Banyan Group has expanded its flagship Banyan Tree brand in China with the opening of Banyan Tree Mount Emei in China's Sichuan Province. Nestled in the foothills of Mount Emei (also known as Emeishan), the resort serves as a gateway to the Mount Emei Scenic Area, part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site and known for its rich biodiversity.
"Mount Emei holds a distinctive place in China's cultural and natural heritage. As one of China's Four Sacred Buddhist Mountains, it brings together centuries of tradition and exceptional ecological value," said Philip Ding, Senior Vice President, Head of Hotel Operations, Northeast Asia and Business Development, China, Banyan Group. "We look forward to welcoming guests to our mountainside sanctuary as they explore this important destination at an unhurried pace, moving beyond traditional sightseeing to engage more deeply with its landscape, living traditions and natural rhythms."
Inspired by the traditional courtyard homes of western Sichuan, the resort reinterprets the region's architecture in a contemporary form. Its design, landscaping and guest experiences draw on the surrounding environment and local culture.
The guest arrival, framed by mature camphor trees, leads to an open-air courtyard inspired by the traditional Chinese architectural principle of "four waters returning to the hall" (si shui gui tang), in which pitched roofs channel rainwater into a central courtyard.
The resort comprises 130 rooms and villas across six categories, each featuring a private outdoor hot spring pool. Mountain View Rooms frame the changing scenery across the seasons, Garden Villas open onto private gardens, and one- and two-bedroom Lakeside Villas feature landscaped courtyards beside the water. The 320-square-meter (3445 square feet) Presidential Villa is complemented by a private garden of similar size and a terrace overlooking the forest and stream.
The Banyan Tree Spa draws on Asian healing traditions and local inspiration, with five private treatment rooms designed for couples. A Rainforest-inspired hydrothermal experience and spa café complement the treatments.
Beyond the spa, guests can walk the bamboo forest trail, practise yoga in the morning light or relax with a weightless floating therapy experience. The temperature-controlled swimming pool offers 180-degree views of the bamboo groves and lake, while a dedicated yoga studio and fitness center provide space for daily movement.
Local culture also informs the guest experience. Banyan Tree Gallery presents a curated selection of local crafts and cultural creations. Emei martial arts, traditional tie-dyeing and bamboo weaving invite guests to engage with the region's living heritage. For younger guests, the Terra Kids Club brings together nature, exploration and art through discovery, creativity and play.
Dining at Banyan Tree Mount Emei reflects the culinary traditions of Sichuan, complemented by Cantonese and international influences. Jiayao Chinese Restaurant highlights locally sourced ingredients and regional specialities alongside Cantonese favourites and contemporary interpretations. Mingyue All-Day Dining brings together Chinese and international flavours, with an emphasis on seasonal ingredients and health-conscious choices. At the Lobby Lounge, afternoon tea gives way to evening drinks.
For a more intimate experience, Banyan Tree's signature Destination Dining offers private settings by the tranquil lake and within the bamboo grove. Guests can enjoy afternoon tea aboard a traditional black-canopy boat, dine in the Mid-Lake Pavilion or among the bamboo forest, or gather in the Study Room for tea and conversation.
More than 1,200 square meters of flexible indoor and outdoor event space provides a natural setting for meetings, celebrations and private gatherings. The pillarless Xiangzhang Ballroom is complemented by a foyer and a garden terrace.
The Forest Platform within the bamboo forest is bordered by bamboo on one side and pine trees on the other. Set apart from the resort's main buildings, the Study Room takes its name from Huizong Hall, the original name of nearby Baoguo Temple. Designed by contemporary Chinese architect Zhuang Ziyu, the building houses six multifunctional rooms for cultural gatherings, private dining, tea rituals and calligraphy.
Getting There
Banyan Tree Mount Emei is a five-minute drive from Emeishan High-Speed Railway Station and around two minutes from the entrance to the Mount Emei Scenic Area. Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport is approximately two hours away by car, while Chengdu Tianfu International Airport is around two hours and 15 minutes away. Leshan Airport, which is expected to begin operations later in 2026, will be approximately 40 minutes from the resort by car.
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