Hotel is conveniently located close to a main subway that goes directly to forbidden city and other tourist zones. A lot of people got off at this station so you can get on rhe half empty subway which means you won’t experience the usual rush hour in the morning. There are a lot of mom and pop restaurants close by so you can also experience the neighborhood a**osphere/convenience without the usual tourist traps.
The breakfast is FANTASTIC, everything is super fresh and delicious so I would definitely recommend include it o the reservation.
Room/beds are super clean/comfortable too!! Everyone at the hotel always makes you feel welcome and at home.
Personally, I would still prefer the Shangri-la chain around CBD if I’m not visiting forbidden city. BUT this time since my partner is visiting China for the first time, our itinerary is focused on forbidden city staying in CBD would mean the worst rush hour in the morning and there is less neighborhood feel/convenience, if you consider all of these together I would highly recommend this Atour.