Defined by the dramatic interplay of Cangshan Mountain’s peaks and the stillness of Erhai Lake, Dali unfolds as a place shaped by nature, heritage, and a long-standing spirit of artistic and cultural exchange. EDITION, part of Marriott Bonvoy’s portfolio, reimagines this storied destination with the opening of The Dali EDITION, bringing a refined, contemporary perspective to Southwest China.

Dali is the 23rd destination in the brand’s global collection and one of China’s most sought-after emerging leisure destinations for both domestic and international travelers. From Tokyo and London to New York and Riviera Maya, EDITION has built a portfolio of hotels known for their distinctive blend of design, culture, and lifestyle. The opening of The Dali EDITION also marks the 80th luxury property in Greater China for the Luxury Group by Marriott International, underscoring the continued commitment to the region and the growing demand for luxury travel experiences.

“Dali carries a remarkable sense of place, shaped over centuries by exchange, artistry, and landscape,” said George Fleck, Senior Vice President and Global Brand Leader, EDITION. “With The Dali EDITION, we saw an opportunity to honor that history while introducing a distinctly contemporary point of view – one that reflects EDITION’s continued, thoughtful growth in China and our belief in creating places that feel both grounded and of the moment.”

“The opening of The Dali EDITION marks an important milestone for EDITION in Greater China and reflects the growing demand for luxury experiences that are both culturally meaningful and globally relevant,” said Bart Buiring, Managing Director, Luxury, Greater China, Marriott International. “With its understated luxury, immersive connection to Yunnan’s culture and landscape, and distinctive approach to hospitality, The Dali EDITION introduces a compelling new destination for travelers seeking a thoughtful and contemporary expression of luxury.”

A Contemporary Approach to Design

The Dali EDITION features 151 guestrooms and suites, plus a collection of private villas with swimming pools, thoughtfully positioned throughout the landscape. Beginning at 60 square meters, guestrooms are designed as serene retreats defined by natural light and layered textures.

Drawing inspiration from the region’s traditional Bai architecture, the hotel balances local craftsmanship with a refined contemporary aesthetic. Light-filled interiors, vaulted ceilings, and expansive views of the surrounding landscape create a sense of openness and tranquility, while a collection of landscaped courtyards, open-air corridors, and garden pathways blur the boundaries between indoor and outdoor living. Connecting guestrooms, restaurants, and gathering spaces, these thoughtfully designed pathways encourage moments of exploration and discovery, revealing intimate corners for quiet reflection along the way. Natural materials, understated detailing, and modern craftsmanship come together to create a design language that feels timeless, sophisticated, and deeply connected to Dali.

At 250 square meters, the Presidential Suite offers a residential-style retreat complete with a private courtyard, indoor pool, expansive terrace, and sweeping views of the surrounding landscape.

A Lifestyle Rooted in Place

At the heart of The Dali EDITION lies a working tea plantation, seamlessly woven into the hotel’s landscape and offering guests a direct connection to one of Yunnan’s most enduring cultural traditions.

Guests are invited to wander through the tea fields, hand-pick fresh tea leaves, and continue to the Tea House, where they learn the traditional art of roasting, preparing, and tasting their own tea. The experience concludes with guests taking home the tea they have crafted themselves, creating a meaningful connection to the land, culture, and craftsmanship that define the region.

Beyond the plantation, experiences throughout the hotel are designed to reveal the traditions, natural beauty, and cultural richness of Dali and the wider Yunnan region. Seasonal mushroom foraging experiences, sunrise jogging routes through the surrounding landscape, and curated cultural encounters offer guests authentic and memorable ways to engage with the destination.

Wellness Inspired by the Landscape

Wellness at The Dali EDITION draws inspiration from the restorative rhythms of the surrounding landscape. Designed to reconnect guests with nature, movement, and mindfulness, the hotel’s wellness offerings combine contemporary treatments with local traditions and immersive experiences.

The Spa features five private treatment rooms opening onto tranquil courtyards and offers therapies inspired by natural elements and traditional wellness practices. Signature treatments include the Pine Wood Massage, Jade Hot Stone Body Ritual, and Herbal Purifying Bath. Complementing the spa are immersive Sound Bath sessions, an indoor-outdoor yoga terrace overlooking the mountains, a state-of-the-art fitness center, and a 25-meter indoor swimming pool, creating opportunities for both active and restorative experiences.

Dining, Rooted in Yunnan

Dining at The Dali EDITION is guided by seasonality, provenance, and a close connection to the surrounding landscape. Ingredients sourced from local farms, orchards, and nearby producers shape a culinary program that celebrates the authenticity and diversity of Yunnan’s rich food culture.

Market at EDITION presents an all-day dining experience centered around a farm-to-table philosophy, while KUSHO showcases wood-fired cooking techniques that highlight the purity and character of locally sourced ingredients. The Lobby Bar serves as the social heart of the hotel, transitioning effortlessly from daytime gatherings to evening cocktails. The hotel’s Chinese restaurant draws inspiration from traditional Bai architecture and craftsmanship, creating an immersive setting that celebrates local culture through both design and cuisine.

Moments of Connection and Celebration

Designed for meaningful gatherings and celebrations, The Dali EDITION offers a collection of thoughtfully crafted event spaces immersed within the surrounding landscape. From destination weddings overlooking the mountains to executive retreats and intimate social occasions, each venue has been designed to foster connection, creativity, and memorable shared experiences.

The hotel features a Grand Ballroom, outdoor lawn venues, and four flexible meeting studios that provide elegant settings for both social and corporate events.

“We are delighted to welcome guests from across China and around the world to The Dali EDITION,” said Francine Ong, General Manager, The Dali EDITION. “From our tea plantation and immersive cultural experiences to our culinary, wellness, and design offerings, every aspect of the hotel has been thoughtfully created to inspire meaningful connections with Dali while delivering the distinctive hospitality that defines EDITION.”

For more information on The Dali EDITION and reservation enquiries, please visit https://www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/dlueb-the-dali-edition/overview/.