Nestled in the picturesque landscape of Yangshuo, southwest China, the Yangshuo Sugar House stands as a testament to the harmonious blend of history and modern luxury. This boutique hotel is set to spearhead a new Chinese heritage hospitality brand, Aurua, which aims to restore and celebrate old buildings, infusing them with new life and purpose.
The vision behind Aurua
Aurua is more than just a hospitality brand; it is a movement to preserve and honour China’s rich architectural heritage. The brand is built around four core principles: nature, terroir, presence, and aura. These principles guide the restoration and operation of each property, ensuring that the essence of the original structures is maintained while providing guests with a luxurious and immersive experience.
Yangshuo Sugar House: A model of heritage restoration
The Yangshuo Sugar House, originally an abandoned sugar mill, was acquired in 2006 by Hong Kong investor Danny T.T. Chan and his mainland Chinese partner Yang Xiaodong. Their vision was to restore the mill to its former architectural glory and transform it into a heritage resort. The restoration process, which took 11 years, was meticulous and respectful of the building’s origins. Political slogans from the past were retained, and the original structures were preserved and repurposed.
A unique guest experience
Guests at the Yangshuo Sugar House are greeted by the enchanting smell of osmanthus flowers and the serene beauty of the surrounding mountains. The hotel offers 117 rooms, suites, and villas, many housed in new, purpose-built structures that complement the old factory buildings. The property features a variety of amenities, including a restaurant, a private dining room, a library, and a bar named the 1969 Bar, which was once the cane pressing workshop.
An initiative to be celebrated
The Aurua Project provides the following benefits.
Cultural preservation: Aurua’s focus on restoring and celebrating old buildings helps preserve China’s architectural heritage. This not only maintains the historical significance of these structures but also educates guests about the rich cultural history of the region.
Sustainable tourism: By repurposing existing structures, Aurua promotes sustainable tourism. The restoration process minimizes the environmental impact compared to new constructions, aligning with global sustainability goals.
Economic growth: The development of heritage hotels like the Yangshuo Sugar House can boost local economies by attracting tourists and creating jobs. This influx of visitors can also support local businesses and artisans.
Enhanced guest experience: Aurua offers a unique and immersive experience that combines luxury with history. Guests can enjoy modern amenities while being surrounded by the charm and character of historical buildings.
Community engagement: The project encourages community involvement by employing local craftsmen and sourcing materials locally. This not only supports the local economy but also ensures that the restoration process is authentic and respectful of the region’s heritage.
The Yangshuo Sugar House is more than just a hotel; it is a symbol of a new era in Chinese hospitality. As the flagship property of the Aurua brand, it sets a high standard for heritage restoration and luxury hospitality. By preserving the past and embracing the future, Aurua offers guests an unparalleled experience that celebrates the rich cultural heritage of China.
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