Banyan Tree Mount Emei has opened in Sichuan Province, offering guests access to the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Mount Emei Scenic Area through wellness, cultural and nature-based experiences.
Banyan Tree Mount Emei has opened in China’s Sichuan Province, expanding the presence of Banyan Group’s flagship Banyan Tree brand in the country. Located at the foothills of Mount Emei, the new resort provides access to the Mount Emei Scenic Area, part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site recognised for its cultural and natural significance.
Known as one of China’s Four Sacred Buddhist Mountains, Mount Emei combines centuries-old traditions with rich biodiversity. The resort has been designed as a mountainside retreat that allows visitors to explore the destination through nature, cultural heritage and wellness experiences.
“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. 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,” said Philip Ding, Senior Vice President, Head of Hotel Operations, Northeast Asia and Business Development, China, Banyan Group.
Architecture inspired by Sichuan heritage
Banyan Tree Mount Emei features 130 rooms and villas across six categories, each with a private outdoor hot spring pool. The resort’s design draws inspiration from traditional courtyard homes in western Sichuan and follows the natural contours of the surrounding forested valley.
During development, the project preserved seven century-old camphor trees and retained existing trees with trunks measuring more than 10 centimetres in diameter in their original locations. Pathways through the bamboo forest were also designed around the natural terrain to maintain the character of the landscape.
The resort’s architecture incorporates traditional Chinese design principles, including the concept of “four waters returning to the hall”, where pitched roofs direct rainwater towards a central courtyard. Natural light, mountain air, water features and views across bamboo groves contribute to the connection between the built environment and nature.
The accommodation portfolio includes Mountain View Rooms, Garden Villas, Lakeside Villas, and a 320-square-metre Presidential Villa with a private garden and terrace overlooking the forest and stream.
Wellness and cultural experiences
The resort introduces Banyan Tree Spa experiences inspired by Asian healing traditions and local influences. The spa includes five private treatment rooms, a hydrothermal area and a spa café, while additional wellness facilities include a yoga studio, fitness centre, swimming pool and outdoor activities.
Guests can explore the bamboo forest trail, participate in yoga sessions, experience floating therapy and discover local cultural practices. Activities include Emei martial arts, traditional tie-dyeing and bamboo weaving, while Banyan Tree Gallery showcases crafts created by regional artisans.
The Terra Kids Club provides younger visitors with nature, art and exploration activities connected to the surrounding environment and local culture.
Culinary experiences and events
Dining venues at Banyan Tree Mount Emei highlight Sichuan culinary traditions alongside Cantonese and international influences. Jiayao Chinese Restaurant focuses on regional specialities and locally sourced ingredients, while Mingyue All-Day Dining offers Chinese and international dishes based on seasonal produce.
The resort also provides private dining experiences through Banyan Tree’s Destination Dining concept. Guests can enjoy afternoon tea aboard a traditional black-canopy boat, dine at the Mid-Lake Pavilion or enjoy meals within the bamboo forest.
For meetings and events, the resort offers more than 1,200 square metres of indoor and outdoor spaces. Facilities include the 500-square-metre Xiangzhang Ballroom, a garden terrace, the Forest Platform within the bamboo forest and the Study Room, designed for cultural gatherings, private dining, tea rituals and calligraphy activities.
Location and access
Banyan Tree Mount Emei is located approximately five minutes by car from Emeishan High-Speed Railway Station and around two minutes from the entrance to the Mount Emei Scenic Area. Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport is about two hours away by car, while Chengdu Tianfu International Airport is approximately two hours and 15 minutes away.
The resort’s opening strengthens Banyan Group’s presence in China and adds a new hospitality offering in Sichuan, a destination known for its cultural heritage, natural landscapes and growing tourism appeal.