Tokyo, a city brimming with energy and innovation, is about to outdo itself in 2024. From luxurious boutique hotels to sprawling skyscrapers offering breathtaking views, Tokyo is preparing to welcome visitors with open arms and a plethora of new experiences.
A New Wave of Luxury
Trunk Hotel, a stunning fusion of Danish and Japanese aesthetics, opened its doors in September, offering a tranquil retreat in the heart of the city. Neutral colors create a soothing ambiance, while the hotel’s most unique feature, a panoramic pool overlooking Yoyogi Park, is sure to capture imaginations.
The Palace Hotel Tokyo, a Tokyo icon, continues to redefine luxury by constantly evolving. Its most dramatic transformation took place in 2012 when the original hotel was demolished and replaced with a modern masterpiece. Perched overlooking the Imperial Palace, the hotel recently added six “premier” suites to its already impressive list of accommodations.
Bulgari Hotel Tokyo, a testament to the fusion of Italian and Japanese design sensibilities, opened its doors this past spring. The hotel’s 98 rooms and suites, spread across six floors of a high-rise, boast breathtaking views of the Imperial Palace and the Tokyo skyline. Guests can indulge in the hotel’s exquisite Italian restaurant, sushi restaurant, and Bulgari Spa.
Janu Tokyo, located in the residential Azabudai district, near the Tokyo Tower and the embassy district, is set to open its doors this winter. With 122 guest rooms, wellness facilities, and various dining options, this hotel promises a tranquil escape for those seeking a unique experience.
Tokyo Edition: A New Chapter in the City’s Glamour
Tokyo EDITION, Ginza, a brand first introduced in 2020, is set to open later this year. Located near Chuo Street, a hub of upscale shopping and entertainment, the hotel boasts 86 guest rooms and suites, three restaurants, a rooftop bar, and a fitness center.
Tokyu Hotels, a familiar name in Japan, unveiled the Tokyu Kabukicho Tower in May 2023, in Shinjuku, Tokyo’s lively entertainment district. The tower houses two hotels: Hotel Groove Shinjuku, a lifestyle hotel, and Bellustar Tokyo, an upscale Pan Pacific hotel located on the top floors. Bellustar Tokyo’s Sky Private Villa, featuring a three-level restaurant offering panoramic views and a spa, is sure to be a popular destination.
Escape to Nikko: A Day and Night Away from Tokyo
For those seeking a tranquil escape from the bustling city, Nikko, a two-hour journey north of Tokyo along the Tobu Nikko Line, offers a perfect retreat. Known for its breathtaking natural scenery and rich traditional Japanese culture, Nikko is a haven for those seeking a respite from city life.
Autumn, with its stunning foliage, is a particularly enchanting time to visit. The vibrant colors, special lightings in the flower gardens, and the cool autumn breeze create a magical atmosphere. Summer, offering a welcome escape from the heat and humidity of Tokyo, is another popular time to explore Nikko’s charms. And like the rest of Japan, spring brings a gentle beauty that captivates all who witness it.
A Journey Through History and Culture
During the Nara period (710-794), Nikko’s natural beauty captivated the hearts of the people, inspiring them to build temples, shrines, and Buddhist statues. Skilled craftsmen settled in the area, further enhancing the beauty of the region by creating more temples and shrines. Futarasan Shrine, Toshogu Shrine, and Rinnoji Temple, along with their monumental ruins, were declared UNESCO World Heritage Sites in 1999, as the “Shrines and Temples in Nikko.”
Toshogu Shrine is renowned for its intricate decorative beauty, a testament to the exceptional skills of the area’s craftsmen. Nikko’s climate, proximity to Tokyo, and natural beauty attracted Westerners, leading diplomats from the United Kingdom, France, and Italy to build villas in the region to escape the summer heat in Tokyo. Some of these buildings and sites are now open to the public, offering a glimpse into the rich history of Nikko.
Nikko Kanaya Hotel: A Legacy of Hospitality
Tobu Railways, a major player in the Japanese real estate industry, owns properties in both Tokyo’s Shitamachi (downtown) area and Nikko, including hotels, attractions, and retail shops.
One of Tobu Railways‘ most prized possessions is the Nikko Kanaya Hotel, a 150-year-old landmark that recently completed renovations of its Annex Royal House. The Nikko Kanaya Hotel, which began as Japan’s first Western-style resort hotel, opened its doors in 1873. The recently renovated Annex Royal House, complete with 22 new rooms, including Deluxe Rooms, suites, and corner rooms, is ready to welcome guests with its timeless charm and modern comforts.
The Nikko Kanaya Hotel, with its rich history and central location, is the perfect base for exploring the wonders of Nikko. It has welcomed countless dignitaries and celebrities, including Helen Keller, Albert Einstein, and President Eisenhower. The hotel, a testament to the harmonious blend of Japanese and Western cultures, is registered as one of Japan’s Tangible Cultural Properties.
Tobu Railways’ Nikko All Area Pass, valid for 1-4 days, provides round-trip transportation between Tokyo’s Tobu Asakusa Station and Nikko, as well as transportation within Nikko and access to numerous attractions. This convenient pass is ideal for guests staying at the Nikko Kanaya Hotel, allowing them to fully immerse themselves in the beauty and history of the region.
Whether you’re seeking a luxurious escape in Tokyo or a tranquil retreat in the countryside, Nikko and Tokyo offer an array of experiences that are sure to captivate and enchant visitors. With its diverse offerings, Tokyo is ready to welcome the world in 2024, promising a vibrant year filled with exciting new discoveries.
