Unlike the yokel barons of today, the salt merchants used their money to build a city that became known for its good taste in muted, rather than ostentatious, display.

Yangzhou became a center for art and culture, and the city's famous scholars and artists such as the Eight Eccentrics are still respected today for their exceptional paintings, prose and poems.

Appetite for culture is reflected in the cuisine as well, and Yangzhou food is known for its refined flavors and artistic presentation.

Among the Shangrila-La's dining and entertainment options are Cafe Xiu, which features five interactive cooking stations serving international dishes, and the signature Shang Palace offering authentic Cantonese cuisine and traditional Huaiyang selections.

it also offers the city's newest gathering spot for meetings and special events - a 1,485-square-metre, pillar-free Grand Ballroom that can accommodate up to 840 people for a banquet or 1,350 for a reception.

Ideally located in the New Western District of Yangzhou, the hotel is steps away from the Conference and Exhibition Center and a short drive to the city center and famous Slender West Lake. Yangzhou Rail-way Station is five minutes from the hotel by car. Yangzhou Taizhou Airport is approximately 30 minutes away and Nanjing Lukou International Airport is an hour and a half's drive.

Business or leisure travelers will enjoy the hotel's signature Horizon Club facilities, with a lounge on the top floor of the building showcasing sweeping views of Mingyue Lake, and with free coffee and other refreshments throughout the day.

Horizon Club privileges include express check-in and check-out services, personal concierge and secretarial service, complimentary buffet breakfast, evening cocktails, daily newspapers and use of conference and meeting facilities.