Tokyo has legions of fans (including me) and it also has an incredible collection of places to stay. From cute boutiques to sleek and modern, here are my favorite spots in this extraordinary city…
I was a huge fan of the trendy community-focused Asakusa Kokono Club Hotel, which offers everything from family rooms to very swish suites.
The area is the theatre and entertainment district and I love that it has a local neighborhood vibe, is surrounded by restaurants, and is also near Asakusa train station for easy access to the rest of the city.
They’ve partnered with local artisans to create unique boutique-style interiors, and the vibe was trendy but laid-back—and the staff was, too!
My room was a hip zen-like cocoon with hard wooden floors, retro-style furniture, and sloping large glass windows offering superb city views. Some of my other favorite highlights include regular live music, cultural and community events, and the choice of a Western or Japanese-style breakfast.
I highly recommend trying to book either a SkyTree View or a room with terrace to make the most of the superb city views! Even though there was no on-site spa, this place has some seriously awesome things going on!
2. Henn na Hotel
Summing up all that’s weird and wonderful about this city is the ultra-whacky spot located in the neighborhood area of Nishikasai (and offers a complimentary shuttle to the nearby Tokyo Disney Resort and is close to Maihama Station station for easy access to the rest of the city).
Otherwise known as simply ‘The Weird Hotel’ I was checked in at reception by talking robots – either a scary-looking dinosaur or a female android with blinking lashes!
They even robotically delivered my luggage to my room courtesy of an automated trolley! The vibe and staff were fun and friendly and my room was cozy, and modern with some more interesting gadgets.
My other favorite highlights include facial recognition technology, where a digital image of my face was registered during check-in instead of the standard electronic keys. I would suggest eating off-site if you want more of a varied restaurant menu. Overall, though, it was fun, crazy, and affordable, and I loved it! There is also a Kyoto and Osaka version too, bonus!
3. Aoyama Grand
Located in the buzzy fashion and cultural district which is filled with excellent restaurants and near the Watarium Museum of Contemporary Art, and the Aoyama Kumano Shrine is this very trendy 5-star hotel.
The inviting facade pulled me into carefully designed spaces with clean lines that merged mid-century modern and Japanese styling. The vibe was trendy but not intimidating, and the staff were very attentive!
My luxurious room had a soothing decor, floor-to-ceiling windows, and city views. If you can I suggest trying to book a room with a garden view as it’s a pretty spot complete with a cute pond and bamboo grove.
My other favorite highlights include a fitness center, several eateries serving Japanese and international cuisine, and a rooftop bar with stunning panoramic views of the capital! I would just say that this is a high-end place, so prices will reflect this.
4. Trunk Hotel
This is a beautiful, centrally located contemporary boutique with a strong eco-focus! Housed in a minimalist building in the trendy fashion district of Shibuya, it is modern and unique, with enough quirky features to keep things interesting. The vibe was hip, and the staff were attentive but not intrusive.
My room features floor-to-ceiling windows, artwork, lots of mod cons, and designer up-cycled furniture I loved that the bar was made from wood reclaimed from old Japanese houses, the glasses were pressed from defunct light bulbs, and even the gowns in the rooms were made of recycled cotton!
My other favorite highlights include a restaurant serving delicate Japanese-Western fusion and a lifestyle store selling Tokyo-made keepsakes. I would highly recommend trying the locally sourced honey and craft beer.
If you can, I would suggest a room with balconies or terraces or even a luxury suite that offers wow-inducing wine cellars and sunrooms!
- To book, check prices or availability for the Trunk Hotel
5. One@Tokyo
Located within a stone’s throw of Tokyo Skytree in the downtown Oshiage area of eastern Tokyo is this stunning boutique just a 3-minute stroll from Oshiage Subway Station (which connects you to the rest of the city).
The interiors are designed by acclaimed cult architect Kengo Kuma. I loved the arty wooden façade and my industrial-style room, which featured acid-washed metal, reclaimed wood, and lots of glass. It also had mod cons like free WiFi, a Chromecast flat-screen TV, and a handy loaner Smartphone. The vibe was funky and youthful, and so were the staff!
More of my favorite features included the rooftop lounge with fabulous views and the range of rooms that are designed to suit a range of budgets.
I would just say that there was no on-site restaurant, and some rooms were very compact, so I highly recommend opting for one of the exquisite suites located on the top floor if you can afford it!
6. K5
I was a big fan of this hip, edgy 4-star boutique located in the financial district just across the street from the Tokyo Stock Exchange and a 5-minute walk from the Nihombashi Station.
I love that the historic 1924 building has been lovingly reinvented, and the vibrant, eclectic decor is balanced with thoughtful use of space and greenery. The vibe was hip but laid back, and the staff was friendly.
My room was well-planned out and soundproofed. It came with quirky design details, seating lounge areas, a minibar, slippers and pyjamas, complimentary toiletries, and—my favorite—a record player with a curated vinyl record collection! Other amenities include free Wi-Fi and tea and coffee makers.
My other favorite highlights include the onsite trendy restaurant, with waiters dressed as Caveman (!) serving dishes inspired by cuisines from Japan, France, and Denmark it’s just that breakfast was a little limited.
I highly recommend visiting the hipster-friendly Brooklyn Brewery, the Switch coffee lounge, and the trendy Ao bar before leaving!
- To book, check prices or availability for Hotel K5
7. Andaz
This 5-star hotel is seriously stunning! It’s located in the prestigious Toranomon “Gate of the Tiger” district near historic landmarks like the Imperial Palace, Atago Shrine, Zojoji Temple, and Ginza subway station.
I loved the boutique-style interiors, which cleverly used space with natural materials and clean, modern lines. The vibe was chic and luxurious, and the service was exceptional and felt very personal.
I adored my room with floor-to-ceiling windows and stunning city views and I would highly recommend opting for a bay if it’s available. More of my favorite highlights include a chic spa, a large swimming pool with city views, and the funky Technogym.
As I expected, the dining options were very special too, with the Tavern – Grill & Lounge, American comfort food at BeBu (I would suggest ordering their incredible truffle fries!), a sushi counter, and a pastry shop. However, for me, the rooftop bar on the 52nd floor was the most wow-inducing feature!
8. Artist Hotel, BnA STUDIO
This is a quirky, centrally-located boutique in the shopping haven Akihabara retail district, near the train station and interesting exhibitions at 3331 Arts Chiyoda.
The design is funky, and I particularly loved that renowned Japanese artists individually designed every room, from traditional and boutique to manga and amine. The vibe is eclectic and laid back, and the staff is always eager to please.
I loved the funky, unique, industrial-chic design of my bedroom, which was larger than most others I’d stayed in the city. It also came with free WiFi, a flat-screen TV, an air conditioner, and a very handy kitchenette. Some rooms came with two beds, perfect for families.
I highly recommend booking one with a balcony if you can! Since there was no on-site restaurant, I explored all the local ones instead.
9. Roppongi Hotel S
This place won the prestigious Good Design Award for being Japan’s most unique boutique, and when I visited, I could see why! The contemporary design, with its quintessentially Japanese style and clever use of space, was wow-inducing.
It has a central location between the Nishi Azabu crossing and Roppongi Hills (a restaurant complex and a skyscraper with a roof observation deck).
The serviced apartments are perfect for longer stays, and I loved my stylish room, which came with free Wi-Fi, a flat-screen TV, ensuite bathrooms with a soaking tub, a sitting area, microwaves, and a mini-fridge.
My other favorite highlights include a complimentary breakfast, a chic communal lounge, a library, five onsite restaurants to choose from (I would highly recommend the incredible teppanyaki!), a fitness center, and bike rentals. I thought this place was a real gem!
10. all day place
After my stay in this hip place, I knew it had to make the list! It’s located in the bustling, creative Shibuya district, which was my favorite area, and I also love that it is located near the famous Shibuya Crossing and the Center-gai Shopping Street.
The interior spaces have a minimalist, modern design and quirky artwork. The vibe is trendy but not pretentious, and the staff are the same!
My room was clean and bright, with eco-friendly toiletries, cozy pajamas, and minimalist decor. However, some of the rooms were very compact, so I suggest opting for a non-standard one if you can afford it.
My favorite highlights included the on-site Pizza restaurant, which used locally sourced ingredients and homemade dough, the Danish craft brewery, the About Life Coffee shop (I highly recommend their handmade cakes!), and the full English breakfast with veggie options served every morning!
11. Candeo Hotel Roppongi
This swish little beauty is set just off the craziness of the uber-trendy Roppongi district (steps away from the Roppongi station, which connects you to the rest of the city) and near all the entertainment of buzzy Midtown. The design is contemporary with plenty of wood and glass, and the overall atmosphere is trendy, with excellent staff to match!
My stylish minimalist rooms came with a designer bed, a work desk, a flat-screen TV, free Wi-Fi, and great city views, although I couldn’t open my window. I would highly recommend booking a room with a Tokyo Tower view, though, as it’s pretty spectacular!
My favorite highlight, though, was the incredible rooftop Japanese-style bath, otherwise known as an ‘Onsen.’ The aptly named the Sky Spa, it comes complete with indoor and outdoor hot pools, a cold pool, and a sauna.
12. Andon Ryokan
This is a fun, affordable, and sociable gem located only a 5-minute walk from Minowa Subway Station (for quick access to the rest of the city) and a walk from the historical Asakusa for great sightseeing.
I particularly liked the award-winning genius take on the traditional Ryokan (Japanese Inn) mixed with modern design features. Outside it is illuminated so much that it resembles a traditional Japanese lantern!
Inside, the vibe was funky but relaxed with staff who felt like my friends and my guest room was sparse – in a true Ryokan style – but intriguing. It came with a futon bed (that needed to be unrolled) and a TV, free WiFi, and air-con. I had to get used to sharing a bathroom though!
I would highly recommend getting involved in the flower-arranging, cute tea ceremonies and interesting origami sessions they offer. Other amenities include cooked Western breakfasts, a communal hot tub, and loaner bikes. Overall it totally won me over!
13. Hotel Gracery
I’m a big fan of really crazy places, and this one fitted the bill! This is an off-the-wall Godzilla-themed hotel with a fun vibe located in the central lively area of Shinjuku, steps away from the Shinjuku train station (which connects you to the rest of the city).
I loved the very Instagrammable Godzilla statue on the roof, the interactive Godzilla room (I’ll offer no spoilers here; you’ll have to find out for yourself!), and the Godzilla-themed treats! I would say that many rooms have a minimalist style, so don’t expect a crazy theme in every guest room. All rooms have free WiFi, flat-screen TV, air-con, and complimentary toiletries.
Other amenities include an on-site restaurant offering a tasty buffet breakfast in Japanese-style and Western styles. I suggest booking rooms on the higher levels for incredible city views. This is a very unique and quirky stay!
14. Kimpton Shinjuku
With a “Manhattan meets Tokyo” style, this 5-star boutique has a superb buzzy central Shinjuku district location and a stunning modern design with Japanese artisanal artistry thrown in! The vibe is trendy and exclusive, and the staff couldn’t do enough for me.
My well-designed, bright, and spacious guest room had a comfortable bed, an upscale boutique design, a flat-screen TV, free WiFi, organic toiletries, and superb views. I would suggest booking a room on the higher levels for the best views.
My other favorite highlights included the calm, art-filled communal spaces, the chic terrace bar, the modern gym, the District Brasserie, which served wine and creative cocktails (I would highly recommend their Strawberry Kiss cocktail!), the NYC-style lounge bar, which served coffee and craft beer with indie music and the wow-inducing sleek rooftop bar!
15. Aloft Ginza
This funky retreat stole my heart! It is fabulously centrally located in the exciting shopping district of Ginza, close to subway stations, restaurants, department stores, and boutiques. The decor mixes traditional Japanese design with modern touches, making the vibe fun and youthful!
My bright room had a 9-foot ceiling and was fairly spacious (for this city, anyway!). It had a comfy bed, great views, free WiFi, and a flat-screen TV. If you have a family, I’d suggest booking the interconnecting rooms.
There were also funky communal spaces, a 24/7 fitness centre (although small), and onsite eateries with creative names and innovative menus, like the WXYZ bar with live music and the WAREHOUSE restaurant. My favorite, though, was the Roof Dogs rooftop bar!
