In Shanghai, I found a collection of Oriental poetics.

The morning light slants through the leaves of the century-old plane trees of the former French Concession, falling on a tranquil corner of Hongqiao Road. Hidden within this postcard-perfect scene is a hotel that offers a delightful surprise – the Shanghai Gubei Joya Hotel. More than a temporary resting place, it feels like a repository of Eastern poetics, gently enveloping every traveler. Located in the Gubei International Community, it sits at the heart of Shanghai's elegant rhythm. A stroll eastward reveals old villas nestled among plane trees whispering tales of last century's splendor; a short walk westward, the Hongqiao Transportation Hub gently guides you onto the tracks to destinations around the world. The moment you step inside, you know the designer's vision is at work. The lobby doesn't overwhelm with grandeur, but rather with exquisite details – layers of curved glazed tiles radiate a blue glow; dry landscape stone patterns extend across the floor, guiding guests towards a serene depth. The rooms are simple and elegant, with touches of indigo against a backdrop of natural wood and linen, like eyes in a poem. There's a dedicated tea table, perfect for relaxing by the window during the day, and the welcoming ceremony is thoughtfully executed. The restaurant features natural wood tones and fresh greenery, complemented by rattan chairs, creating a truly tranquil corner in the city. What I particularly appreciated was the breakfast! It was a truly immersive experience, a feast for the senses, with a wide selection of semi-buffet options and commendable ingredient quality, providing a perfect morning ritual. In the afternoon, a Chinese afternoon tea, with pastries and tea, was pure bliss. It turns out that a hotel doesn't have to be just a comma between destinations. The Joya Hotel, with its understated elegance, subtly interprets the "art of travel," which explains why I often see so many international travelers on the elevators. In the fabric of this cosmopolitan city, here you can find the contemporary breath of Eastern aesthetics.