The stunning setting of the new Amanyangyun resort – and its back story of sustainability, conservation and passion – as well as top-class gastronomy and hospitality shaped this stand-out event in the south of Shanghai.

The afternoon reception offered the first opportunity for the truly international group of BMW i Pure Impulse members – who had arrived from Germany, the US, Canada, the UK, Korea and China – to get to know one another. They were joined by Martijn Oremus, Head of Brand Management New Energy Vehicles BMW, who was happy to present the new BMW i8 Roadster, soon to be released in China.

A short movie highlighting the astonishing history of the resort – and how the philanthropist owner moved Amanyangyun’s precious ancient camphor forest of 10,000 trees as well as its Ming and Qing dynasty villas across China to preserve them – was the prelude to a tour of the property revealing these wonders to the guests. This tour, with Amanyangyun’s property manager, highlighted the story of the entire landscape and design and looked deeper into the site’s history.

After the groups finished their tours, they were invited to the stunning LAYUN restaurant to enjoy a sumptuous eight-course Chinese dinner. Dishes, some of which intrigued the foreign guests, included fresh abalone with sake, prickly sea cucumber and rice dumplings dusted with soy bean.

The guests enjoyed each other’s company in this wonderful setting, many staying late into the night, before retiring to their Ming Courtyard Suites. They were then energized and refreshed the next morning by a post-breakfast yoga session at the extensive spa and wellness centre, and interested guests were shown the unique ancient houses that are for sale on the property, once again highlighting this stunning sanctuary where history and sustainability come to life.