Luxurious Retreat in Jiuzhaigou Valley: Rissai Valley, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve

Rissai Valley, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve on the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau in Southwest China, provides visitors with unique experiences and an intimate connection to the scenery, people, and customs of the Jiuzhaigou Valley, which is classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The newest resort in the illustrious Ritz-Carlton Reserve portfolio, Rissai Valley, was inaugurated today in Jiuzhaigou, a valley on the southwestern edge of the Qinghai-Tibet plateau in China’s Sichuan province. The area, which has stunning alpine mountains towering above a fairyland of forests, lakes, and waterfalls, is an area of great natural beauty and has been listed by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site and World Biosphere Reserve. In this mesmerising environment, the intimate luxury hideaway known as Rissai Valley—whose name is a translation of the Tibetan word for “village”—offers visitors unique insights and profound connections with the natural surroundings and culture of conventional Tibetan village life.

“We are thrilled to debut Rissai Valley, China’s first Ritz-Carlton Reserve in Jiuzhaigou, one of the most stunningly beautiful and culturally rich areas of the world,” said Tina Edmundson, President, Luxury, Marriott International. “Rissai Valley is the sixth property in a rare portfolio of exclusive estates worldwide, offering an intimate and transformative experience rooted in heartfelt care and human connection. I cannot wait for guests to enjoy the ancient indigenous culture and traditions of Jiuzhaigou through a unique Ritz-Carlton Reserve lens.”

Nearly 180 000 acres of the Jiuzhaigou Valley Scenic and Historic Interest Area in northern Sichuan Province are designated as a national nature reserve. Giant pandas, a beloved mammal in China, as well as numerous unique flora, animals, and bird species, call the old forest ecosystems of Jiuzhaigou National Park home. Hiking in the national park, trying authentic Tibetan food, and taking in vibrant cultural performances are all options for visitors to the location. There are daily connecting flights from Chengdu, the provincial capital of Sichuan, to Jiuzhai Huanglong Airport, which is situated about 265 miles to the north of Chengdu. From the airport, it takes around 75 minutes to drive the approximate 55 miles to Rissai Valley.

The cosy 87 villas in Rissai Valley provide stunning views of the forested Minshan mountain range, woods, and traditional Tibetan settlements. The Tibetan legacy and the surrounding environment were honoured by the American architectural company WATG through the utilisation of traditional building forms and regionally produced materials. John Pettigrew oversaw the landscaping and designed the exquisite gardens with native plants to replicate the spectacular landscapes. The exquisite interiors were created by the late Indonesian interior design legend Jaya Ibrahim, who selected palettes of forest greens, emeralds, and icy blues to reflect the jewel-toned lakes and waterfalls of Jiuzhaigou. The property also honours the culture and heritage of the nearby villages by showcasing examples of artisanal Tibetan craftsmanship.

Every new day offers opportunity to immerse oneself in events that offer insights into the local traditions and way of life. Visitors to Rissai Valley are cordially welcomed with a Zhaxi Dele Tibetan blessing ceremony. Visitors are welcomed into an old culture where they can obtain transforming insights and make real connections with the Jiuzhaigou residents and their families thanks to a devoted staff of local Tibetan cultural specialists, artists, cooks, and healers. Every villa has a personal host, known as a “Nieba” in the local dialect, who attends to every detail for visitors and makes their stay as comfortable as possible. Visitors may experience the skill of Tibetan traditional dance and classical music in this exquisite location, as well as find peace and harmony via the meditative practise of Thangka painting, a distinctive Tibetan art form. Visitors can also go for a leisurely walk through the magnificent woodlands that surround the property in the early morning.

The picturesque surroundings enhance the memorable dining experiences at Rissai Valley, which range from memorable family picnics by crystal-clear streams to elegant cocktail events against a backdrop of snow-capped mountains. Romantic al fresco dinners in a picturesque garden setting overlooking the forests are just a few of the memorable dining experiences available. Bo Ri Village, a charming old village located across from the Reserve, provides all-day dining. Diners can choose from a western menu at La Montagne and partake in al fresco barbecues while taking in the spectacular views at the upscale Sichuan restaurant Cai Lin Xuan, which showcases regional specialties. If you’re looking for a tranquil and private setting for afternoon tea or late cocktails, try the Lobby Lounge.

The Rissai Spa, a true retreat devoted to holistic wellness and mental tranquilly, encourages visitors to relax through age-old healing practises and therapies influenced by Tibetan philosophy. For visitors looking for peace and harmony, the spa offers a variety of healing techniques and experiences based on age-old Tibetan wisdom, such as yoga sessions next to a cascading waterfall and singing bowl sound treatment. A large infinity pool encourages visitors to cool off in its crystal-clear waters while offering a spectacular vista of a Tibetan town set against high Himalayan peaks.

With special indoor and outdoor amenities for families, Rissai Valley provides experiences that will pique the interest of young visitors. The Rissai Kids programme at the Reserve Kids Club encourages kids to explore Jiuzhaigou’s beauties by connecting them to Tibetan culture through music and dance and by learning about the native plants and animals that inhabit the area. Activities include kite flying, stargazing nights, animal feeding, exciting guided outdoor experiences, and treasure hunts.

“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.”