Crowne Plaza JINAN RUNHUA by IHG

Jinan is always our last stop to rest on our drive back to Beijing. We've stayed at the Intercontinental and Kempinski before, but this time we chose the Crowne Plaza because it's newly opened and not far from the highway. Although the surrounding area is still under development, the amenities are decent, and it's very convenient for dining, entertainment, and shopping. We took the kids to eat sour fish soup and visited the science museum (which is much better than the China Science and Technology Museum in Beijing). The hotel's hardware is also satisfactory. The only minor drawback was that the smart toilet in our suite didn't come with a remote control, and the front desk didn't respond immediately when I called. Thankfully, Front Office Manager Wang Na (Elena) proactively apologized and provided a reasonable explanation when we checked out. All in all, despite this minor flaw, the hotel offers good value for money.

The room had two beds pushed together, which was big enough for a family of three to sleep comfortably without feeling cramped. I remembered seeing photos online that showed the room having a bathtub, but when I arrived, I found there wasn't one. I spoke to the front desk about changing to a room with a bathtub, and to my surprise, they upgraded us for free! The service was excellent, and everyone was very welcoming. The breakfast was just okay.

The room facilities are complete, comfortable, and cozy, and the hygiene is excellent. There's an underground parking lot, and the breakfast offers a rich selection of both Chinese and Western dishes, all exquisite and delicious. The staff are warm and attentive, and the hotel's location is very close to the exhibition center.

This hotel, opened in 2024, boasts new facilities and a modern business design. The rooms offer expansive views and are very clean. The breakfast is a definite highlight, with a rich variety of options, including Jinan local specialties like 'Bazi Rou' (braised pork) and 'Tianmo' (a savory millet porridge). The service is generally excellent, with quick responses from both the concierge and front desk. They are also quite generous with upgrades for IHG members. The main drawback is the location. It's quite a distance from traditional attractions like Baotu Spring and Daming Lake, requiring about a 30-minute taxi ride. Currently, there's a construction site nearby, so some rooms might experience noise during the day. It's a good choice for a transit stay near the high-speed train station or for business travelers who value a quality breakfast. However, if you're primarily visiting the city center attractions, you might want to consider the commuting time and cost.

I stayed here for a business trip last year and was very satisfied, so I chose it again this year. Facilities: The design is well-thought-out, with ample space. The mattress is on the firmer side, and it's convenient for working. The bathroom has a wet/dry separation, the shower pressure is great, and the towels are thick and soft. Cleanliness: Very clean, and the room had no strange odors. Environment: It's close to Jinan West Railway Station, but there aren't many dining options nearby. Service: The staff are all friendly, and we received a complimentary soft drink upon check-in. The baked goods at breakfast weren't as good as last year, but the Chinese food was still decent.

Ambiance: Great Service: Great Cleanliness: Spotless