Escape to Dishui Lake’s Urban Eden. My full review of InterContinental Shanghai Harbour City — rooms, dining, wellness, Club benefits, and travel tips
When I planned my stay at InterContinental Shanghai Harbour City last week, I already knew it wouldn’t be the typical Shanghai hotel experience. Set on Dishui Lake’s South Island, the hotel literally occupies the entire 75,000 sqm island — an “Urban Eden” far removed from city noise. Technically, it’s still Shanghai, but the shift in atmosphere when you arrive is instant.
The Scene
Dishui Lake sits in the Lin-gang Special Area, about 70 km from downtown, where the East China Sea meets Hangzhou Bay. Whether you drive or take Metro Line 16, the scenery feels almost coastal — wide skies, water views, open landscape.
Tip: From Pudong Airport, the taxi ride is about 45 minutes — ideal for a spontaneous weekend escape.
ATKINS designed the hotel to resemble a blooming flower floating on the lake, and the effect is stunning, especially in soft morning light. Landscaped gardens and walking paths complete the island-resort vibe.
Tip: Bring comfortable walking shoes — the island trails are half the experience.
Despite the peaceful setting, the island is well connected. Dishui Lake Station is just a short ride away, though I quickly found myself preferring to stay on the island instead of heading back into town. Nearby attractions include the Shanghai Astronomy Museum, Haichang Ocean Park, and the marina.
Tip: If you plan city excursions, leave buffer time. The island’s calm makes rushing feel unnatural.
The Hotel
Stepping into the lobby, I felt an immediate sense of calm. The interiors take inspiration from the meeting point of land and sea — think soft reflections, seashell textures, and a soothing, natural palette. Luxury here is subtle rather than loud.
The atrium pulls in plenty of daylight, illuminating rippling motifs and peach-blossom-inspired details that nod to NanHui culture. Staff welcomed me warmly and shared personalised recommendations using a map of the island.
Tip: Ask the concierge for insider routes and quiet corners — they know the best timings.
Even the walkways, lounges, and corridors feel intentional. Changing light patterns, water-inspired artworks, and careful landscaping make the whole hotel feel calm and cohesive.
Tip: Take a few minutes to explore the lobby — the design reveals itself slowly.
Highlights: “Lingang Moments, Ring of Time” Light & Fireworks Show
Every Saturday at 8:00 PM, Dishui Lake comes alive with the “Lingang Moments, Ring of Time” Light and Fireworks Show, transforming the area into a dazzling canvas of light centered around “The Water Drop” sculpture. The hotel’s outdoor swimming pool offers a prime viewing spot, while guests staying in Premium Lake View Balcony Rooms can enjoy the fireworks right from their private balconies.
Rooms & Suites
My lake-view suite ended up being one of the highlights of my stay. All 281 rooms and suites sit within the five “petals” of the structure, giving each room multi-directional lake or city views. Starting at 45 sqm, rooms are spacious, and many offer cruise-ship-style balconies that bring the horizon right to your doorstep.
Inside, the design balances modern comfort with warm, nautical touches. My suite’s king bed, cozy living area, and strong Wi-Fi made it both relaxing and practical.
Tip: Request a higher-floor lake-view room for the cleanest panorama.
The bathroom impressed me even more: an oversized soaking tub, a rain shower, and Byredo amenities.
Tip: A morning soak with natural light is a must.
Tech essentials — a 55-inch smart TV, smart toilet, capsule coffee machine, and JBL Bluetooth speaker — are all neatly integrated.
Suites range from 85 to 114 sqm and are perfect for longer stays or families. Extended balconies and terraces make sunrise and sunset genuinely memorable.
Tip: Even in standard rooms, ask for the biggest available balcony.
Club InterContinental
Located on the third floor of Wing C, the Club spans two floors connected by a dramatic spiral staircase. It’s quiet, elegant, and ideal if you enjoy more private spaces.
Perks include:
- Breakfast
- Afternoon tea
- Evening cocktails & canapés
- Welcome amenities
- Late check-out (subject to availability)
- Express check-in/out
- 2 items pressed per stay
- 1 hour daily meeting room usage
The outdoor terraces overlooking the lake are especially beautiful during sunset. If you enjoy hotel lounges, this upgrade is worth it.
Dining Venues
For a resort on a lake island, the dining variety is impressive — from refined Chinese dishes to lively Korean BBQ.
COMMUNE – All-Day Dining
Airy, bright, and inspired by NanHui’s market culture. Breakfast is extensive; lunch and dinner offer a mix of international and seafood-focused dishes.
Tip: Go early in the morning for quieter seating.
CAI FENG LOU – Contemporary Chinese
IHG’s signature Chinese restaurant blends Jiangnan garden design with water-inspired décor. Private dining rooms make it ideal for business or family celebrations.
Tip: Try the tea pairings — they enhance the dishes beautifully.
MOOWOO – Korean BBQ
Fun, vibrant, and perfect for groups. Known for quality cuts of meat, signature rice wine, and weekend entertainment.
Tip: Reserve ahead on weekends and ask for a built-in-grill table.
Lobby Lounge
The Lobby Lounge sits in the hotel’s light-filled atrium, blending metal and marble design with a relaxed, intimate vibe. With soft music, global wines and cocktails, and fine pastries, it’s perfect for unwinding alone or meeting with friends. Tip: Go in the late afternoon for the best light and a quieter atmosphere.
Meetings & Events
With over 9,000 sqm of event space, the hotel is equipped for weddings, conferences, product launches, and corporate retreats.
Grand Ballroom
A pillarless 1,050 sqm hall with natural light and direct garden access — great for large-stage events or installations.
Tip: Walk the space with AV details in hand.
Break-Out Rooms
Ten smaller meeting rooms with modern AV and natural light.
Tip: Touring them helps you choose the right layout.
No. 2 South Island （南岛二号）The “CEO Club”
No. 2 South Island is a 1,600-square-meter multifunctional space featuring VIP dining, meeting rooms, leisure rooms, KTV, a golf simulator, and a lakeside terrace. Designed for private events and client entertainment, it aims to become the “CEO Club” for Lin-gang’s business community.
Harmony Pavilion (云舒轩）Hub for Coffee, Design, and Relaxed Gatherings
Harmony Pavilion blends Chinese and global influences, offering diverse design styles and well-known coffee brands. It’s also a cosy spot for afternoon tea or private gatherings.
Tip: Go earlier in the afternoon to avoid the tea-time crowd and get the best seats by the windows.
Xing Yuan Ya JI (杏园雅集) – Private Dining Courtyards
Four elegant Jiangnan-style courtyards near the lake centre host intimate fine dining, Guzheng performances, poetry sessions, and VIP gatherings.
Tip: Book well in advance for special occasions. A calm, sunlit spot in the atrium. Great for afternoon tea, pastries, or quiet drinks.
Tip: The late afternoon glow is gorgeous.
Dishui Lake Convention Centre
An 8,400 sqm complex hosting up to 2,000 guests, with a 10-metre-high main hall and a huge 125 sqm LED screen.
Tip: Coordinate early with the AV team for complex setups.
Event Services
The Insider Collection team handles customised menus, décor, and planning.
Tip: A pre-event briefing smooths out final details.
Outdoor Venues
More than 1,000 sqm of lawns, gardens, waterfalls, and pavilions — ideal for sunset cocktails or wedding ceremonies.
Tip: Check backup indoor options during rainy seasons.
Wellness & Family Facilities
Youngest VIP Club
A charming ocean-and-forest-themed play area with five activity zones and the popular “Dishui Cruise Ship” structure.
Tip: Budget at least an hour — it’s a kid magnet.
Fitness Centre
Bright, modern, and facing the lake for a refreshing workout.
Tip: Morning light is energising and peaceful.
Swimming Pools
An indoor heated pool plus a beautiful outdoor infinity pool that blends visually into the lake. A dedicated kids’ pool area keeps families comfortable.
Tip: Sunrise and sunset are the magic hours. Bring swim caps — the staff can provide extras.
Staycation Photo shooting
Hotel guests are entitled to a one-time complimentary photo shooting session, non-combinable with split bookings, stay extensions, or consecutive-night stays. (Enquiry+86-021-20339999)
Water Sports
There are lots of water sports available here, especially in summer.
Wellness Activities
Choose from yoga, Pilates, Tai Chi, sauna sessions, personal training, and more. The surrounding paths and gardens make the whole island feel like a wellness retreat.
Tip: Ask for a yoga mat and head out for sunrise — it’s worth waking up early for.
My Takeaway
InterContinental Shanghai Harbour City is one of those rare places where the architecture, nature, and atmosphere all work together to slow you down in the best possible way. Whether you’re coming for relaxation, a family weekend, an event, or simply a break from the city, the island setting makes everything feel more intentional and peaceful. It’s the kind of stay that encourages you to breathe deeper, walk slower, and enjoy the views a little longer.
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InterContinental Shanghai Harbour City
No. 1, South Island, Lin Gang Special Area, China (Shanghai) Pilot Free Trade Zone, Shanghai 201306, China
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