The Kengo Kuma-designed Opposite House is as sleek and sparkling as a new iPod, with the cool credentials to match. In-room check-in means arrivals are hassle-free, and soothing minimalist design, hip restaurants and spa treatments galore make this the ultimate spoil-yourself bolthole for Beijing.

The facilities

The Opposite House is a bit of a star on the Beijing restaurant scene, with multi-award winning Bei and Sureno dishing up north Asian and Mediterranean treats respectively. Families will love the more casual Village Cafe, which serves a contemporary international menu.

After dark, Mesh bar is all low-key cool with gauzy drapes, low leather couches and glass walls. Those looking to quicken their pulse will head to the hotel's very own nightclub; Punk, afterwards, where DJs play until the early hours.

Don't worry about overindulging (it's not hard, here!): an indoor pool, technogym and spa treatments are sure to help revive you.

The rooms

99 rooms and suites are spacious and zen-like with king-size beds, white walls and natural wood floors. Stark, cubist furnishing extends to open plan bathrooms, which have square oak soak tubs and toilets. Huge flatscreen TVs (which can be viewed from the bath) and complimentary Wi-Fi and minibars come as standard, but splash out on a Studio 70 suite for mood lighting and even more lounge space.