Imagine stepping away from the bustling streets of Tokyo, exchanging the neon lights for the soft glow of lanterns, and finding yourself in a haven of serene beauty. That’s the experience waiting for you at Hoshinoya Tokyo, a unique ryokan – a traditional Japanese inn – nestled amidst the skyscrapers of the city’s financial district.
A Sanctuary in the City
This remarkable hotel is a collaboration between Hoshino Resorts, renowned for their commitment to Japanese hospitality, and Azuma Architect & Associates, experts in seamlessly blending tradition and modernity. Hoshinoya Tokyo stands as a testament to their vision, bringing the tranquility of a traditional ryokan experience right to the heart of Tokyo’s vibrant metropolis.
The hotel occupies a sleek, 18-story tower, set back from the bustling streets and surrounded by a courtyard filled with carefully curated trees. The exterior is adorned with a striking aluminum latticework, reminiscent of Edo-era kimono patterns, and illuminated by soft spotlights that create a warm and inviting glow. The subtle entrance, marked by a soba noodle shop, hints at the extraordinary experience that awaits within.
A Journey Through Time
The moment you step through the tall doors of Hoshinoya Tokyo, you are welcomed into a world of understated elegance. Traditional Japanese hospitality unfolds before you as you remove your shoes and place them in beautifully crafted chestnut cubbies, adorned with woven bamboo doors. The soft scent of tatami matting, woven from fragrant rush grass, fills the air, transporting you to a place of calm and serenity.
As you ascend the quiet hallways, you are enveloped in a world of handcrafted beauty. Smooth hand-plastered walls and delicate shoji screens, sliding open to reveal stunning views, create a harmonious blend of tradition and modernity.
A Modern Interpretation of Tradition
“We knew from the outset that we wanted to create a traditional ryokan,” explains Rie Azuma, the architect behind this unique project. “We wondered why Tokyo didn’t have a top-tier ryokan like those found in Kyoto.”
Balancing the essence of traditional ryokan design with the needs of the modern traveler, Azuma meticulously crafted a space that celebrates the beauty of Japanese heritage. The use of natural materials, like chestnut wood, granite, and cypress, brings a warmth and authenticity to the interior, while the integration of contemporary amenities, like modern bathrooms and comfortable beds, ensure a luxurious experience.
A Haven of Relaxation and Renewal
Hoshinoya Tokyo offers 84 beautifully appointed guest rooms, each a haven of tranquility. The rooms are adorned with shoji screens, custom-designed furniture that blends seamlessly with the tatami matting, and modern bathrooms with transparent glass walls that can be made opaque with the flick of a switch.
Adding to the hotel’s serene atmosphere are lounges on each level, offering a tranquil space to enjoy Japanese sweets, freshly brewed green tea, sake, and plum wine. And for the ultimate relaxation experience, the hotel boasts a breathtaking penthouse spa, featuring a hot spring bath sourced from a natural spring discovered beneath the site.
A Symphony of Craftsmanship
Hoshinoya Tokyo is a testament to the collaboration of talented artisans, each contributing their expertise to create a truly unique experience. A renowned lighting consultant carefully illuminated the space, creating a warm and inviting ambience, while a leading woodworking studio crafted the wide chestnut floorboards that grace the hotel’s interiors.
Even the restaurant, where guests can savor light French cuisine infused with Japanese flavors, reflects the hotel’s commitment to craftsmanship. The vestibule walls are adorned with intricate plasterwork, a testament to the skill of a master plasterer, and the granite feature wall was installed by the same company that once supplied the renowned artist Isamu Noguchi.
Rie Azuma’s passion for using natural materials shines through in every detail. “I love the randomness of nature, the different sizes and surfaces,” she says. “If properly looked after, natural materials only get more beautiful with age.”
A Timeless Experience
Hoshinoya Tokyo is more than just a hotel; it’s a destination where guests can immerse themselves in the timeless beauty and tranquility of traditional Japanese culture.
From the daily tea ceremonies held in the library, where guests can experience the ancient art of preparing and serving tea, to the captivating performances of ancient court music, Hoshinoya Tokyo offers a rare glimpse into the soul of Japan.
This is a place where the pace of life slows down, where guests can reconnect with themselves and discover the true meaning of serenity. Hoshinoya Tokyo invites you to experience a timeless tradition in the heart of a modern metropolis.
