W Hotels Worldwide has launched its second site on mainland China, the W Beijing – Chang’an, situated close to many of the city's famous sites.

The W brand combines trendsetting design, innovative programming, modern luxury and a Whatever/Whenever service philosophy. It is part of Starwood Hotels & Resorts, which recently became the first hotel chain to do away with keys, allowing guests to use their smartphones to unlock rooms.

The 349-bed hotel features fittings such as a digital tablet to manipulate the lighting, 48” LED tv and Bluetooth sound system. There is a round bathtub in king bedrooms and suites.

Other amenities include a bar, a cocktail lounge, two restaurants, meeting space, an Away Spa, fitness centre and pool.

General manager, Greg Findlay, said: “W Beijing – Chang’an offers a lifestyle experience that draws upon W Hotel’s New York roots, with the local flavour and design influences of Beijing.”

Global brand leader for the W Hotels, St Regis and Luxury Collection, Paul James, said this is a milestone for the company, which plans seven W Hotels in major Chinese cities within the next five years.

This is the 45th W Hotel worldwide and the second in mainland China, after W Guangzhou. Starwood has nearly 140 hotels in Greater China with a pipeline of 130, as well as many others across Asia Pacific.