The Ritz-Carlton Reserve has made its debut in China with the opening of a property in Jiuzhaigou, a valley on the edges of the Qinghai-Tibet plateau in China’s southwestern Sichuan province.

Rissai Valley, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve features 87 villas with views of the Minshan mountain range, forests and ancient Tibetan villages.

The property takes inspiration from traditional building forms, using locally sourced materials, works of artisanal Tibetan craftsmanship and indigenous planting in the gardens.

Four food and beverage outlets include all-day dining venue Bo Ri Village; refined Sichuan restaurant Cai Lin Xuan; La Montagne, offering a western menu alongside al fresco barbecues; and the Lobby Lounge for afternoon teas and evening cocktails. 

The Rissai Spa offers a selection of healing practices, such as singing bowl sound therapy and yoga sessions by a waterfall, as well as a large infinity pool with mountain views.  

Guests arriving at Rissai Valley are welcomed with a Zhaxi Dele Tibetan blessing ceremony, and each villa features a dedicated personal host, or ‘Nieba’.

A team of local Tibetan culturalists,  artisans, chefs, and healers deliver a range of experiences, including discovering the artistry of Tibetan folk dance and classical music to learning the meditative practice of Thangka painting, a unique Tibetan art form. 

For families, the Reserve Kids’ Club, Rissai Kids, offers a programme of activities including guiding outdoor adventures, treasure hunts, animal feeding, kite flying and stargazing evenings. 

The Jiuzhaigou Valley Scenic and Historic Interest Area covers 72,000 hectares in the northern Sichuan province and is protected as a national nature reserve. 

The ancient forest ecosystems of Jiuzhaigou National Park are home to giant pandas and other rare species of plants, animals and birds. 

Jiuzhaigou is located about 265 miles north of Chengdu, the capital of the Sichuan province, with daily connecting flights from Chengdu to Jiuzhai Huanglong Airport. Rissai Valley is approximately a 75-minute drive from the airport. 

“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 of luxury at 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.”