A Century of Charm: Tokyo Station Hotel

Most travelers are familiar with the mundane, forgettable hotels near train stations. But the Tokyo Station Hotel breaks away from this dreary norm, holding a special place in the hearts of visitors for over a century. Established in November 1915, this elegant hotel is one of the oldest operating in Tokyo, a testament to its resilience amidst earthquakes and wartime destruction.

This is no ordinary hotel. The Tokyo Station Hotel is uniquely positioned within a designated Important Cultural Property – the Marunouchi Building, Tokyo Station’s historic structure. The hotel’s rooms and amenities offer guests a glimpse into the heart of this iconic landmark, providing access to private corners of one of Tokyo’s most beloved symbols.

Tokyo Station is the busiest station in Japan in terms of number of trains per day (more than 3,000). About 350,000 passengers move through its turnstiles daily.

A Journey Through Time

The hotel has witnessed the passage of time, surviving World War II and the devastating Great Kanto earthquake of 1923. Its history is woven into its very being, and it’s a reminder of the enduring strength of this city. Its spirit is evident in the original red brickwork that peeks through its hallways and common areas, a deliberate nod to its past.

In 2012, after a meticulous five-year restoration, the hotel reopened, bringing its timeless elegance to a new generation. The hotel’s staff drew inspiration from the prestigious Waldorf Astoria Hotel in New York, ensuring that the Tokyo Station Hotel embodied the same grandeur and historic charm.

The swanky European-style building was a social hub after the Great Hanshin Earthquake of 1995. Tokyo Station miraculously escaped damage.

A Unique Stay

For a truly unforgettable experience, book a stay in one of the Dome Side Rooms, with breathtaking views of the station’s magnificent domes. These intricate European-style structures, adorned with animal sculptures and reliefs, are a visual feast, a departure from the modern cityscape.

Awaken to the quiet serenity of your room, a stark contrast to the bustling energy of the station below. Imagine the sights and sounds of thousands of commuters starting their day, a unique symphony only you can witness.

Even if you can’t secure a Dome Side Room, the hotel’s second-floor balcony provides similar views. For those preferring a different perspective, other rooms overlook the train tracks or the serene Imperial Palace.

Nominated in this year's World Luxury Spa Awards, the hotel's spa features a man-made hot spring, cold bath, a dry and steam sauna and shower facilities.

More Than Just a Stay

Staying at the Tokyo Station Hotel is more than just a night’s rest; it’s an experience. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at The Atrium, a grand space with soaring nine-meter-high ceilings. Indulge in a delectable buffet featuring international and Japanese delicacies, from French pastries to Japanese porridge, and fresh omelets prepared to your liking.

Step into the legendary Bar Oak, where Japan’s renowned bartender, Hisashi Sugimoto, returns with his iconic creation, the Tokyo Station, a delightful blend of Tanqueray gin and Suze liqueur.

Guests in the Dome Side Rooms experience a unique contrast between (surprisingly) quiet bedrooms and views of thousands of Japanese commuters beginning the day at Tokyo Station.

Immerse Yourself in Japan’s Transportation Hub

One of the hotel’s biggest draws is its unparalleled proximity to Japan’s extensive high-speed rail network. Special rates are available for Japan Rail Pass holders, making it the perfect starting point for exploring the country.

The Tokyo Station Hotel offers a truly unique service – meet-and-greet assistance. Hotel porters will handle your luggage directly on the train platform, saving you the hassle of navigating Tokyo’s complex rail system.

Tokyo Station Hotel opened in 1915, a year after the station. After a five-year renovation, it reopened in 2012.

A Celebration for the Ages

The hotel’s 100th anniversary celebrations have already reached a crescendo. While the exclusive birthday banquet has sold out, you can still witness the dazzling anniversary light show illuminating the Marunouchi Building’s north and south domes.

For those seeking a truly special experience, a stay at the Tokyo Station Hotel is an opportunity to step back in time, experience the charm of a bygone era, and witness the vibrant pulse of modern Tokyo. The hotel offers a unique perspective on the city’s history, culture, and transportation hub, making it an unforgettable destination for travelers seeking an authentic Japanese experience.

As Tokyo's second oldest operating hotel, the hotel's history remains an important part of its identity.

Reference photo

This glamorous hotel is anything but an ordinary train stop. Together with the station, it's been a Tokyo landmark for a century. This picture was taken in 1914, the year the station opened.
Blanc Rouge is the hotel's main restaurant. It serves classic French cuisine with a modern twist and stocks more than 1,000 bottles of wines from Japan and beyond.
In November, one of the great symbols of old Tokyo, the Tokyo Station Hotel, turns 100 years old. The famed hotel is located inside Tokyo Station's Marunouchi Building, designated an Important Cultural Property by the Japanese government in 2003.
The hotel is a known afternoon hangout for the country's political elite.
Dome Side Rooms may not be the most luxurious rooms at Tokyo Station Hotel, but they're the most popular. The rooms offer views of the station's signature heavily ornamented European-style domes.
 A Century of Charm: Tokyo Station Hotel
 A Century of Charm: Tokyo Station Hotel
 A Century of Charm: Tokyo Station Hotel
Alex Kuroda
Alex Kurodahttps://tokyotouristpass.com/
Alex Kuroda is an adventurous travel blogger with a passion for exploring Tokyo's off-the-beaten-path destinations. From quirky neighborhoods to lesser-known attractions, Alex's writing inspires readers to venture beyond the typical tourist spots and discover Tokyo's hidden treasures.

Latest articles

Related articles