We are thrilled to announce the grand opening of ONE Event China!
From sunrise Tai Chi on the incredible Great Wall to an after-hours tour in the Forbidden City, or to a river cruise through Shanghai’s iconic skyline – China invites you to experience something extraordinary. With our expert local team, every incentive or corporate event becomes a journey of connection, inspiration, and unforgettable memories.
To introduce the destination that led the world in literature, arts, sciences, technology and philosophy, we sat down with Maricell Villarroel, Managing Director of ONE Event Asia, who shared her insights about what makes China so special for business events.
Q&A with Maricell Villarroel – Managing Director, ONE Event Asia
What excites you most about welcoming international groups to China?
“For me, it’s the privilege of opening a door into a world that always surprises you. China isn’t just a destination, it’s an experience. It’s full of contrasts, hospitality, and energy. After living here for 17 years, I still find moments that leave me speechless. Every group that visits gets to feel that same sense of discovery.”
As travelers, we often dream about exploring places that awaken our curiosity and sense of wonder, and China delivers that in abundance. Beyond the famous landmarks, every corner reveals new possibilities.
What makes China unique for incentives and corporate events?
China has everything – historic palaces, futuristic cities, peaceful gardens, and vibrant local life.
“For our guests, that means endless possibilities,” says Maricell.
“You can host a gala dinner under temple rooftops, take part in a traditional tea ceremony, visit one of the world’s leading tech centers, or engage in local CSR initiatives. Every program can be tailored in ways that make China truly unique, different, unforgettable and unmissable.”
When planning international events, accessibility is key, and China makes it surprisingly easy to connect from almost anywhere in the world.
Is it easy to travel to China?
Yes, now more than ever. The destination connects directly or with short stopovers to most major cities around the world. Inside the country, modern airports, fast immigration, and high-speed trains make travel effortless.
“It’s all designed to feel welcoming and efficient from the moment you land,” Maricell explains. “Guests notice the care – and how easy everything feels.”
Modern innovation and ancient traditions coexist beautifully in China, and that balance is something every visitor remembers long after they return home.
How do you mix tradition and modern life in your events?
“That’s the beauty of China – both worlds exist side by side,” Maricell says.
“You might start your morning doing Tai Chi beneath ancient cypress trees, then spend your afternoon in an AI-powered innovation center. Guests might enjoy tea brewed by a master, then return to their hotel where service robots deliver their gifts. It’s a balance that feels natural here.”
Each Chinese city offers something completely unique, from imperial heritage to cutting-edge creativity. Together, they create a destination that feels endlessly inspiring for MICE groups.
Which cities should MICE planners keep an eye on?
Each city has its own personality:
- Beijing: full of history and home to the Forbidden City & the Great Wall.
- Shanghai: modern, stylish, and full of life.
- Chengdu: famous for pandas and incredible Sichuan cuisine.
- Hangzhou: romantic and peaceful by the West Lake.
- Xi’an: home to the Terracotta Warriors and ancient stories.
- Chongqing: futuristic, bold, and full of neon lights.
“There’s something fresh and exciting about every place – that’s what makes planning here so inspiring,” says Maricell.
Hosting large-scale events in a new country can sound daunting, but China makes it easy. The country’s venues and infrastructure are world-class, designed to accommodate every kind of group from intimate gatherings to grand-scale production.
How well is China set up for big events?
“Better than anywhere I’ve seen,” says Maricell. “From huge convention centers in Shanghai to beautiful heritage venues in Beijing, the scale and quality are amazing. Whether it’s 50 or 10,000 people, everything runs with precision.”
Every destination has its “wow moment”, the one experience that defines it. We asked Maricell what her dream event in China would look like, and her answer was nothing short of magical.
A dream experience: dinner on the Great Wall
“My dream is to organize a private evening on the Great Wall – not just a dinner, but a story,” says Maricell.
“Guests would meet experts restoring the Wall, take part in a small symbolic ritual, then follow a torch-lit path to an elegant dinner under the stars. The food, music, and atmosphere would all bring history to life. It’s the kind of experience people never forget.”
Sustainability is becoming an essential part of event design everywhere, and China is no exception. The country is taking big steps toward greener travel and community engagement.
Sustainability and local connection
China is moving fast toward greener, more responsible travel. Many venues are now eco-certified, and local experiences support communities directly. For groups, that means events that are meaningful as well as memorable.
As travelers, we all try to include a hidden gem or two in our itineraries – something unexpected that adds personality to the journey. The same goes for business travel, so we asked Maricell what her favorite hidden spot in China is.
Maricell’s hidden gem
“There’s a little hand-pulled noodle bar in a quiet Beijing courtyard – no sign, just the sound of noodles being stretched by hand. It’s small, warm, and full of heart. Every time I visit, I’m reminded that in China, even the simplest moments can feel special.”
Welcome to ONE Event ASIA
From power meetings to panda encounters, and from the Great Wall to Shanghai’s skyline, this destination offers moments that inspire, connect, and amaze.
Ready to plan your next event in China?
Learn more about what ONE Event Asia has to offer: here.
If possible in the NL, brochure to be added not the link.
Contact us to start planning!