Rissai Valley, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve, the latest resort in the Ritz-Carlton Reserve portfolio, was unveiled today in Jiuzhaigou, part of China’s magical “Valley of Nine Villages.”

A UNESCO World Heritage Site and World Biosphere Reserve, the Rissai Valley is located on the edges of the Qinghai-Tibet plateau in China’s Southwestern Sichuan province. An area renowned for its alpine mountains, forests, lakes, and waterfalls, Jiuzhaigou is located about 265 miles north of Chengdu, the capital of Sichuan province.

The property was designed by U.S.-based architectural firm WATG, which paid homage to the natural surroundings and Tibetan heritage with the use of traditional building forms and locally-sourced materials. The landscaping was led by John Pettigrew, who created gardens with indigenous planting to reflect the extraordinary landscape. And the hotel’s interiors were designed by the late Indonesian interior design legend Jaya Ibrahim.

Rissai Valley offers 87 villas with views of the snow-capped Minshan mountain range, forests and ancient Tibetan villages.

Upon arrival, guests are welcomed with a Zhaxi Dele Tibetan blessing ceremony. Throughout their stay, a team of local Tibetan culturalists, artisans, chefs, and healers, welcome them into the ancient culture and connect them with the people of Jiuzhaigou. In addition, each villa has a dedicated personal host – a “nieba” in the local language – who takes care of every detail for guests.

Rissai Valley features four dine and drink venues. Bo Ri Village offers all-day dining in an ancient village situated opposite the Reserve. Refined Sichuan restaurant Cai Lin Xuan highlights local specialties. La Montagne serves up western fare and al fresco barbeques with breathtaking views. And the Lobby Lounge is a relaxing, intimate venue for afternoon teas or evening cocktails.

To meet guests’ wellness needs, Rissai Spa offers a selection of healing treatments and experiences based on centuries-old Tibetan wisdom and healing modalities. Guests can also take part in sound therapy and yoga sessions by a cascading waterfall. The property also has a large infinity swimming pool with views of the mountains.

Meeting and event spaces at Rissai Valley include a 2,300+-square-foot ballroom with indoor and outdoor spaces that can accommodate up to 200 guests, and private dining rooms in both La Montagne and Cai Lin Xuan restaurants.

“Rissai Valley is a truly magical place, nestled in the landscapes and surroundings of one of the most mythical natural wonders of the world,” said Marcel Damen, general manager, Rissai Valley. “As the first Ritz-Carlton Reserve in China, we look forward to welcoming guests to a place of marvelous beauty, and to experience the many curated experiences that connect guests with the rich local culture. A stay at Rissai Valley will inspire many memories that will last a lifetime.”