Banyan Group (“Banyan Tree Holdings Limited” or the “Group” – SGX: B58), an independent global hospitality company, celebrates its 20th Anniversary in China with an immersive journey through Yunnan Province’s Ringha in Shangri-la and Lijiang — the Group’s first destinations in the country. The anniversary comes as the Group prepares for the Grand Opening of its 100th global property in November.
Over the past two decades, Banyan Group has grown alongside China’s tourism landscape, witnessing its transformation while staying rooted in our commitment to people, culture, and community,. From our beginnings in Shangri-La to 36 operating hotels and resorts across the country today, our growth reflects both ecosystem expansion and a deep cultural synergy. Claire Chiang, Co-founder and Senior Vice-President of Banyan Group
20 Years in China: A Journey of Gratitude and Growth
Banyan Group’s journey began in 2005 with the restoration of traditional Tibetan farmhouses in Shangri-La to create Banyan Tree Ringha, followed by Banyan Tree Lijiang a year later. Two decades on, China has become the Group’s largest market, with 36 hotels and resorts across five brands — Banyan Tree, Angsana, Garrya, Dhawa and Homm — including 17 Banyan Tree properties.
Recent milestones include the openings of Angsana Zhoushan and Homm Wenzhou Nanxijiang, with upcoming 2025 debuts for Banyan Tree Zhuhai Phoenix Bay and Dhawa Beihai Weizhou Island. New signings in Guangzhou, Xiamen, and Wenling further strengthen the Group’s presence in both tier-one cities and emerging destinations.
Stewardship Anchored in Purpose
For 20 years in China, Banyan Group has remained guided by its founding ethos — Embracing the Environment, Empowering People. Through the Banyan Environmental and Community Fund, launched with the China Environmental Protection Foundation, the Group has supported initiatives ranging from the Clownfish Protection Program and Coral Reef Restoration in the South China Sea to the Campus Water Safety Program in Yangshuo and Leishan schools.
To commemorate its 20th anniversary in China, a new clean water project in Lijiang was recently implemented this month, reinforcing Banyan Group’s commitment to meaningful community impact and long-term stewardship.
Sanctuaries Immersed in Culture and Nature
Guided by respect for both nature and minority culture, Banyan Tree’s first two resorts in China invites guests across the world to step into presence through gentle rituals inspired by the wisdom of nature, local traditions and ancestral rhythms:
- Banyan Tree Ringha, deep in the secluded valley of Shangri-La, reimagines traditional Tibetan farmhouses as 32 exclusive villas. Brightly painted beams, intricate carvings, and earthen fireplaces capture the spirit of Tibetan culture, offering a retreat of warmth and intimacy. Guests may join home visits to prepare butter tea and Zanba, or embark on guided treks along the Shu Du Gang River to learn about yak herding, Tibetan scriptures and butter lamp practices.
- Banyan Tree Lijiang, nestled at the foot of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain and beside the UNESCO-listed towns of Shuhe and Baisha, draws inspiration from Naxi architecture. The resort features 123 Villas and Suites, three distinctive restaurants, and the signature Banyan Tree Spa and Gallery. Guests may immerse in blessing ceremonies, Dongba calligraphy workshops, Tile Cat making, or Naxi bonfire dancing. Beyond the resort, they may explore Baisha murals and visit the Baisha Naxi Embroidery Institute. For nature seekers, the famed Tiger Leaping Gorge offers a dramatic 15-kilometre trek between Jade Dragon and Haba Snow Mountains.
Through the Group’s Stay for Good programme, guests may also engage in experiences that honour heritage and sustain local livelihoods — from embroidery collaborations supporting Naxi women to cultural immersion activities that celebrate Yunnan’s diverse communities.
For more information, please visit http://www.banyantree.com/china/ringha for Banyan Tree Ringha and www.banyantree.com/china/lijiang for Banyan Tree Lijiang.
ABOUT BANYAN GROUP
Banyan Group (“Banyan Tree Holdings Limited” or the “Group” – SGX: B58) is an independent, global hospitality company with purpose. The Group prides itself on its pioneering spirit, design-led experiences and commitment to responsible stewardship. Its extensive portfolio spans 91 hotels and resorts, over 140 spas and galleries, and 20 plus branded residences in over 20 countries. Comprising 12 global brands, including the flagship brand Banyan Tree, each distinct yet united under the experiential membership programme withBanyan. The founding ethos of “Embracing the Environment, Empowering People” is embodied through the Banyan Global Foundation and Banyan Academy. Banyan Group is committed to remaining the leading advocate of sustainable travel, with a focus on regenerative tourism and innovative programmes that elevate the guest experience.
For more information about Banyan Group, visit www.groupbanyan.com.
Charmaine Lin
Group Communications Director
Banyan Group
