The Ritz-Carlton Reserve has introduced Rissai Valley, its latest resort situated in Jiuzhaigou, located in the Southwestern Sichuan province of China.
This region is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and World Biosphere Reserve, characterized by its extraordinary natural beauty, including beauteous alpine mountains, forests, lakes, and waterfalls.
The resort, named Rissai Valley, meaning “village” in Tibetan, is nestled in this enchanting location and provides guests with an exclusive and intimate luxury experience, allowing them to immerse themselves in the traditional culture of the Tibetan village life.
The Jiuzhaigou Valley Scenic and Historic Interest Area is safeguarded as a national nature reserve, protecting nearly 180 thousand acres of land in northern Sichuan Province. The region’s ancient forest ecosystems provide a habitat for some of China’s rare species, including the beloved giant pandas. Visitors can enjoy hiking, traditional Tibetan cuisine, and cultural performances while immersing themselves in the nature reserve. Chengdu is the capital of Sichuan province, and travelers can easily access Jiuzhaigou with daily connecting flights to Jiuzhai Huanglong Airport, located about 55 miles from Rissai Valley.
Rissai Valley boasts 87 villas, offering breathtaking views of the Minshan mountain range, forests, and Tibetan villages. The villas embrace the traditional building forms and locally-sourced materials as a tribute to the natural surroundings and Tibetan heritage. The property is landscaped with indigenous plantings that reflect the extraordinary landscapes, and the interiors feature jewel-toned palettes of forest greens, emeralds, and icy blues to mirror the jewel-colored lakes and waterfalls of Jiuzhaigou. Every detail in the interiors highlights the culture and heritage of the local villages, with examples of Tibetan craftsmanship throughout the property.
Guests are welcomed with a Zhaxi Dele Tibetan blessing ceremony and offered immersive experiences that provide insights into the local heritage and life. Throughout the stay, a dedicated personal host, or “Nieba,” ensures a seamless experience for each villa. The guest experience at Rissai Valley highlights the artistry of Tibetan folk dance and classical music, along with meditative Thangka painting. Dining caters to an array of occasions, from romantic al fresco dinners in a picturesque garden setting to family picnics by crystal-clear streams and elegant cocktail events against a backdrop of snow-capped mountains.
Dining at Rissai Valley offers memorable experiences complemented by the beautiful surroundings, from romantic al fresco dinners in a picturesque garden setting overlooking the forests, to memorable family picnics by crystal-clear streams or elegant cocktail events against a backdrop of snow-capped mountains. Bo Ri Village offers all-day dining in an idyllic ancient village situated opposite the Reserve. Refined Sichuan restaurant Cai Lin Xuan highlights local specialties, and at La Montagne, diners can select from a western menu and enjoy al fresco barbecues with breathtaking views. The Lobby Lounge offers a relaxing and intimate venue for afternoon teas or evening cocktails.
A true sanctuary dedicated to holistic wellness and peace of mind, the Rissai Spa invites guests to unwind through ancient healing modalities and treatments inspired by Tibetan philosophies. The spa offers a selection of healing practices and experiences based on centuries-old Tibetan wisdom for guests who seek serenity and balance, such as singing bowl sound therapy and yoga sessions by a cascading waterfall. An expansive infinity swimming pool invites guests to take a dip in its clear blue waters, framed by a breathtaking view of a Tibetan village against towering mountain peaks.
For families, Rissai Valley offers experiences that will capture the imaginations of young guests, with dedicated indoor and outdoor facilities. At the Reserve Kids Club, Rissai Kids is an engaging and immersive program that encourages children to discover the wonders of Jiuzhaigou, focusing on connections to Tibetan culture through music and dance, and exploration of the indigenous flora and fauna surrounding the Reserve. Activities include fun guided outdoor adventures, treasure hunts, animal feeding, kite flying, and stargazing evenings.
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“Rissai Valley is a truly magical place, nestled in the landscapes and surroundings of one of the most mythical natural wonders of the world,” said Marcel Damen, General Manager, Rissai Valley.
“As the first Ritz-Carlton Reserve in China, we look forward to welcoming guests to a place of marvelous beauty, and to experience the many curated experiences that connect guests with the rich local culture. A stay at Rissai Valley will inspire many memories that will last a lifetime.”
