CHECK IN, BLISS OUT

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1. HOTEL NEW OTANI TOKYO EXECUTIVE

HOUSE ZEN

There aren’t many hotels better located than this one, set in central Tokyo and with easy access to the happening neighbourhoods of Roppongi, Shinjuku and Ginza. Enjoying a prime perch within the larger Hotel New Otani Tokyo complex (read on below), the property has access to a staggering 37 restaurants ranging from authentic Japanese fare to Michelinstarred French cuisine. And then there’s the 400-year-old Japanese garden… The hotel’s whole design takes inspiration from this Buddhist philosophy: switching off, finding inner peace, appreciating the force of nature. Take time to appreciate the executive lounge – all guests have access to this haven, dishing up everything from canapes and cocktails to croissants. Tokyo is home to some of the most individual – and memorable – hotels in the world. Here are eight of our favourites, all in the Preferred Hotels & Resorts portfolio.

2. HOTEL NEW OTANI, THE MAIN

When you’ve indulged in the copious restaurants, explored the expansive Zen gardens – replete with waterfalls and cool groves – and enjoyed your lively neighbourhood, your slick room beckons. Check in to one of The Main’s Shin-Edo Room offerings for niceties like hinoki wood bathtubs, complimentary sake and palace views. Not to mention some of the best bed linens you will ever curl up in. Just try to get out of this bed early….

OPPOSITE PAGE, FROM TOP: Views for days from the Lounge at the Hotel New Otani Executive House Zen; the lush Hotel New Otani Japanese garden

3. KEIO PLAZA HOTEL TOKYO Whether you’re here to explore the bustling streets of Shinjuku (the heart of Tokyo and the hotel’s prime perch), or explore further afield (enjoy a free shuttle bus to Tokyo Disney Resort), this is a family fave in the heart of the Japanese capital. Other diversions include a sky pool (dive in over the summer months) and décor that speaks of Japanese culture.

4. ROYAL PARK HOTEL Within easy reach of Narita and Haneda international airports in Tokyo’s Nihonbashi district, the Royal Park is like a little slice of Zen in the Japanese capital. The fact that there are nine restaurants and bars to choose from make the offering all the more appealing. And then there are the slicklyfitted rooms, with every amenity you could dream of.

ABOVE: Executive Lounge at the Royal Park Hotel OPPOSITE PAGE, FROM TOP: Welcome to fine Japanese dining at the Keio Plaza Hotel Tokyo; a Superior King Room at the Cerulean Tower Tokyu Hotel

5. CERULEAN TOWER TOKYU HOTEL

Japanese culture, fashion and entertainment are at their headiest in Shibuya, your base when you check in to this hotel. Take in views of the glittering cityscape – all the way to Mt Fuji. The hotel boasts eight dining options, from upscale French classics to Japanese fine dining and casual afternoon tea, combining diverse dishes with stunning city views. The wellness and fitness facilities are fully equipped to relax and refresh – plunge in to the pool, work out in the gym, be pampered with a massage or laze on the sun deck.

The property is a hub for creative types, uniting vintage and modern decor.

6. THE SHIBUYA STREAM EXCEL

HOTEL TOKYU

Steps to Shibuya Station? It’s a reality when you check in to this hotel. Location aside, the property is a hub for creatives, uniting vintage and modern décor, but without skimping on creative comforts. A highlight is Torrent restaurant and bar, serving Japanese-inspired bistro dishes and creative cocktails. Just to make your life easier, Meister Room (a public area set on each floor) is equipped with clothing and shoe care goods, designer cooking utensils and wellness machines. Talk about efficiency.

THIS SPREAD, CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: The lobby at the Shibuya Stream Excel Hotel Tokyu; the Sanno Suite at the Capitol Hotel Tokyu; exterior of the same hotel; sweet dreams at the Shibuya Excel Hotel Tokyu; the Shibuya Stream Excel Hotel Tokyu’s design-driven rooms

7. THE CAPITOL HOTEL TOKYU

Japanese tradition and forwardthinking ingenuity unite at this gracious abode, overlooking the Japanese parliament building and neighbouring historic Hie Shrine. You’d hardly know you’re in such a central position, though, thanks to the oasis of greenery that envelops the building. Rooms offer sophisticated Japanese modern spaces with traditional Japanese architectural styles that feature shoji (sliding paper doors) and fusuma (Japanese sliding screens).

8. SHIBUYA EXCEL HOTEL TOKYU

This property cuts a dramatic form over the fashion, dining and nightlife district of Shibuya. Safe to say, it’s a central hub, with direct access from the hotel to Shibuya station. Not that you’ll want to leave. You can dine with breathtaking views from French restaurant A bientôt or Japanese restaurant Shunsai. Meals to remember. After a day exploring the city, sink into rooms that deliver every creature comfort.