URBN Boutique Hotel, Shanghai
More photosThe URBN Boutique Hotel in Shanghai is a pioneer in sustainable luxury, famously recognized as China’s first carbon-neutral hotel. Tucked away on a quiet street in the Jing’an District, the property is a brilliant example of adaptive reuse; it was transformed from a 1970s post office warehouse into an intimate, 26-room sanctuary.
The hotel’s design, led by A00 Architecture, celebrates eco-chic aesthetics by repurposing local materials. The interiors feature reclaimed hardwoods and classic Shanghai bricks, creating a minimalist and cozy environment. One of its most distinctive features is the water-cooled air conditioning system and the use of natural insulation, which significantly reduces the hotel’s carbon footprint while maintaining a tranquil atmosphere.
With its small, curated number of rooms, the hotel offers a private escape from the city’s intensity. Guests are just a short walk from the historic Jing’an Temple and the lush Jing’an Park, making it an incredibly convenient home base. The surrounding neighborhood is filled with a mix of modern life and traditional character, offering easy access to independent cafes, boutiques, and excellent dining.
For those looking to dive into the city’s culture, the hotel is well-connected to major landmarks. You are within reach of the former French Concession’s leafy streets, the Shanghai Museum, and the iconic Bund waterfront. Whether you are seeking a quiet place to recharge or a central starting point for your Shanghai adventures, the URBN provides a mindful, stylish, and highly localized experience.
Expert reviews
“This 26-room boutique hotel in downtown Jing’an District was once a post office and now claims to be China’s first carbon neutral hotel. The renovation, which was completed using 100 percent locally-sourced and recycled materials, has won numerous awards for its sustainability and design.”
“Within a former post office, China’s first carbon-neutral hotel not only incorporates recyclable materials and low-energy products where possible, it also calculates its complete carbon footprint – including staff commutes and delivery journeys – and offsets it by donating money to environmentally friendly projects.”
“Innovatively designed and environmentally friendly, this is Shanghai’s first carbon-neutral hotel. Built out of a former factory warehouse with environmentally sensitive technology and recycled materials, it’s a truly unique place to stay.”
Featured as Fodor’s Choice in Shanghai.
What guests liked
- Nice rooms
- Boutique style
- Friendly staff
- Excellent Wifi
- Great location
- Comfortable beds
Location
Recent guest reviews
Hotel facilities
General
- - Room service
- - Non-smoking rooms
- - Lift
- - Safety deposit box
- - Heating
- - Non-smoking throughout
- - Air conditioning
Reception services
- - 24-hour front desk
- - Express check-in/check-out
- - Tour desk
- - Luggage storage
Outdoors
- - Garden
Cleaning services
- - Laundry (additional charge)
- - Dry cleaning (additional charge)
- - Ironing service (additional charge)
- - Trouser press (additional charge)
- - Daily housekeeping
Miscellaneous
- - 24-hour security
- - Key access
- - Key card access
- - Smoke alarms
- - CCTV in common areas
- - CCTV outside property
- - Fire extinguishers
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