At the base of the JC Mandarin's 30-story blue-glass towers lies the most memorable lobby in Shanghai. Its five-story hand-painted mural depicts the voyage of the Ming Dynasty admiral Zheng Ho. Opened in 1991, the hotel overhauled most public areas in 2004 and 2005. The Mandarin Club Lounge now occupies an inviting space on the 2nd floor. The fitness center has added a spa. The Cuba cigar bar has carved a stylish lounge out of a former storeroom. Unfortunately, the spacious rooms are long overdue for an update. Though they are comfortable with earthy tones and natural wood, they lack the modern elegance of their five-star competitors.
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