Imagine a railway station hotel – a place of hurried travelers and fleeting visits. But picture this: a hotel that’s not just a stopover, but a historic landmark in its own right. That’s Tokyo Station Hotel, a beacon of elegance and tradition in the heart of bustling Tokyo.
A Living Legacy
This iconic hotel opened its doors in November 1915, making it one of Tokyo’s oldest continuously operating hotels. It’s quite an accomplishment in a city where earthquakes and wartime destruction have left few structures standing for over 70 years. But Tokyo Station Hotel has stood the test of time.
A Place of History and Luxury
Nestled within the historic Marunouchi Building, a designated Important Cultural Property, Tokyo Station Hotel offers a unique blend of luxury and historical significance. Guests staying here aren’t just checking into a hotel, they’re stepping into a piece of Tokyo’s heritage. The hotel’s rooms and amenities face the historic train station, offering guests unparalleled access to one of the city’s most iconic landmarks.
A Timeless Beauty
Refurbished in 2012 after a five-year renovation, Tokyo Station Hotel has retained its historic charm. Throughout the hotel’s corridors and public spaces, glimpses of the building’s original red brickwork serve as a reminder of its rich past. The hotel’s management even sent staff to the Waldorf Astoria Hotel in New York to learn from another iconic landmark. “We learned a lot from that kind of historic and grand hotel,” says Hitoshi Fujisaki, the hotel’s general manager.
A Journey Through Time
To commemorate its 100th anniversary, the hotel is offering a special history-themed accommodation package. For a truly unique experience, consider staying in one of the Dome Side Rooms. These rooms boast stunning views of the station’s ornate, European-style domes, adorned with intricate animal sculptures and reliefs. The domes, preserved during the recent renovation, offer a glimpse into a bygone era. These rooms are a hot commodity, with guests enjoying exclusive access to the station’s interior once the last train departs.
A Day of Contrasts
Imagine waking up to the gentle hum of Tokyo’s busiest station, with thousands of commuters starting their day below your window. That’s the unique charm of staying at Tokyo Station Hotel. While the rooms are peaceful retreats, the views offer a window into the city’s vibrant energy. Rooms without station views offer picturesque views of the train tracks or the Imperial Palace. Even if you can’t snag a Dome Side Room, you can still enjoy similar views from the hotel’s second-floor balcony.
A Culinary Delight
Overnight guests enjoy exclusive access to The Atrium, a stunning space with nine-meter-high ceilings, located on the hotel’s fourth floor. The buffet breakfast offers a delicious blend of international and Japanese cuisine, from French pastries and Japanese porridge to made-to-order omelets.
A Legacy of Flavor
The hotel’s Bar Oak boasts a legendary bartender, Hisashi Sugimoto, who returned in 2015 after joining the bar in 1958. Sugimoto has brought back his immensely popular signature cocktail, the Tokyo Station, a blend of Tanqueray gin and Suze liqueur.
A Seamless Connection
Beyond its historical significance, Tokyo Station Hotel offers a unique blend of convenience and luxury. The hotel’s prime location provides unparalleled access to Japan’s vast high-speed rail network. Guests with Japan Rail Passes can take advantage of special rates, and the hotel’s meet-and-greet service allows porters to pick up or drop off luggage directly on the train platform, saving travelers from navigating Tokyo’s complex rail system.
A Celebration of History
While the hotel’s 100th-anniversary banquet has sold out, you can still be part of the celebration. On November 2nd, from 6 to 9 p.m., witness a special anniversary light show projected from the roofs of the Marunouchi Building’s north and south domes.
Tokyo Station Hotel isn’t just a place to stay, it’s a destination in itself. From its historical charm to its modern amenities, this hotel offers an unforgettable experience that blends the best of Japan’s past and present.
