Literary Journeys Await: Renaissance Hotels Unveils Ma Boyong–Inspired Experiences in 33 Chinese Destinations

(IN SHORT) Renaissance Hotels has launched its “Discover The Lychee Road with Renaissance” campaign in Greater China, partnering again with acclaimed author Ma Boyong. Drawing on four of his novels, including The Lychee Road, the initiative blends digital storytelling, interactive on-site experiences, and enhanced “Evenings at Renaissance” events. Guests at 33 hotels will receive a specially designed Navigator Map to uncover local treasures inspired by Ma’s works—such as Panjiayuan Market explorations in Beijing and a Tang-inspired “Lychee Elegance” tea in Shenzhen. The campaign also introduces four novel-themed cocktails, led by “Dragon’s Whisper in Lychee Palace.” Marriott’s Betty Tian emphasizes the blend of culture and travel, while Ma Boyong invites travellers to co-create stories at each property.

(PRESS RELEASE) SHANGHAI, China, 2025-Aug-1 — /Travel PR News/ — Renaissance Hotels, part of the Marriott Bonvoy collection of over 30 distinctive brands, today unveils its “Discover The Lychee Road with Renaissance” campaign across Greater China. In collaboration with celebrated Chinese author Ma Boyong, the initiative draws on four of his notable works—most prominently The Lychee Road—to merge literary inspiration with cultural discovery. From immersive digital experiences and interactive storytelling to enhanced “Evenings at Renaissance” events and cross-sector partnerships, guests at 33 Renaissance properties will embark on journeys shaped by local heritage and Ma Boyong’s evocative narratives.

Central to the campaign is the new brand film, “Discover the Unexpected with Renaissance,” which invites travellers to explore destinations through the author’s imaginative lens. Armed with a bespoke Renaissance Navigator Map, visitors can uncover hidden neighbourhood treasures while soaking in the hotel’s theatrical design elements.

Betty Tian, Managing Vice President for Customer, Greater China, Marriott International, remarked: “Cultural curiosity and artistic appreciation are driving a new wave of travellers. Building on last year’s success with the Renaissance Navigator Map, we’re once again weaving Ma Boyong’s literary vision into our guest experience—elevating both in-hotel moments and off-site adventures.”

Ma Boyong added: “The ‘Discover The Lychee Road with Renaissance’ odyssey begins at every Renaissance Hotel. As a Renaissance Navigator, I look forward to guiding guests through spontaneous explorations where every encounter becomes part of a shared story.”

Creative Interactions
Across Greater China, each Renaissance Hotel will unveil experiences that reflect its locale and Ma Boyong’s storytelling. At Renaissance Beijing Capital Hotel, guests can delve into Panjiayuan Antique Market adventures inspired by The Mystery of Antiques. In Shenzhen, the Renaissance Shenzhen Bay Hotel presents a Tang Dynasty–themed “Lychee Elegance” afternoon tea, marrying ancient aesthetics with the fruit’s sweet allure. A specially crafted flying-chess game, available in dining and lounge areas, encourages guests to connect over playful discovery.

Literary-Inspired “Evenings at Renaissance”
The brand’s signature evening events will feature four bespoke cocktails inspired by Ma Boyong’s novels. Highlighting the launch is “Dragon’s Whisper in Lychee Palace,” a cocktail that captures the essence of The Lychee Road through lychee’s sweetness and a spirited boldness.

For more on Renaissance Hotels, visit https://renaissance-hotels.marriott.com/.

Media Contact

Jo Chen
Senior Manager, CommunicationsMarriott International
Jo.J.Chen@marriott.com

SOURCE: Marriott International, Inc.