Tianmen Mountain Restaurant - Guilin, China

Ensconced in the foothills of Tianmen Mountain in Guilin, surrounded by national nature reserves and forests, this dramatic restaurant of the same name, is best accessed via a scenic boat ride. Designed by Beijing-based Architect Liu Chongxiao, the angular glass and steel structure was originally designed to be a beauty spot viewpoint, but the addition of a restaurant makes it an even better place to linger. Inspired by traditional Chinese wood architecture, the structure comprises alternating floor-to-ceiling wood and glass panels with the ground floor elevated to respond to the river’s changing water levels. Guests can enjoy 360 degree views of the dramatic surrounding landscape while they dine.

The restaurant is accessible by boat (Guilin Travel, tel: 86.0773 431 1596) or car (take the G322 Road and S202 Road, from Guilin City to Ziyuan City).