JJinshuiWe stayed in Meishan for a week for a sporting event. The hotel has clearly seen better days—especially compared to many newer properties in the area (aging lifts, worn carpets, etc.). We chose it mainly for three reasons: breakfast, gym/pool, and laundry facilities.
1. Breakfast
The daily buffet was solid and met expectations. It featured a typical Chinese spread: hot stir-fried dishes, vegetables, meats, buns, dumplings, fried rice/noodles, porridge, plus a live station for dan dan noodles, eggs, and simple meats like sausage or ham. There was also a rotating Chinese dessert (e.g., red date with longan, green bean soup), along with some Western options like salad greens, yogurt, bread, cake, and fresh fruit.
Since we stayed a full week, we appreciated the small variations. That said, we were surprised by the limited fruit selection—mainly oranges and watermelon—especially given the abundance of fresh fruit available locally. Breakfast vouchers are issued daily and must be presented before dining.
2. Gym & Pool
This was the biggest disappointment. Both the gym and pool were completely closed, and the entire floor was gutted with no visible renovation activity. It looks like these facilities have been—and will be—out of service for quite some time. This was a major letdown, as it was one of the main reasons we chose this hotel.
3. Laundry
There is only one washer and one dryer for the entire building. We were concerned about availability, but only had to wait once. The 15-minute wash cycle helps with turnover. However, the dryer takes a long time and unfortunately shrunk all my cotton clothing. I’d recommend partially drying cotton items and then air-drying them in your room.
Package Perks
We booked through Trip.com, which included a small daily package: a plate with two oranges and some snacks, complimentary coffee or tea in the lobby, and a free transfer to the high-speed rail station (must be booked at the front desk one day in advance). There were also canned sodas included, which we didn’t use.
Room & Noise
We were initially assigned a room facing the plaza, which was very noisy. After requesting a change, we were first told the hotel was sold out—but after some persistence, a park-facing room was “found.” This room was significantly better: quiet, bright, and pleasant, with birdsong in the morning.
We were told these were actually an upgrade, and that road-facing rooms are even worse due to constant traffic noise.
4. Smart Room Features (“Xiao Du”)
We did enjoy the smart room system—“Xiao Du,” which works similarly to Alexa. It can control the curtains, TV, room temperature, and lighting, which is a nice modern touch. However, it was also a bit frustrating at times—for example, it would automatically turn off the lights in the bathroom sink area. The lighting there is already quite dim and not ideal for doing makeup.
It would be helpful if the hotel could improve lighting around the mirror (brighter bulbs would make a big difference), or even better, install a mirror by the writing desk near the window where there is natural light.
Smoking
Smoking is allowed in the hotel, and we did notice it in the lobby, elevators, and corridors. Thankfully, our room itself was fine. Housekeeping turns off the AC and opens windows when cleaning, which seems to help ventilate lingering smoke.
Location & Surroundings
The hotel is in a convenient area. A nearby park is lovely, with traditional structures and inscriptions related to the Su family. Within a short walk is a lively commercial plaza with restaurants, bubble tea shops, salons (I tried a newly opened nail salon), and more. Getting around via Didi is easy.
Overall
For the price, the hotel offers decent value. However, the closed fitness facilities were a major downside. If we return, we’d likely try a newer hotel—but this one works if you prioritize cost and location over amenities.
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