Hotel Review: The Upper House in Hong Kong

LOCATION

Perched in a skyscraper in Admiralty, The Upper House, which opened in 2009 by hotel group Swire Hotels, soars above the glitzy shopping complex Pacific Place. It's super close to Wan Chai and Central, too.

VIBE

Understated opulence. Stylish yet incredibly soul-soothing. Zen-luxe. The hippest home-away-from-home on the planet. I truly don't know a better hotel.

Image 1: A corner, close-up shot of the bathtub's faucet, with windows and a view in the background. Image 2: A view of the hotel's hallway, and lit-up elevator entrances.

Image 1: A view of the hotel's interior, with wall decorations, wooden ceiling panes, and windows. Image 2: A hallway lined with life-size candles leading to the hotel bar / lounge.

ROOMS

Spread out across floors 43-48, the 117 sky-high stunners offer pretty-as-a-postcard vistas of the glittering Victoria Harbor, and the verdant Victoria Peak. The sprawling, residence-like studios, suites, and penthouses are outfitted in muted tones, bamboo paneling, and nature-inspired artwork. They also feature massive bathrooms and complimentary "Maxi bars." From the cloud-like beds to the freestanding limestone bathtub, there's no shortage of jaw-dropping (and very Instagrammable) moments.

FOOD + DRINK

It's going to be difficult to even think about leaving your lofty accommodations, but you must check out Salisterra. Located on the hotel's highest floor, 49, the glamorous Mediterranean restaurant is a magnet for local tastemakers, in-the-know visitors, and the occasional designer-clad celebrity. Whether you're stopping by the all-day hotspot for afternoon tea, dinner, or late-night cocktails, expect to have a fabulous time. Plus, the menu is just as fantastic as the eternally buzzy restaurant's views of the electrifying city.

Image 1: Alex raising his cocktail, at a table of the hotel's bar with a view of Hong Kong in the background. Image 2: Perfectly designed desserts placed on a table, in front of windows with a view of Hong Kong lit up at night.

A few things worth mentioning...

If you have a penchant for VIP treatment, you'll love The Upper House. The always-smiling staff are beyond friendly and helpful.

If you're into art, you'll never want to leave. 400-plus pieces of original artwork are displayed throughout the property. Be sure to check out Japanese artist Hirotoshi Sawada’s multi-story stainless steel wall sculpture, “Rise,” at the Guggenheim-like atrium on floor 38.

The Upper House has a small, well-equipped gym, but no swimming pool or spa. Consider booking an in-room treatment, which ranges from aromatherapy massages to detoxifying organic facials, and join in on a yoga class or a guided meditation in the Sky Lounge.

Finally, check out the calendar for Up Close, The Upper House's signature event series of intimate talks and one of the hottest tickets in town. Past participants have included fashion designer Christian Louboutin, conservationist Dr. Jane Goodall, photographer Catherine Opie, tattoo artist Dr. Woo, and more.

This trip report is part of our ongoing series on travel to Hong Kong. In need of further inspiration? Check out Ann Tan’s guide, Hong Kong Must Eat and Do.