I just came from the Courtyard by Marriot in Hongqiao and the rooms and service were impeccable there. However in Renaissance Yu Garden, whilst service is still great (love the Navigation guys and front desk who were informative and helpful), the rooms were definitely old and dated. Lots of things didn't work in our room such as the door stoppers, the cupboard doesn't close fully, the cutleries & cups storage were dusty, there was mold at the corner of the shower area (shudder) and the room smells a little. The blinds that close off the bathroom area to the room was cranky and noisy (and old).

It's such a pity as the location was amazing - literally 5 minutes walk to the Yu Gardens (Yuyuan), and I rented a bike to ride straight to Nanjing Road. Station to Line 10 Exit 3 is literally right across the road as well. I'd urge the management to look into refurbishing the rooms (the turquoise-coloured carpets are a little moldy too) that can perhaps elevate the experience much more.

Check-in process was a little messy and the hotel is probably at full capacity and the lobby was not quite equipped for that, hence we queued till the elevators. Though kudos to the staff as they moved us along quite quickly.

Overall, it's great for a stay for 1-2 nights but it doesn't make me want to stay the entire week.

Twice a year, I am travelling to Shanghai and spend 8-10 nights at the Yu Garden Renaissance since 8 years. Due to the near Yu Garden and Bund it s good to have a walk after work or during the week end. For more activities, just under the roof (fantastic view from there) the pool open until 22:00 is great (or fitness room - but not for me ) .
The rooms between 17th and 20th are great with direct access to Lounge (really to recommand ! ) The all Team there is very friendly, the view and the food are great. Breakfast, dinner, a glass red wine, all inclusiv, nice ! Business class !!
I will be back in October, see you soon there 😉

The hotel is conveniently located next to Yu Garden and line 10 (and line 4) subway station. That made our visit to the beautiful night Yu Garden very easy. We were also able to walk to Xin Tian Di and The Bund. The room is spacious and pleasantly decorated. The view of the river and the skyscrapers from the rooftop deck and our room was breathtaking. The breakfast has many varieties. The staff made every effort to accommodate our request. It was a fantastic hotel experience. I will recommend this hotel to anyone visiting Shanghai.