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Tours in Tokyo |
As you might expect from a city this size, Tokyo offers an enormous array of places to lay your head. From traditional Japanese futons and western king-size luxury, to wacky pay-by-the hour ‘love hotels' and tiny capsule pods, there is a room to suit every budget. As with everything else in Tokyo, the neighbourhood you choose determines the flair and flavour of your visit. One thing remains a constant however, hotel rooms are small, so if space is important to you, prepare to pay for it.
All hotel accommodation is subject to a number of taxes. Japan's consumption tax, which currently stands at 5%, is added to the final bill. Rooms costing ¥15,000 or more per night (including service charges) incur an extra 3% tax. A flat tax is also required, at a rate of ¥100 per person per night on rooms costing between ¥10,000 and ¥14,999, and ¥200 per person per night on rooms costing ¥15,000 or more. Tipping is not customary and might even offend, but luxury hotels add a 10-15% service charge to hotel bills.
The hotels below have been grouped into four different pricing categories:
$$$$ (over ¥45,000)
$$$ (¥30,000)to ¥45,000)
$$ (¥15,000 to ¥30,000)
$ (under ¥15,000)
These prices are the starting prices for a double or twin room and do not include breakfast, unless otherwise stated.
All hotel accommodation is subject to a number of taxes. Japan's consumption tax, which currently stands at 5%, is added to the final bill. Rooms costing ¥15,000 or more per night (including service charges) incur an extra 3% tax. A flat tax is also required, at a rate of ¥100 per person per night on rooms costing between ¥10,000 and ¥14,999, and ¥200 per person per night on rooms costing ¥15,000 or more. Tipping is not customary and might even offend, but luxury hotels add a 10-15% service charge to hotel bills.
The hotels below have been grouped into four different pricing categories:
$$$$ (over ¥45,000)
$$$ (¥30,000)to ¥45,000)
$$ (¥15,000 to ¥30,000)
$ (under ¥15,000)
These prices are the starting prices for a double or twin room and do not include breakfast, unless otherwise stated.
Business
Cerulean Tower Tokyu Hotel
The only high end hotel to be built in Shibuya, the Cerulean is a good choice for visitors looking for some buzz with their business travel. Sleek modern design extends from the lobby to the guest rooms, where high speed Internet access is available alongside the minimalist Asian designed décor. Bathrooms are small but luxurious, those hankering for a bathroom view should request a corner room, where breathtaking vistas are on offer from the bath. At the business salon computers and conference rooms can be hired, and in line with other Tokyo hotels leisure facilities incur an extra cost for each use. However guests on the Executive Floor have fitness club, breakfast and snacks and daily newspapers included in the rate.
26-1 Sakuragaoka-Cho, Shibuya-ku
Tel: (03) 3476 3000.
Website: www.ceruleantower-hotel.com
Price: $$$
The only high end hotel to be built in Shibuya, the Cerulean is a good choice for visitors looking for some buzz with their business travel. Sleek modern design extends from the lobby to the guest rooms, where high speed Internet access is available alongside the minimalist Asian designed décor. Bathrooms are small but luxurious, those hankering for a bathroom view should request a corner room, where breathtaking vistas are on offer from the bath. At the business salon computers and conference rooms can be hired, and in line with other Tokyo hotels leisure facilities incur an extra cost for each use. However guests on the Executive Floor have fitness club, breakfast and snacks and daily newspapers included in the rate.
26-1 Sakuragaoka-Cho, Shibuya-ku
Tel: (03) 3476 3000.
Website: www.ceruleantower-hotel.com
Price: $$$
Hotel New Otani
Located within minutes of the Imperial Palace, this enormous hotel towers over the vibrant Akasaka government and entertainment district. With predictably excellent facilities, including an astonishing 37 restaurants and cafes, tennis courts and an open-air swimming pool, the Otani is every inch the Tokyo mega hotel. But hidden behind the concrete facade is a historic 400 year old Japanese garden: with Tokyo green spaces in desperately short supply, this 10-acre oasis, complete with waterfall, ponds and bridges, offers guests a tranquil haven from the city's hustle and bustle. Rooms range from basic doubles and twins to ‘conceptual suites' such as Suite Hiroshige, whose design is inspired by the famous artist from the Edo era.
1 Kioi-cho, Chiyoda-ku
Tel: (03) 3265 1111.
Website: www.newotani.co.jp
Price: $$$
Located within minutes of the Imperial Palace, this enormous hotel towers over the vibrant Akasaka government and entertainment district. With predictably excellent facilities, including an astonishing 37 restaurants and cafes, tennis courts and an open-air swimming pool, the Otani is every inch the Tokyo mega hotel. But hidden behind the concrete facade is a historic 400 year old Japanese garden: with Tokyo green spaces in desperately short supply, this 10-acre oasis, complete with waterfall, ponds and bridges, offers guests a tranquil haven from the city's hustle and bustle. Rooms range from basic doubles and twins to ‘conceptual suites' such as Suite Hiroshige, whose design is inspired by the famous artist from the Edo era.
1 Kioi-cho, Chiyoda-ku
Tel: (03) 3265 1111.
Website: www.newotani.co.jp
Price: $$$
Hotel Nikko Tokyo
The spectacular curved edifice of this ‘urban resort hotel' is located in Tokyo's bustling waterfront area, close to the Tokyo Big Sight international exhibition centre and only 15 minutes from the city's main business districts. Each guest room has a private balcony overlooking the bay and telephone with modem point, while sophisticated rooftop suites boast private gardens and Jacuzzis. An impressive and memorable venue for functions and conferences, the sumptuous banquet halls offer panoramic sea views, as do the impressive Zen Health Spa, the continental-style Terrace Restaurant and the nautically themed Captain's Bar. The hotel's contemporary design features pale colours, natural materials and works of art. The spacious, airy feel and excellent service make it a fine choice for those not requiring a city centre location.
1-9-1 Daiba, Minato-ku
Tel: (03) 5500 5500.
Website: www.hnt.co.jp/index_en.html
Price: $$$
The spectacular curved edifice of this ‘urban resort hotel' is located in Tokyo's bustling waterfront area, close to the Tokyo Big Sight international exhibition centre and only 15 minutes from the city's main business districts. Each guest room has a private balcony overlooking the bay and telephone with modem point, while sophisticated rooftop suites boast private gardens and Jacuzzis. An impressive and memorable venue for functions and conferences, the sumptuous banquet halls offer panoramic sea views, as do the impressive Zen Health Spa, the continental-style Terrace Restaurant and the nautically themed Captain's Bar. The hotel's contemporary design features pale colours, natural materials and works of art. The spacious, airy feel and excellent service make it a fine choice for those not requiring a city centre location.
1-9-1 Daiba, Minato-ku
Tel: (03) 5500 5500.
Website: www.hnt.co.jp/index_en.html
Price: $$$
Hotel Okura
A Tokyo classic this 1970s hotel is justly famous for its excellent service and great location, minutes from the American Embassy and Roppongi's bustling streets. The classic décor is beautiful and stepping into the lobbies is like stepping back in time. Many of the guest rooms feel slightly tired, however, although with the recent creation of the Grand Comfort Floor, modern Asian design is vastly improving the bedroom decor. Well worth the extra cost these renovated rooms are filled with plush neutral furniture and glass walled bathrooms that increase the sense of space. Comfort Room guests also enjoy the use of the new ‘Relaxation Nature Court', a very well equipped spa offering the latest treatments. Available to other guests for a fee, it makes a wonderful oasis from the city outside, as does the traditional Japanese tea ceremony, performed in a tatami room overlooking a serene garden.
2-10-4 Toranomon, Minato-ku
Tel: (03) 3582 0111.
Website: www.okura.com/tokyo
Price: $$$
A Tokyo classic this 1970s hotel is justly famous for its excellent service and great location, minutes from the American Embassy and Roppongi's bustling streets. The classic décor is beautiful and stepping into the lobbies is like stepping back in time. Many of the guest rooms feel slightly tired, however, although with the recent creation of the Grand Comfort Floor, modern Asian design is vastly improving the bedroom decor. Well worth the extra cost these renovated rooms are filled with plush neutral furniture and glass walled bathrooms that increase the sense of space. Comfort Room guests also enjoy the use of the new ‘Relaxation Nature Court', a very well equipped spa offering the latest treatments. Available to other guests for a fee, it makes a wonderful oasis from the city outside, as does the traditional Japanese tea ceremony, performed in a tatami room overlooking a serene garden.
2-10-4 Toranomon, Minato-ku
Tel: (03) 3582 0111.
Website: www.okura.com/tokyo
Price: $$$
Luxury
Conrad Tokyo
Ingenious interior design is on display on every level of this 290 room hotel, from the understated elegance of Gordon Ramsay's popular restaurant to the large glass bathroom walls that throw light into every guest room. Opened in Tokyo's fashionable Shiodome neighbourhood in early 2005, this 37-storey building has all the facilities a business traveller might need, including high speed wireless Internet access, 10 treatment room spa and luxurious 25m swimming pool. Panoramic views are on offer from every bedroom, choose between the neon lights of the Tokyo Bay skyline and the green oasis of Hama Rikyu Garden, the former royal hunting grounds. The newly created Shiodome area offers the buzz of a multitude of restaurants, theatres and shops right on the doorstep.
1-9-1 Higashi-Shinbashi, Minato-ku
Tel: (03) 6388 8000.
Website: www.conradtokyo.co.jp
Price: $$$
Ingenious interior design is on display on every level of this 290 room hotel, from the understated elegance of Gordon Ramsay's popular restaurant to the large glass bathroom walls that throw light into every guest room. Opened in Tokyo's fashionable Shiodome neighbourhood in early 2005, this 37-storey building has all the facilities a business traveller might need, including high speed wireless Internet access, 10 treatment room spa and luxurious 25m swimming pool. Panoramic views are on offer from every bedroom, choose between the neon lights of the Tokyo Bay skyline and the green oasis of Hama Rikyu Garden, the former royal hunting grounds. The newly created Shiodome area offers the buzz of a multitude of restaurants, theatres and shops right on the doorstep.
1-9-1 Higashi-Shinbashi, Minato-ku
Tel: (03) 6388 8000.
Website: www.conradtokyo.co.jp
Price: $$$
Grand Hyatt Tokyo
Since opening in 2003 as a cornerstone of the jaw dropping Roppongi Hills development, this hotel has become the new byword in luxury. Impeccable lobbies and public spaces welcome every visitor, glistening with polished marble and understated art works. Guest rooms are larger than average and every inch is designed to relax and impress, with flat screen televisions fitted in many bathrooms alongside deep tubs made for relaxing. Each room screams luxury, but really big spenders can relax from the Roppongi throng in their truly excessive presidential suite, which spreads over the entire 21st floor and includes its own outdoor heated swimming pool. Those seeking some spiritual enlightenment can visit the breathtaking Shinto shrine and chapel, while those looking to work up a sweat can head for the swimming pool and fitness centres, easily among the best in the city.
6-10-3 Roppongi, Minato-ku
Tel: (03) 4333 1234.
Website: www.grandhyatttokyo.com
Price: $$$$
Since opening in 2003 as a cornerstone of the jaw dropping Roppongi Hills development, this hotel has become the new byword in luxury. Impeccable lobbies and public spaces welcome every visitor, glistening with polished marble and understated art works. Guest rooms are larger than average and every inch is designed to relax and impress, with flat screen televisions fitted in many bathrooms alongside deep tubs made for relaxing. Each room screams luxury, but really big spenders can relax from the Roppongi throng in their truly excessive presidential suite, which spreads over the entire 21st floor and includes its own outdoor heated swimming pool. Those seeking some spiritual enlightenment can visit the breathtaking Shinto shrine and chapel, while those looking to work up a sweat can head for the swimming pool and fitness centres, easily among the best in the city.
6-10-3 Roppongi, Minato-ku
Tel: (03) 4333 1234.
Website: www.grandhyatttokyo.com
Price: $$$$
Imperial Hotel
The grande dame of Tokyo's international hotels, the Imperial's reputation for impeccable service can be traced back to its 1890 origins. Many changes have taken place since, including the demolition of the art deco building designed by world renowned architect Frank Lloyd Wright, which had incredibly survived Tokyo's devastating 1923 earthquake. Now a thoroughly modern 31-storey building, the hotel currently offers 1,000 rooms equipped with all mod cons, a large lively lobby popular with business people and ladies who lunch, and numerous fine restaurants including the renowned Les Saisons. The traditional Japanese tea ceremony room also attracts a stream of visitors. Despite this loss to the hotel's history, the view over the serene Hibiya Park and excellent position within minutes of Ginza's famous shopping streets confirms the Imperial as one of Tokyo's must-see hotels.
1-1-1 Uchisaiwai-cho, Chiyoda-ku
Tel: (03) 3504 1111.
Website: www.imperialhotel.co.jp
Price: $$$
The grande dame of Tokyo's international hotels, the Imperial's reputation for impeccable service can be traced back to its 1890 origins. Many changes have taken place since, including the demolition of the art deco building designed by world renowned architect Frank Lloyd Wright, which had incredibly survived Tokyo's devastating 1923 earthquake. Now a thoroughly modern 31-storey building, the hotel currently offers 1,000 rooms equipped with all mod cons, a large lively lobby popular with business people and ladies who lunch, and numerous fine restaurants including the renowned Les Saisons. The traditional Japanese tea ceremony room also attracts a stream of visitors. Despite this loss to the hotel's history, the view over the serene Hibiya Park and excellent position within minutes of Ginza's famous shopping streets confirms the Imperial as one of Tokyo's must-see hotels.
1-1-1 Uchisaiwai-cho, Chiyoda-ku
Tel: (03) 3504 1111.
Website: www.imperialhotel.co.jp
Price: $$$
Park Hyatt Tokyo
For years a byword in decadent luxury, it was the Hyatt's role as muse and backdrop to Sophia Coppola's 2003 film Lost in Translation that pushed it onto the world stage. The hotel is a stunning 52-storey edifice in fashionable West Shinjuku, and guests check in at the 41st floor reception and first glimpse the stunning views that give this hotel its wow factor. Both the surprisingly spacious guest rooms and public spaces testify to an incredible eye for design, while original artwork is on display everywhere. Bedrooms feature oversized bathrooms with deep tubs and separate showers, while large windows offer stunning views of distant Mt Fuji or the Meiji Shrine. At the technological cutting edge guests can use personal entertainment centres and 24-hour international video-conferencing, while a superb health club and extensive private library offer places to unwind. The renowned New York Bar & Grill and the lively Girandole brasserie are both top-class dining options, and the sumptuous breakfast buffet offers a chance to glimpse numerous famous faces.
3-7-1-2 Nishi-Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku
Tel: (03) 5322 1234.
Website: www.tokyo.hyatt.com
Price: $$$$
For years a byword in decadent luxury, it was the Hyatt's role as muse and backdrop to Sophia Coppola's 2003 film Lost in Translation that pushed it onto the world stage. The hotel is a stunning 52-storey edifice in fashionable West Shinjuku, and guests check in at the 41st floor reception and first glimpse the stunning views that give this hotel its wow factor. Both the surprisingly spacious guest rooms and public spaces testify to an incredible eye for design, while original artwork is on display everywhere. Bedrooms feature oversized bathrooms with deep tubs and separate showers, while large windows offer stunning views of distant Mt Fuji or the Meiji Shrine. At the technological cutting edge guests can use personal entertainment centres and 24-hour international video-conferencing, while a superb health club and extensive private library offer places to unwind. The renowned New York Bar & Grill and the lively Girandole brasserie are both top-class dining options, and the sumptuous breakfast buffet offers a chance to glimpse numerous famous faces.
3-7-1-2 Nishi-Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku
Tel: (03) 5322 1234.
Website: www.tokyo.hyatt.com
Price: $$$$
Seiyo Ginza
Japanese luxury does not have to come in large packages, a fact that strikes you the moment you enter this beautiful yet intimate hotel. A step above the high rise hotels that are filling the city, Seiyo is designed as the home you wish you could afford, with every one of the 77 rooms filled with plush neutral tones and soft fabrics, walk in wardrobes and separate showers. Lobbies and lounges are intimately designed, the perfect place to relax over a cup of green tea and one of the hotel's magnificent macaroons. This being Tokyo, the technology is cutting edge, but personal service is the hotel's selling point. Nothing it too much trouble for the impeccably trained staff, personal preferences are quietly uncovered and then discreetly met, and this is the only hotel that offers personal butler service to every one of its guests. Set just moments from the bustling high end shopping streets of Ginza, the location is perfect for people-watching and enjoying the quieter side of Tokyo living. Although lacking the city views that naturally come with a high rise, and too small for a swimming pool, this award-winning hotel proves the adage that small really is beautiful.
1-11-2 Ginza, Chuo-ku
Tel: (03) 3535 1111.
Website: www.seiyo-ginza.com
Price: $$$$
Japanese luxury does not have to come in large packages, a fact that strikes you the moment you enter this beautiful yet intimate hotel. A step above the high rise hotels that are filling the city, Seiyo is designed as the home you wish you could afford, with every one of the 77 rooms filled with plush neutral tones and soft fabrics, walk in wardrobes and separate showers. Lobbies and lounges are intimately designed, the perfect place to relax over a cup of green tea and one of the hotel's magnificent macaroons. This being Tokyo, the technology is cutting edge, but personal service is the hotel's selling point. Nothing it too much trouble for the impeccably trained staff, personal preferences are quietly uncovered and then discreetly met, and this is the only hotel that offers personal butler service to every one of its guests. Set just moments from the bustling high end shopping streets of Ginza, the location is perfect for people-watching and enjoying the quieter side of Tokyo living. Although lacking the city views that naturally come with a high rise, and too small for a swimming pool, this award-winning hotel proves the adage that small really is beautiful.
1-11-2 Ginza, Chuo-ku
Tel: (03) 3535 1111.
Website: www.seiyo-ginza.com
Price: $$$$
The Strings Hotel
An excellent choice for those wishing to travel both around Tokyo and out of town on the shinkansen, this deluxe hotel offers simple style and strong location. The pared down and stylish lobby is both airy and light, a spot for guests and business associates to relax with a drink while looking above into the large atrium to the floors above. Bedrooms are larger than average, with well designed luxury bathrooms and calming neutral tones. As you would expect the views from the skyscraper are fabulous, and the main restaurant, China Shadow, gives diners an uninterrupted view of the city's skyline. The hotel opened in 2003 and the facilities are small but perfectly designed; a complimentary business centre and a glass walled fitness room with wonderful city views are both available to guests.
26-32Fl, Shinagawa East One Tower, 2-16-1 Konan, Minato-ku
Tel: (03) 4562 1111.
Website: www.stringshotel.com
Price: $$$$
An excellent choice for those wishing to travel both around Tokyo and out of town on the shinkansen, this deluxe hotel offers simple style and strong location. The pared down and stylish lobby is both airy and light, a spot for guests and business associates to relax with a drink while looking above into the large atrium to the floors above. Bedrooms are larger than average, with well designed luxury bathrooms and calming neutral tones. As you would expect the views from the skyscraper are fabulous, and the main restaurant, China Shadow, gives diners an uninterrupted view of the city's skyline. The hotel opened in 2003 and the facilities are small but perfectly designed; a complimentary business centre and a glass walled fitness room with wonderful city views are both available to guests.
26-32Fl, Shinagawa East One Tower, 2-16-1 Konan, Minato-ku
Tel: (03) 4562 1111.
Website: www.stringshotel.com
Price: $$$$
Moderate
Asia Center of Japan
Quite possibly offering the cheapest double rooms in central Tokyo, this hotel has an old fashioned décor at an old fashioned price. Those seeking sleek modern rooms will be left disappointed but as a central base for a short visit, this hotel cannot be beaten. Within walking of the expat haven of Roppongi and the restaurants of Aoyama Itchome, guests are well placed for sightseeing. Facilities include Internet and self-service laundry.
10-32, 8-Chome, Akasaka, Minato-ku
Tel: (03) 3402 6111.
Website: www.asiacenter.or.jp
Price: $
Quite possibly offering the cheapest double rooms in central Tokyo, this hotel has an old fashioned décor at an old fashioned price. Those seeking sleek modern rooms will be left disappointed but as a central base for a short visit, this hotel cannot be beaten. Within walking of the expat haven of Roppongi and the restaurants of Aoyama Itchome, guests are well placed for sightseeing. Facilities include Internet and self-service laundry.
10-32, 8-Chome, Akasaka, Minato-ku
Tel: (03) 3402 6111.
Website: www.asiacenter.or.jp
Price: $
Hotel Excellent
It may lack the design flair of the Villa Fontaine chain but this basic hotel still offers excellent value for money. Situated in the upmarket area of Ebisu, the hotel is surrounded by a residential district filled with restaurants and small shops, giving guests a taste of real Tokyo. The marble lobby is well staffed and although the hotel is on the small side, rooms are more than comfortable.
1-9-5 Ebisu-Nishi, Shibuya-ku
Tel: (03) 5458 0087.
Website: www.soeikikaku.co.jp
Price: $.
It may lack the design flair of the Villa Fontaine chain but this basic hotel still offers excellent value for money. Situated in the upmarket area of Ebisu, the hotel is surrounded by a residential district filled with restaurants and small shops, giving guests a taste of real Tokyo. The marble lobby is well staffed and although the hotel is on the small side, rooms are more than comfortable.
1-9-5 Ebisu-Nishi, Shibuya-ku
Tel: (03) 5458 0087.
Website: www.soeikikaku.co.jp
Price: $.
Hotel Villa Fontaine Shiodome
A step up from Presso chain come the Villa Fontaine hotels. One of seven locations throughout Tokyo, this hotel (opened in August 2004) offers serious bang for your buck. Stylish and with an excellent location, the sleek rooms have the minimalist Asian design ethic sweeping Tokyo's hotels. Standard Queen sized beds offer a comfortable night's sleep whilst those looking for a little more can upgrade to the larger room and King size bed on offer in the Premier Business Room. The hotel is located in the shiny Shiodome district and guests have excellent transport links and facilities right on their doorstep.
1-9-2 Higashi Shinbashi, Minato-ku
Tel: (03) 3569 2220.
Website: www.villa-fontaine.co.jp/eng/shiodome
Price: $-$$
A step up from Presso chain come the Villa Fontaine hotels. One of seven locations throughout Tokyo, this hotel (opened in August 2004) offers serious bang for your buck. Stylish and with an excellent location, the sleek rooms have the minimalist Asian design ethic sweeping Tokyo's hotels. Standard Queen sized beds offer a comfortable night's sleep whilst those looking for a little more can upgrade to the larger room and King size bed on offer in the Premier Business Room. The hotel is located in the shiny Shiodome district and guests have excellent transport links and facilities right on their doorstep.
1-9-2 Higashi Shinbashi, Minato-ku
Tel: (03) 3569 2220.
Website: www.villa-fontaine.co.jp/eng/shiodome
Price: $-$$
Presso Inn
Sold as ‘simple and smart urban accommodations' the Presso chain is serving a growing need in Tokyo, for reasonably priced, basic business accommodation. With branches in Otemachi, Higashi Ginza, Shinjuku and Kanda, the frills are few, but every room is modern, clean and quiet, the lobby is bright and welcoming and there is even a complimentary breakfast of bread, coffee and orange juice for guests. Nearly every room is a single, people hoping to share should book far in advance.
Website: www.presso-inn.com
Price: $
Sold as ‘simple and smart urban accommodations' the Presso chain is serving a growing need in Tokyo, for reasonably priced, basic business accommodation. With branches in Otemachi, Higashi Ginza, Shinjuku and Kanda, the frills are few, but every room is modern, clean and quiet, the lobby is bright and welcoming and there is even a complimentary breakfast of bread, coffee and orange juice for guests. Nearly every room is a single, people hoping to share should book far in advance.
Website: www.presso-inn.com
Price: $
Other Recommendations
Capsule Hotel Riverside
The last resort for the exhausted or drunk ‘salaryman', capsule hotels offer a tiny place to rest your head for a few hours. Clean and white, most of them are male-only, but the Capsule Hotel Riverside in Asakusa is one of a few that also accept women.
2-20-4 Kaminarimon, Taito-ku
Tel: (03) 3844 1155.
Website: www.asakusa-capsule.jp/english
Price: $
The last resort for the exhausted or drunk ‘salaryman', capsule hotels offer a tiny place to rest your head for a few hours. Clean and white, most of them are male-only, but the Capsule Hotel Riverside in Asakusa is one of a few that also accept women.
2-20-4 Kaminarimon, Taito-ku
Tel: (03) 3844 1155.
Website: www.asakusa-capsule.jp/english
Price: $
Ginza Yoshimizu
Tucked away in a quiet side street, this traditional Japanese B&B is a welcome oasis in the urban landscape of neons and giant TV screens of buzzing Ginza. With carefully selected natural materials throughout (think chemical-free tatami and futons, mud walls, bamboo shoji frames and flooring, even cedar light switch plates!) and an organic restaurant on site (serving delicious Japanese breakfast), the emphasis here is very much on healthy living and a return to a more traditional way of life. There are no TVs or fridges in the rooms, but you will find two Japanese style baths on the top floor, a reading room and a hall with a piano in the basement for nighttime entertainment. The staff is extremely friendly and attentive, and they all speak English.
3-11-3 Ginza Chuo-ku
Tel: (03) 3248 4432.
Website: www.yoshimizu.com
Price: $$
Tucked away in a quiet side street, this traditional Japanese B&B is a welcome oasis in the urban landscape of neons and giant TV screens of buzzing Ginza. With carefully selected natural materials throughout (think chemical-free tatami and futons, mud walls, bamboo shoji frames and flooring, even cedar light switch plates!) and an organic restaurant on site (serving delicious Japanese breakfast), the emphasis here is very much on healthy living and a return to a more traditional way of life. There are no TVs or fridges in the rooms, but you will find two Japanese style baths on the top floor, a reading room and a hall with a piano in the basement for nighttime entertainment. The staff is extremely friendly and attentive, and they all speak English.
3-11-3 Ginza Chuo-ku
Tel: (03) 3248 4432.
Website: www.yoshimizu.com
Price: $$
P&A Plaza
There are hundreds of ‘love hotels' scattered throughout the city, offering a few hours' privacy from the overcrowded family houses most young people still live in. Usually booked in two hour slots, many receptions in love hotels are machine operated, with guests paying and receiving keys without ever seeing another person. Although love hotels are found in almost every Tokyo neighbourhood, Shinjuku and Shibuya have the highest concentration. The P&A Plaza in Shibuya offers various themed suites, from jungle-themed rooms to the most infamous, which includes its own pool.
1-17-9 Dogenzaka, Shibuya-ku
Tel: (03) 3780 5211.
Website: http://www.p-aplaza.com/
Price: $
Ryokan Shigetsu
If bland business hotel beds and carb heavy breakfasts are beginning to bore, why not book a room at one of Tokyo's traditional Japanese inns. Just minutes from Tokyo's famous Sensoji Temple, this small but beautiful ryokan is the perfect base for exploring the bustling neighbourhood of Asakusa. Bowing kimono clad receptionists welcome you into a small but bright lobby, filled with calligraphy and Japanese nick nacks. Bedrooms are spacious with sliding doors and en suite bathrooms, all in the simple Japanese style. The ground floor restaurant serves a traditional breakfast of pickles, fish and miso soup, while on the fifth floor a communal bath offers guests the chance to soak their tired bodies in the traditional hot waters, while looking out at the temples beyond.
1-31-11 Asakusa, Taito-ku
Tel: (03) 3843 2345.
Website: www.shigetsu.com
Price: $$
There are hundreds of ‘love hotels' scattered throughout the city, offering a few hours' privacy from the overcrowded family houses most young people still live in. Usually booked in two hour slots, many receptions in love hotels are machine operated, with guests paying and receiving keys without ever seeing another person. Although love hotels are found in almost every Tokyo neighbourhood, Shinjuku and Shibuya have the highest concentration. The P&A Plaza in Shibuya offers various themed suites, from jungle-themed rooms to the most infamous, which includes its own pool.
1-17-9 Dogenzaka, Shibuya-ku
Tel: (03) 3780 5211.
Website: http://www.p-aplaza.com/
Price: $
Ryokan Shigetsu
If bland business hotel beds and carb heavy breakfasts are beginning to bore, why not book a room at one of Tokyo's traditional Japanese inns. Just minutes from Tokyo's famous Sensoji Temple, this small but beautiful ryokan is the perfect base for exploring the bustling neighbourhood of Asakusa. Bowing kimono clad receptionists welcome you into a small but bright lobby, filled with calligraphy and Japanese nick nacks. Bedrooms are spacious with sliding doors and en suite bathrooms, all in the simple Japanese style. The ground floor restaurant serves a traditional breakfast of pickles, fish and miso soup, while on the fifth floor a communal bath offers guests the chance to soak their tired bodies in the traditional hot waters, while looking out at the temples beyond.
1-31-11 Asakusa, Taito-ku
Tel: (03) 3843 2345.
Website: www.shigetsu.com
Price: $$
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