Surrounded by ancient camphor trees in the Minhang district, Amanyangyun is a peaceful sanctuary on the outskirts of Shanghai. Amanyangyun’s story began 700 kilometres away in rural Fuzhou, a cultural heartland known for its historic villages. When plans for a dam were approved there in 2002, a Shanghai philanthropist and Fuzhou native decided to save 50 ancient Ming and Qing dynasty villas and thousands of trees to Shanghai. The monumental plan was realised with the restoration of the 2,000-year-old forest and reassembling of the centuries-old villas. Thirteen antique villas form the core of the property, with a further 24 Courtyard Suites added. Each of the Ming Courtyard Suites has two courtyards. Rooms are spacious, minimalist and light-filled, with pale wood lattice screens, generous bathrooms, huge rain showers and bathtubs. The Aman spa positions the hotel as a wellness destination with indoor and outdoor swimming pools, private bathhouses, a Hamman and Russian banya, a well-equipped gym, and a yoga and Pilates studio. Treatments include Oriental medicine consultations, acupuncture and nutritional guidance.

Amanyangyun’s Nanshufang is a traditional Chinese arts and culture centre in which lessons in calligraphy, incense making and tea ceremonies take place. Amanyangyun’s elegant Chinese restaurant pays homage to the original home of the camphor trees and antique villas. Lazhu serves a menu combining Jiangxi signature dishes with local Shanghainese and Cantonese favourites. A lakeside Italian restaurant with a warm atmosphere, Arva draws inspiration from Italy’s farm-to-table tradition. The Bar is an ideal place to sit back and enjoy a drink or afternoon tea between activities.