the city, equipped with smart controls, plush furnishings, and an indulgent marble bathroom that made every moment feel indulgent. The Peninsula Beijing offers a variety of refined dining experiences, and I was fortunate to try several of them during my stay; each leaving a lasting impression.
Every morning began at The Lobby, located in the hotel’s grand atrium. This elegant space reflects the timeless heritage of the Peninsula brand and is known for its generous breakfast selection and signature afternoon tea accompanied by live music.
I savored a mix of Asian and Western dishes during breakfast, but one of my favorite moments was returning in the afternoon for the classic British tea service. Silver trays arrived with delicate finger sandwiches, freshly baked scones, and rich clotted cream; all set to the soothing sound of live piano music. It felt like a whimsical retreat from the city’s bustle.
For a more traditional Chinese culinary experience, I dined at Huang Ting, the hotel’s signature Cantonese restaurant. This venue is a work of art in itself. Inspired by noble homes of old Beijing, it features antique bricks, warm lighting, and intricate blue silk embroidery. The menu celebrated Cantonese cuisine at its finest, from delicate dim sum to perfectly roasted Peking duck. Every dish was beautifully presented, and each bite felt like a flavorful journey into the heart of Chinese culinary heritage. Huang Ting truly combines authentic atmosphere with culinary excellence and has rightfully earned its reputation as one of the top Cantonese restaurants in the city.
No culinary journey is complete without a sunset view, and mine culminated at the breathtaking Yun Summer Lounge, the hotel’s rooftop terrace on the 15th floor. On my final night, I arrived just before dusk, sipped a refreshing cocktail, and watched the Forbidden City’s rooftops glow under the golden light. The view was mesmerizing—a panoramic scene of historic Beijing gently merging with the modern skyline. I could not resist capturing dozens of photos, each one a memory of the poetic beauty that unfolded before me. This rooftop evening was the perfect finale to my culinary and visual indulgence.
Choosing Beijing as a destination was no accident. It is a city where imperial history and contemporary culture coexist in stunning harmony. Staying at The Peninsula made exploring the city’s top landmarks both effortless and enjoyable.
My first stop was the nearby Forbidden City, and thanks to the hotel’s location, I arrived early enough to explore before the crowds. Wandering through its grand courtyards and intricate halls felt like stepping into a different era; a vivid encounter with China’s dynastic past.
I also set aside a full day for a private excursion to the Great Wall of China, organized with the help of the hotel’s concierge. I chose the Mutianyu section, known for its lush scenery and relatively peaceful atmosphere. Climbing its stone steps and gazing out across the endless mountain ridges was both humbling and unforgettable.
After long days of sightseeing, I always looked forward to returning to the hotel’s luxurious embrace. On my final evening, I took one last stroll through bustling Wangfujing Street. As neon signs lit up and the city came alive, I soaked in the dynamic energy that makes Beijing so captivating.
Looking back, Beijing exceeded my expectations with its beauty, culture, and diversity of experiences. My stay at The Peninsula Beijing elevated the entire journey, adding an extra layer of comfort, luxury, and sophistication. The hotel’s central location, attentive service, and refined facilities make it an unmatched choice for travelers seeking both relaxation and adventure.
Noura Khan, a travel influencer and content creator, is a Kuwaiti national, holds a degree in law from Kuwait University and has worked as a journalist prior to taking up a position in the government. In 2018 she started blogging on travel and visited more than 57 countries since. She has more than 105k followers on her blog post @nourajtraveller is well appreciated for content and travel information. Noura writes exclusively for The Times Kuwait on her travel visits.
