Rissai Valley, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve, the latest resort in the prestigious Ritz-Carlton Reserve portfolio, was unveiled in Jiuzhaigou, a valley on the edges of the Qinghai-Tibet plateau in China’s Southwestern Sichuan province.
Rissai Valley, as the first Ritz-Carlton Reserve in China, encapsulates the magical beauty of Jiuzhaigou. General Manager Marcel Damen expresses excitement about welcoming guests to experience the curated activities and rich local culture that will create lasting memories. For those seeking a luxurious retreat surrounded by natural wonders and cultural treasures, a stay at Rissai Valley promises an unforgettable experience.
Rissai Valley, China’s first Ritz-Carlton Reserve, located in Jiuzhaigou, is a breathtaking resort that offers an exceptional luxury experience amidst stunning natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. Nestled in the Qinghai-Tibet plateau in China’s Southwestern Sichuan province, this resort is situated in a UNESCO World Heritage Site and World Biosphere Reserve, known for its alpine mountains, enchanting forests, lakes, and waterfalls.
The resort’s 87 intimate villas provide guests with magnificent views of the Minshan mountain range, ancient Tibetan villages, and lush forests.
The architecture by U.S.-based firm WATG combines traditional building forms and locally-sourced materials, paying homage to the natural surroundings and Tibetan heritage. The landscape, designed by John Pettigrew, features indigenous plants that reflect the extraordinary landscapes of Jiuzhaigou. The interiors, curated by the late Indonesian design legend Jaya Ibrahim, showcase palettes of forest greens, emeralds, and icy blues, mirroring the jewel-colored lakes and waterfalls of Jiuzhaigou while celebrating local Tibetan craftsmanship.
Upon arrival, guests are warmly welcomed with a Zhaxi Dele Tibetan blessing ceremony, setting the tone for an immersive and transformative experience.
A team of local Tibetan culturalists, artisans, chefs, and healers provide guests with insights into the ancient culture and traditions of Jiuzhaigou. Each villa is assigned a dedicated personal host, known as a “Nieba,” who attends to every detail and ensures a seamless stay. Guests can explore Tibetan folk dance, classical music, and the meditative Thangka painting. Leisurely hikes in the pristine surrounding forests offer moments of tranquility.
Dining at Rissai Valley is a memorable experience, with options ranging from romantic al fresco dinners in picturesque garden settings to elegant cocktail events against a backdrop of snow-capped mountains.
Bo Ri Village offers all-day dining, while Cai Lin Xuan showcases refined Sichuan cuisine. La Montagne presents a Western menu and al fresco barbecues with breathtaking views. The Lobby Lounge provides a relaxing ambiance for afternoon teas or evening cocktails.
The Rissai Spa is a sanctuary dedicated to holistic wellness and peace of mind, offering ancient healing modalities and treatments inspired by Tibetan philosophies. Guests can indulge in practices such as singing bowl sound therapy and yoga sessions by a cascading waterfall. An infinity swimming pool invites relaxation with its clear blue waters and panoramic views of a Tibetan village and towering peaks.
Families are well catered to at Rissai Valley, with dedicated indoor and outdoor facilities. The Reserve Kids Club offers the Rissai Kids program, engaging children in discovering the wonders of Jiuzhaigou through music, dance, and exploration of the indigenous flora and fauna. Outdoor adventures, treasure hunts, animal feeding, kite flying, and stargazing evenings ensure that young guests have a memorable stay.