The Hilton luxury brand has taken over the former Le Royal Méridien on East Nanjing Road.

Making its official debut on New Year’s Day, Asia’s latest Conrad hotel is housed in the 66-story tower previously occupied by Le Royal Méridien Shanghai, which only emerged from a tip-to-toe renovation in late 2020. This high-rise landmark forms part of Shimao Festival City, a recently revamped mixed-use development on East Nanjing Road, China’s most well-known shopping street. Conrad Shanghai is located a short stroll from People’s Square metro station — a major transport interchange — and is within easy reach of attractions such as the Shanghai Museum, the Bund, and the classical Chinese gardens of Yuyuan in the Old City.

Featuring 728 rooms, including 60 suites, the property now ranks as Asia’s largest Conrad hotel. It has retained the decor and appearance of its predecessor, characterized by a color palette drawn from the five natural elements, while public and private spaces come adorned with traditional Chinese calligraphy, paintings, and ceramics. Guests can expect smart connectivity and floor-to-ceiling windows in each room, as well as bath and body products by Swedish luxury brand Byredo in eco-friendly dispensers.

The launch of Conrad Shanghai marks the brand’s first foray into the city and is the fruition of a multi-hotel deal signed between Hilton and owning company Shimao Hotel Management Group. The two have collaborated for more than a decade; under this partnership, new hotels in the pipeline include Conrad outposts in Wuhan and Zhuhai as well as a Waldorf Astoria in Shenzhen. Hilton now operates 17 other luxury hotels in Greater China and has another 10 under construction around the region.

To celebrate the hotel’s opening, Hilton Honors members who reserve a stay until April 30, 2022, will earn an additional 5,000 points per night. Bookings can be made directly through the Hilton official website and Hilton Honors App.

Doubles from US$161; hilton.com