This city is a haven for eco-conscious travelers who want to experience Tokyo’s vibrant culture without compromising on comfort or style. These hotels showcase a unique blend of Japanese tradition and contemporary design, all while prioritizing sustainability.
Chic and Sustainable: Trunk Hotel
Nestled near the trendy Cat Street, Trunk Hotel is a magnet for Tokyo’s creative crowd and in-the-know city explorers. The Trunk Bar, a bustling hub, is where local entrepreneurs and digital nomads gather for work during the day and transition to cocktails as the sun sets. Each room is unique in size, ranging from a two-story party pad with a plunge pool to a cozy family suite with bunk beds. However, all rooms share a common thread: lofty ceilings, metro-tiled bathrooms, and minibars stocked with artisanal soda pops and dried fruits.
Sustainability is the heart of this hotel. Reclaimed timber decorates the interiors, while staff uniforms are crafted from recycled denim. Even the amenities follow this eco-conscious approach, boasting locally produced, recycled-rubber bathroom slippers and upcycled laundry bags. These eco-friendly items, along with craft beers from Tokyo and organic snacks, are available for purchase at the on-site convenience store.
A Traditional Retreat: Hanakohro
This ryokan (traditional Japanese inn) offers a captivating twist on hospitality. Nestled in the heart of the city, it combines the charm of a traditional inn with the conveniences of a modern hotel. The paper walls, tatami floors, and oversized bathing suites transport you to a bygone era.
This ryokan ingeniously reimagines a few low-floor rooms of an aging hotel, transforming them into a traditional Japanese retreat – a concept usually found in quaint rural villages. Staying in one of the 16 Hanakohro rooms grants you unfettered access to the hotel’s collection of executive lounges, each offering coffee bars, snack carousels, and private seating nooks. The ryokan also features its own lounge where guests can enjoy an oversized Japanese breakfast and sample complimentary sake and umeshu in the evenings.
Luxury on a Budget: Gate Hotel
This budget-friendly hotel is deceptively luxurious, offering stunning views of Ginza from its glass tower. Stepping off the elevator, you’ll be greeted by a lively champagne bar on the fourth floor, where hotel guests and local business folk mingle over an after-work drink. Although the front desk may seem like an afterthought, it offers polished and capable service comparable to the city’s five-star hotels.
Rooms feature brightly colored accent pillows that liven up the nightlife-inspired decor. While light sleepers may prefer rooms away from the train tracks, the double-glazed windows effectively block out noise. The Gate Hotel offers a luxury experience at a budget-friendly price.
A Budget-Friendly Haven: The Celestine
This hotel embraces a classic midrange approach while offering affordable prices and excellent amenities for budget travellers. The Celestine boasts a massive buffet breakfast and a sweeping private lounge filled with tea, snacks, and coffee table books.
Rooms surround an open Italianate courtyard, providing natural light in the hallways. The hotel uses piped-in birdsong, creating a surprisingly tranquil atmosphere in the bustling city. Despite its age, the hotel offers an unbeatable price point, with a solid foundation and impressive amenities.
A Modern Take on Shared Living: Hotel Graphy
Inspired by the shared apartment concept popular among young professionals, Hotel Graphy offers short-stay accommodation for travelers seeking a comfortable and affordable place to crash and cook meals. The private en-suite rooms are stylishly decorated with mid-century furniture, offering a unique and modern feel.
This hotel caters to international and domestic travellers who desire a more independent and budget-conscious experience while still enjoying modern amenities.
Neighborhood Exploration: OMO3
This hotel may have the structure of a business hotel with slim, efficient rooms, but it delivers a warm and inviting atmosphere with thoughtful touches like designer bath products, adorable pillows, and subtle design flourishes.
The small lobby acts as a planning zone where guests can relax and browse a mural filled with neighborhood recommendations. The OMO3, while offering a no-frills experience, prioritizes comfort and provides a great base for exploring the surrounding area.
A Japanese Hospitality Gem: Mitsui Garden Hotels
This renowned hotel chain offers quality accommodation at budget-friendly prices while maintaining a high standard of service. The Ginza-Gochome property stands out with its prime location and Edo-style baths.
While the furniture is neutral in style, subtle nods to Japanese tradition create a distinct sense of place. Mitsui Gardens boasts smart design and excellent service, reflecting its experience in partnering with luxury brands like Aman and Halekulani.
While standard rooms have limited views, they offer tranquility in a busy neighbourhood. The Deluxe Twin room provides a harmonious blend of East and West design, featuring a quaint tatami sitting area, low-slung beds, a modern entertainment centre, and ultra-modern bathrooms.
These unique hotels offer a distinct and memorable experience for eco-conscious travellers seeking a stylish and sustainable stay in Tokyo. Whether you prefer a traditional Japanese retreat, a modern urban oasis, or a budget-friendly haven, these hotels provide a perfect blend of comfort, style, and environmental responsibility.
