Get ready to escape the hustle and bustle of Tokyo and delve into serene havens of Japanese culture. My blog has seen a remarkable surge in international visitors since 2024, reaching an unprecedented 3 million in March alone! This incredible growth is thanks to Japan’s captivating cherry blossoms and the ever-weakening yen, making Japan a dream destination for many. Every day, I encounter a multitude of tourists on trains and city streets, and I’m thrilled to share my favorite hidden gems with you!
Hotel Chinzanso Tokyo: A Symphony of Serenity
Nestled in a tranquil residential area, Hotel Chinzanso Tokyo offers a welcome respite from Tokyo’s frenetic pace. Its sprawling Japanese garden is a personal sanctuary I love to visit whenever I’m seeking serenity. The meticulously maintained paths wind through lush greenery, offering a tranquil escape from the city’s buzz.
A red bridge gracefully spans a shimmering pond, and cascading waterfalls create a soothing melody. A magnificent three-tiered wooden pagoda, designated as a nationally recognized cultural property, adds an authentic touch of Japanese heritage. This enchanting garden provides a glimpse into traditional Japanese ambiance without the tourist crowds.
The garden comes alive with seasonal events, adding a touch of magic to every visit. Witness fireflies dancing around the pond during the warm summer months of May and June, or enjoy a captivating “sea of clouds” display twice hourly throughout the year. While an artificial performance, it adds a dramatic touch to the garden’s serene atmosphere.
Exclusive access to the garden is reserved for hotel guests and patrons of the restaurants and cafés. The Japanese restaurants within the garden, offering exquisite cuisine amidst nature, are a tempting treat, though I haven’t had the pleasure of dining there yet. I, however, adore spending leisurely hours in the cafés, savoring coffee, sweets, or delightful afternoon tea sets with breathtaking garden views. (Remember to check for restaurant/café reservations before your visit!)
Hotel Gajoen Tokyo: A Time Capsule of Artistic Elegance
Just a short stroll from JR/Tokyo Metro Meguro Station, Hotel Gajoen Tokyo is renowned for its adjacent art space, “Hyakudan Kaidan -The Hundred Stairs-,” designated as a cultural property of Tokyo in 2009. This unique space is housed in the Meguro Gajoen Building #3, the predecessor to the current hotel, built in 1935. It’s the only remaining wooden structure on the hotel grounds, showcasing a long hallway with 99 steps connecting seven rooms.
These rooms, once used for meals and lively gatherings, are connected by exquisitely designed staircases adorned with stunning artwork by renowned painters of the era. Throughout the year, “Hyakudan Kaidan” hosts a diverse array of special exhibitions, like the enchanting Hina-Doll exhibition featuring dolls from across Japan, which I enjoyed during my March visit.
Even without a special exhibition, the architectural beauty of the rooms is worth experiencing. It’s a step back in time, offering a glimpse into Japan’s rich cultural heritage.
Indulge in Comfort and Charm at Hotel Gajoen Tokyo
The hotel’s restaurants and lounges offer a haven of relaxation. I particularly enjoy the “Pandora” lounge café with its open layout and inviting seating. Sometimes, the café features live piano performances. Since the hotel is a popular wedding venue, you might spot charming Japanese couples in traditional attire, capturing memories by the pond in front of the café on weekends.
But one highlight you absolutely cannot miss is the restroom just behind the lounge café. I know it sounds unusual, but trust me, it’s incredibly luxurious and hard to believe it’s simply a restroom. Even if there’s a line, I highly recommend seeing it for yourself. Once you’ve experienced this extraordinary space, you’ll understand why I recommend it.
*Hina-Doll: These exquisite dolls are displayed as a symbol of parents’ prayers to protect their children, especially daughters, from harm and illness and to help them build happy families. We continue the tradition of celebrating our daughters’ health and happiness on March 3rd with family and friends. Previously, a seven-tier decoration was common, but nowadays, the decoration style has adapted to fit smaller living spaces with two or three-tier decorations becoming more popular. Additionally, the appearance of the dolls and the style of decoration vary from region to region in Japan. (For the celebration custom for boys, please refer to Family Reunion on Children’s Day.)
Happo-En: A Journey Through History and Nature
Located near Shirokane-Takanawa Station of Tokyo Metro, Happo-En stands as a testament to Japanese history and natural beauty. Its historical buildings from the Edo era and a stunning traditional Japanese garden transport visitors to another era.
The meticulously maintained strolling garden is Tokyo’s premier destination for experiencing the changing seasons. Admire centuries-old bonsai trees, vibrant koi ponds, blooming cherry blossom trees, and vibrant autumn foliage. Enjoy authentic Japanese green tea and sweets at the “Muan” tea house on Thursdays to Sundays without reservations. (Advanced booking is required for the green tea ceremony, held twice a week.)
The hotel also boasts three exquisite restaurants, one of which, Enju, I visited with my husband years ago. I still cherish the memory of the exceptional cuisine and the staff’s warm hospitality. The restaurant offers counter seating with a large glass window overlooking the garden, creating an unforgettable dining experience. I yearn to revisit during cherry blossom season, but securing a reservation for the counter seats is highly competitive.
FYI, the hotel will be closed for 6 months between March and August 2025 due to full renovation for its transformation into an “Exchange Culture Creation Space”.
A Serene Escape Awaits
I hope this glimpse into my favorite Tokyo havens inspires you to experience the magic of traditional Japanese culture and tranquility. Whether you’re seeking a respite from the city’s buzz, a unique cultural experience, or a delightful place to savor a delicious meal, these hidden gems will surely delight you!
(Reference Information: About Happo-En, Japanese Cultural Experience, Restaurants, Access)
This article highlights several hotels in Tokyo that offer a tranquil escape from the bustling city. They are all great options for those who want to experience Japanese culture and beauty in a peaceful setting.
