A transformative experience rooted in human connection is the focus of this luxury villa resort featuring unique dining and wellness concepts.
Surrounded by natural beauty
Rissai Valley, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve is now open in the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Jiuzhaigou Valley, which is found on the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau of Southwestern China’s Sichuan province.
The exciting new property promises an immersive connection with the landscape, culture and traditions of the region known for its mountains, lakes, waterfalls and forest – home to giant pandas – and traditional Tibetan village life.
“We are thrilled to debut Rissai Valley, China’s first Ritz-Carlton Reserve in Jiuzhaigou, one of the most stunningly beautiful and culturally rich areas of the world,” said Tina Edmundson, President, Luxury, Marriott International.
“Rissai Valley is the sixth property in a rare portfolio of exclusive estates worldwide, offering an intimate and transformative experience rooted in heartfelt care and human connection. I cannot wait for guests to enjoy the ancient indigenous culture and traditions of Jiuzhaigou through a unique Ritz-Carlton Reserve lens.”
Marcel Damen, General Manager, Rissai Valley, commented: “Rissai Valley is a truly magical place, nestled in the landscapes and surroundings of one of the most mythical natural wonders of the world.”
“As the first Ritz-Carlton Reserve in China, we look forward to welcoming guests to a place of marvelous beauty, and to experience the many curated experiences that connect guests with the rich local culture. A stay at Rissai Valley will inspire many memories that will last a lifetime.”
Cultural insight
The resort’s 87 villas, designed by U.S. architectural firm WATG, take in views of the Minshan mountain range and through their design pay homage to the natural surroundings as well as Tibetan heritage. The late Indonesian designer Jaya Ibrahim designed the villas’ interiors, highlighting Tibetan craftsmanship and decorating them in forest-inspired hues, and John Pettigrew led the landscaping of the gardens.
Guests are welcomed with a Zhaxi Dele Tibetan blessing ceremony and a number of local experiences are offered throughout their stay owing to the resort’s team of local Tibetan culturalists, artisans, chefs and healers. Experiences range from Tibetan folk dance to Thangka painting.
The all-day dining Bo Ri Village is a part of an ancient village opposite the Reserve. The property is also home to the refined Sichuan restaurant Cai Lin Xuan, the western La Montagne restaurant offering alfresco barbecues and the Lobby Lounge for afternoon tea or cocktails.
Rissai Spa takes inspiration for the resort’s wellness concept from Tibetan philosophies, with healing practices based on this Tibetan wisdom including singing bowl sound therapy and yoga sessions by a waterfall. The resort also features a scenic swimming pool.
Families are catered for with dedicated indoor and outdoor facilities and the Reserve Kids’ Club offers a programme of activities focusing on connections to Tibetan culture and exploration of the indigenous flora and fauna.
