Nanjing

Ask for an east-facing room at this welcoming hotel and you'll be treated to rousing views of Xuanwu Lake and the wall surrounding Nanjing's old city. — Fodor's

The 278-room property overlooks Xuanwu Lake. — Travel + Leisure

At the eight-acre minimalist-design retreat outside Nanjing, 90 minutes by the new high-speed train from Shanghai...Each [villa] has a private pool and a hot spring mineral bath. — Concierge

Situated in Nanjing's former legation quarters, Yihe Mansions is a collection of magnificently restored former embassies and homes of military generals. — Lonely Planet

Serene high-rise in historic Nanjing with a sublime spa and panoramic lake and mountain views. — Jetsetter

Located in the southwestern corner of the Nanjing Normal University campus about a 15-minute taxi ride northwest of Xinjiekou, this hotel is a no-frills clean and comfortable budget choice. — Frommer's

This hotel was meant to be a Marriott, but after negotiations fell through, it opened as a Chinese-owned four-star establishment instead. — Frommer's

Don't let the fact that this is a state-owned hotel turn you off. The 37-story Jinling has been a local institution since it opened in 1983 and has worked to keep its reputation. — Frommer's

Sprawling golf and spa retreat at the foot of Purple Mountain, a three-hour drive from Shanghai. — Jetsetter

There are several of these good-value budget hotels around town but this is in a prime location, being central and handy for the best bars. — Rough Guide

This big four-star fairly bristles with old-world imperial decor, while behind the red- and-yellow trim lies a range of amenities and room sizes. — Insight Guides

International luxury hotel, with state-of-the-art rooms, a fabulous spa (try the indoor mineral pool), and fawning service. — Fodor's

This place by the river has friendly staff. Rooms are old but fine, although aim for one overlooking the water as the others are windowless. Offers bike rental, DVD burning and laundry. — Lonely Planet

Every single room is superbly stylish, and the same can be said of the many on-site bars and restaurants, which simply purr with quality. — Rough Guide

Steps from the heart of the city, this well-run hotel has an offbeat charm. — Fodor's

A central location, impressive exterior and seamless service make this the best five-star option in town... High-level restaurants and bars guarantee good dining and drinking options. — DK Eyewitness

Rooms are spick and span and the whole hotel presentation is stylish and cool. Free bike use for two hours. — Lonely Planet

Nanjing's original modern five-star hotel is worth a look for its great location in the center of town, solicitous service, and—in its newly built tower—sparklingly modern rooms. — Fodor's