We’re seasoned travelers, usually opting for apartments over hotels. But Tokyo was different – it was vacation time! We craved a break from cooking, cleaning, and grocery shopping. The Gate Hotel Asakusa reminded us of the pure joy of a luxurious hotel stay.
A Perfect Location for History and Exploration
We chose the Gate Hotel because we wanted to immerse ourselves in the history of Asakusa. This charming neighborhood, located in northern Tokyo, is ideal for anyone arriving at Narita Airport, especially after a long flight. After 20 hours of travel, the last thing we wanted was to navigate Tokyo’s complex metro system.
Asakusa, along with nearby Ueno, boasts some of Tokyo’s most captivating tourist attractions, making it the perfect base for exploring. And if you’re looking for a day trip, the temples and shrines of Nikko are easily accessible from this location.
Hotel Perks that Made Our Stay Special
Our room was a delight. We loved the modern coffee machine, a true treat in a hotel room. While some crave cable TV or free Wi-Fi (both of which the Gate Hotel offers), we’re all about a good coffee machine. We also appreciated the windows that opened, allowing fresh air into the room. This is a rare find in hotels, where recycled air can be a bit stuffy.
One unusual feature of the Gate Hotel is its 24-hour restaurant. This is surprising for a smaller hotel (with only 136 rooms) and you might think it wouldn’t be necessary. But after a long journey, we were thrilled to be able to order a gourmet meal at 11 pm, even after a long flight. We indulged in this luxury and enjoyed a delicious meal late at night.
Stunning Views and Delicious Breakfasts
The next morning, we woke up to breathtaking views of Tokyo. We knew the hotel’s location was good, but we didn’t expect to be looking directly at Sensoji Temple, one of Tokyo’s most famous landmarks. The Tokyo Skytree, the tallest tower in the world, is also just a short walk away.
Breakfast at the Gate Hotel was a highlight. While a buffet is available, you can also choose from various menu options. For four days, I couldn’t resist the eggs benedict, while Lissette enjoyed scrambled eggs and, on one occasion, the pancakes. And of course, we couldn’t resist going back to the buffet for croissants, pasta, and other delicious treats.
A Relaxing Rooftop Escape
The hotel’s 14th-floor terrace and bar are exclusively for guests, offering a peaceful retreat after a day of sightseeing. We were lucky to have good weather during our stay, and we enjoyed relaxing with a drink while admiring the city views.
A Hotel with Unique Design Touches
The Gate Hotel is a design hotel, and you can see it everywhere. The hotel’s attention to detail sets it apart from larger hotels. The individual paintings in the rooms and common areas are unique, and the egg-shaped lights, which we nicknamed “Ostrich eggs”, add a whimsical touch. Even the varying color motifs on different floors and the beautiful light fixture in the lobby, resembling a lighthouse, add a touch of charm.
Minor Quirks and an Unwavering Recommendation
The only minor issue we encountered was the subdued lighting in the room, which made it challenging to find things at night. But hey, sometimes a little dim lighting can be romantic, right?
Overall, we wholeheartedly recommend the Gate Hotel Asakusa. The location was fantastic, and the hotel offered extra touches and amenities that made our stay unforgettable. Don’t just take our word for it – check out their TripAdvisor reviews.
Important Note: If you plan to visit on a weekend, book your stay in advance. The hotel is very popular with Japanese tourists seeking a weekend getaway.
Discover More of Tokyo:
- How to see Tokyo with a Free Volunteer Guide
- Asakusa and Ueno – the best part of Tokyo
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