Renaissance Hotels launches new documentary and cultural campaign

Renaissance Hotels, part of Marriott Bonvoy’s portfolio of 30 extraordinary brands, has unveiled a new brand documentary and launched its “Discover the Lychee Road With Renaissance” campaign across China. The initiative draws inspiration from four literary works by renowned Chinese author and Renaissance Hotels Navigator Ambassador Ma Boyong, including his celebrated novel "The Lychee Road." Guests at 33 Renaissance hotels across China are invited to embark on immersive journeys rich in storytelling and cultural depth.

The campaign features a new brand film, “Discover the Unexpected With Renaissance,” inviting travelers to follow Ma’s creative perspective as they explore hidden cultural gems via the Renaissance Navigator Map. Guests can immerse themselves in the brand’s signature artistic designs and the “Evenings at Renaissance” program, which blends local culture with unique nightlife experiences.

“The pursuit of culture and appreciation of art is inspiring more and more travelers to set out on new journeys,” said Betty Tian, Marriott International's managing vice president in charge of customer experience. “Following our highly acclaimed collaboration with Ma Boyong to launch the Renaissance Navigator Map last year, we are once again blending the enjoyment of literature with the excitement of travel to elevate the cultural experience within our hotels and offer guests unexpected journeys of discovery.”

“The ‘Discover the Lychee Road With Renaissance’ journey begins at every Renaissance hotel, guiding guests into the cultural fabric of each destination through local flavors, stories, and traditions,” said Ma. “I’m thrilled to reunite with Renaissance Hotels as a Renaissance Navigator to embark on spontaneous journeys, where every encounter becomes part of a shared story with fellow travelers.”

Guests are invited to engage with an interactive H5 game inspired by "The Lychee Road," stepping into the shoes of protagonist Li Shande to solve challenges involving the delivery of lychees from South China to present-day Xi’an. Meanwhile, hotels across China offer literary-themed board games, including an oversized version of "Snakes and Ladders" available in lobbies and suites for guests to enjoy.

Returning for this campaign, the brand’s signature “Evenings at Renaissance” program features four custom cocktails inspired by Ma’s novels. Highlights include “Dragon’s Whisper in Lychee Palace” — a harmonious blend of sweet lychee and bold spirits. These drinks are accompanied by story-themed coasters and ice picks and are available at all 33 Renaissance Hotels across China.

Renaissance Shenzhen Bay Hotel has introduced a Tang Dynasty-inspired afternoon tea themed “Lychee Elegance,” creatively combining ancient charm with the sweet allure of lychees.

Additionally, Renaissance Hotels has partnered with Wanda Cinemas to host exclusive screenings of "The Lychee Road" in Beijing, Shanghai, Shenzhen, and Xi’an, offering special movie ticket perks for hotel guests.