Shanghai’s Paramount Hall Hotel (百乐门), known as the “Ballroom of the East,” is more than just a historic hotel—it’s a living monument to the city’s golden age of jazz, art deco elegance, and 1930s high society. Located in the heart of Jing’an District, this legendary venue has hosted celebrities, gangsters, and diplomats, preserving the spirit of old Shanghai while adapting to modern luxury.
1. A Glimpse into History: The Birth of an Icon
The Roaring 1930s: Shanghai’s Jazz Age
Opened in 1933, the Paramount (originally called “The Paramount Ballroom”) was the most glamorous dance hall in Asia. Designed by Chinese architect Yang Xiyuan, its art deco façade and grand ballroom became synonymous with Shanghai’s cosmopolitan nightlife.
- Famous Patrons:
- Du Yuesheng, the infamous gangster, held lavish parties here.
- American jazz musicians like Buck Clayton performed for elite crowds.
- Socialites and spies mingled during WWII’s turbulent years.
From Decline to Revival
- 1949–2000s: The Paramount faded under Communist rule, used as a cinema and later abandoned.
- 2017: A multi-million-dollar restoration revived its art deco grandeur, blending historic charm with modern hospitality.
2. The Hotel Experience: Where Old Meets New
Art Deco Luxury
The restored Paramount Hall Hotel retains its 1930s glamour with:
- Grand spiral staircases and original stained-glass windows.
- Vintage chandeliers and black-and-white checkered dance floors.
- Jazz-themed suites with bespoke furniture and rotary telephones.
Dining & Nightlife
- The Paramount Ballroom: Now a live jazz venue (weekend performances).
- 1933 Lounge: Craft cocktails inspired by Prohibition-era recipes.
- Shanghainese-French fusion restaurant (try their “Red Velvet” dumplings).
Unique Offerings
- Dance classes (foxtrot, tango, and 1930s-style swing).
- “Gangster & Flapper” themed nights with vintage dress codes.
3. Why Stay Here?
For History Lovers
- Sleep where Shanghai’s elite partied during its “Paris of the East” era.
- Rare archival photos and jazz records displayed in hallways.
For Design Enthusiasts
- A masterclass in art deco restoration—note the geometric motifs and lacquered wood.
For Music Fans
- Live jazz channels the spirit of Buck Clayton and Li Jinhui.
4. Nearby Attractions
- Jing’an Temple (5-minute walk).
- Shanghai Natural History Museum (10-minute drive).
- Former French Concession (15-minute stroll).
5. Know Before You Go
- Price: ¥1,200–¥3,000/night (historic rooms cost extra).
- Dress Code: Smart casual for evening events.
- Fun Fact: The Paramount’s dance floor was once spring-loaded to absorb dancers’ movements!
