Fragrant Hill Empark Hotel

The hotel should be excellent in design and location decades ago. But it is now very dated and the general maintenance is so so. Mostly, it is occupied by conference participants and old people with families who like hiking nearby. It is far from the airport and thr city centre. The service is limited and little English is spoken. A day trip tot he area may be preferred to staying at the hotel.

Stayed for a conference; Hotel amenities: Conference facilities were good, sound, PC, catering were all good. WiFi was good and the lift was quick. Room: Large rooms, good water pressure, TV, nice bed and room was quiet. Smelt like damp and cigarettes though, fridge but no mini-bar, VERY long walk to room from lobby. Balcony door had no lock. Food: Wide selection of food catering for many tastes, opening hours were okay. Fruit juices were very sugary, didn't attempt to work the coffee machine. Sweet options were limited and very dry. Staff: Friendly but a distinct lack of English speakers for an international hotel.

We stayed here for a conference and found it in a lovely mountain region away from the city craziness of Beijing. The check-in was slow and English speaking staff is hard to find but they were trying hard to offer a comfortable stay. The best part, for me, was the leisure facilities. A very good clean lane pool with decent changing facilities. Odd opening times but it is new and smart. The buffet breakfast offered Western and Chinese food with a lively atmosphere. The hotel looks a little tired and dated with old carpet on the corridors. The main foyer has an open air feel and the gardens were well structured. WiFi was tricky if you didnt have a local mobile phone number.