The first Design Hotel in China, The Emperor is two parts innovative design and one part Ikea. Housed in the former residence of the Imperial Guards adjacent to the Forbidden City, each of its 55 rooms is named after one of China’s many emperors. Waiting for you upon arrival is a complimentary chop, or Chinese seal, with the name of your emperor that makes a great souvenir. There is great attention to detail, such as early evening canapés brought to your room and a selection of design books for your perusal. Striking orange, turquoise and lime-green furnishings are juxtaposed against white, varnished built-ins (which are reminiscent of a ship’s cabin). The restaurant, Shi, serves inventive Imperial Chinese cuisine and the rooftop terrace bar, Yin, has a fabulous view over the Imperial Palace and was the place to watch the Olympic fireworks.