Imagine a hotel that perfectly blends the trendy vibes of Tokyo’s creative scene with a commitment to sustainability. That’s Trunk Hotel, a haven for those seeking a stylish and eco-conscious getaway.
Located just a stone’s throw from the fashionable Cat Street, Trunk Hotel pulsates with an undeniable cool factor. Its heart is the bustling Trunk Bar, a magnet for local entrepreneurs and digital nomads. During the day, the bar buzzes with the clatter of keyboards and the aroma of freshly brewed coffee. As the sun sets, the atmosphere transforms into a lively cocktail lounge, where conversations flow as freely as the drinks.
Each room at Trunk Hotel boasts a unique character. From spacious, two-story suites with private plunge pools to cozy family rooms complete with bunk beds, there’s a perfect fit for every traveller. Yet, all rooms share a common thread: loft-like ceilings, stylish metro-tiled bathrooms, and mini-bars stocked with artisanal treats.
Sustainability is woven into the very fabric of Trunk Hotel. Reclaimed timber adorns the interiors, while staff uniforms are crafted from recycled denim. Even the amenities embody this ethos, featuring locally sourced, eco-friendly products like recycled-rubber slippers and upcycled laundry bags. Many of these items are available for purchase at the on-site convenience store, alongside craft beers and organic snacks.
Embrace Traditional Hospitality: Hanakohro, Tokyo
Step into a world of Japanese tradition at Hanakohro, a unique ryokan (traditional Japanese inn) nestled in the heart of Tokyo. Here, you can experience the timeless charm of paper walls, tatami floors, and spacious bathing suites – a delightful fusion of Japanese hospitality and urban chic.
Hanakohro’s concept is truly ingenious. The hotel cleverly transformed a few lower-floor rooms of an aging hotel into a haven of traditional Japanese design. Forget the stuffy, enclosed atmosphere of a typical ryokan – Hanakohro invites you to explore the vibrant city before retreating to your peaceful sanctuary.
As a guest of Hanakohro, you gain access to an exclusive network of executive lounges, found on each floor of the three towers. Each lounge is a haven of comfort, with coffee bars, snack carousels, and cozy seating nooks. And the best part? Hanakohro’s guests are treated to a sumptuous Japanese breakfast within the ryokan’s fourth lounge, followed by complimentary sake and umeshu in the evenings.
Affordable Luxury: Gate Hotel, Ginza
The Gate Hotel, a beacon of modern elegance in the vibrant Ginza district, offers a taste of luxury without breaking the bank. Rising above a bustling intersection, this glass tower boasts breathtaking views, reminiscent of the iconic film “Lost in Translation.”
The hotel’s highlight is the lively champagne bar, tucked away in the fourth-floor lobby-cum-lounge. Here, guests mingle with local businesspeople, enjoying a refreshing glass of bubbly after a day of exploring the city. Despite its seemingly understated presence, the front desk delivers impeccable service, rivaling that of any five-star hotel.
The rooms at Gate Hotel are spick and span, each featuring a brightly colored accent pillow to inject a touch of vibrancy into the otherwise muted, nightlife-inspired decor. Light sleepers may prefer to request rooms away from the train tracks, but the hotel’s double-glazed windows do an admirable job of filtering out the city’s hum.
Budget-Friendly Charm: Celestine Hotel, Shinjuku
Nestled in a charming neighborhood, Celestine Hotel offers budget-conscious travelers a taste of luxury without compromising on comfort. This hotel, a relic of a bygone era, retains a certain charm despite showing signs of age.
Guests are treated to a generous buffet breakfast and access to a spacious private lounge, stocked with an array of teas, snacks, and coffee table books. The rooms are arranged around a beautiful, open Italianate courtyard, allowing natural light to flood the corridors and creating a surprising sense of peace amidst the city’s chaos.
While the hotel’s furnishings may show some wear and tear, the budget-friendly price tag is unbeatable, especially considering the hotel’s solid foundation of upper-midrange amenities.
A Modern Take on Shared Living: Hotel Graphy, Shinjuku
Hotel Graphy is a unique blend of modern design and the shared living concept, offering an affordable and stylish alternative to traditional hotels. Before Airbnb revolutionized the way people travel, shared apartments provided a convenient and affordable solution for young professionals. Hotel Graphy takes inspiration from this era, offering short-term stays for travelers seeking a comfortable and budget-friendly base.
Each room features a private en suite bathroom and is styled with mid-century modern furniture, giving the rooms a cool and inviting feel. Hotel Graphy is perfect for those who want to cook a few meals themselves and experience a more local way of life without spending a fortune.
Neighbourhood-Centric Hospitality: OMO3, Asakusa
OMO3, a hotel in the vibrant Asakusa district, is a haven for travellers who want to immerse themselves in the local culture. It’s more than just a place to sleep; it’s a portal to the heart of the neighborhood.
The hotel’s design is simple and efficient, with slim rooms that prioritize functionality. But what OMO3 lacks in extravagant amenities, it makes up for in character. The small lobby doubles as a planning zone, where guests can lounge, browse a mural full of local recommendations, and even scan QR codes to learn more about the neighbourhood.
OMO hotels are graded from 1 to 9, with each property offering a different level of amenities. OMO3 falls on the no-frills end of the spectrum, but it still offers a comfortable and welcoming stay.
Quality Accommodation, Affordable Prices: Mitsui Garden Hotel Ginza-Gochome
Mitsui Garden Hotel Ginza-Gochome is a testament to the Japanese concept of “omotenashi,” which translates to “hospitality from the heart.” It’s a hotel that understands the art of providing quality accommodation at prices that don’t break the bank.
The hotel is strategically located in Ginza, Tokyo’s upscale shopping and entertainment district. Beyond its prime location, it boasts Edo-style baths, adding an element of traditional charm to the experience. The hotel’s minimalist design and subtle nods to Japanese culture create a sophisticated and welcoming atmosphere.
Mitsui Garden Hotel Ginza-Gochome caters specifically to tourists, who appreciate the hotel’s unique blend of comfort and affordability. While the standard rooms offer limited views, they are remarkably quiet, a welcome respite from the city’s hustle and bustle. For those seeking a little extra space and a touch of luxury, the Deluxe Twin rooms are the perfect choice. These rooms seamlessly fuse East and West aesthetics, with tatami sitting areas, low-slung beds, modern entertainment centers, and ultra-modern bathrooms.
