Imagine this: You’re in the heart of Tokyo, a city brimming with energy and life. But you’re craving a haven, a place to escape the chaos and find some peace. Hotel New Otani Tokyo, a five-star landmark standing for six decades, offers exactly that. This isn’t just a hotel; it’s a tranquil oasis in the heart of the metropolis.
A City Within a City
Think of it as a city within a city. While just a short metro ride from iconic spots like the Imperial Palace, Shinjuku, and Shibuya, the hotel feels like a world apart. The secret lies in its enchanting setting next to a 400-year-old Japanese garden. This lush oasis offers respite from the city’s relentless pace.
The hotel itself is a bustling hub, boasting 37 restaurants, over 50 shops, a post office, and even a clinic. Whether you crave a day of pampering at the spa or an evening gazing at the sunset from the 17th-floor restaurant, you’ll find plenty to keep you entertained within the hotel complex.
A Journey Back in Time
Hotel New Otani Tokyo’s story goes back to the 1964 Summer Olympics. The hotel was built to address a shortage of accommodations for the sporting event. A mere 17 months later, the hotel was completed and became Tokyo’s tallest building.
This historical gem holds a special place in movie buffs’ hearts, having served as the headquarters of Osato Chemicals in the classic James Bond film, “You Only Live Twice”. The iconic revolving restaurant on the top floor further solidified its place in Tokyo’s cultural landscape.
A Garden of Serenity
The hotel was built on the former residence of samurai lord Katō Kiyomasa, which later served as the Fushimi-no-miya family residence. Today, only the gardens remain, a serene sanctuary boasting over 100 cherry blossom trees with 20 different varieties of sakura. The gardens are a breathtaking sight, especially during peak bloom.
Though we missed the cherry blossom season, we still enjoyed the tranquil beauty of the gardens. Guests can embark on garden tours and lantern tours throughout their stay. In autumn, the gardens transform into a canvas of deep red hues, and a separate rose garden blooms in May and October.
Executive House Zen: A Sanctuary of Luxury
For our stay, we chose the Executive House Zen and were treated to a HINOKI Suite with unparalleled views and exceptional service.
Upon arrival, we were greeted by the sleek and modern Zen Lounge on the 11th floor. Floor-to-ceiling windows offer breathtaking panoramas of Akasaka Palace, the Shibuya skyline, and, on clear days, the majestic Mount Fuji. The lounge exudes a sense of calm with its charcoal and grey hues, punctuated by delicate ink drawings reminiscent of traditional calligraphy.
Executive Zen guests can enjoy various food offerings throughout the day, from breakfast to evening hors d’oeuvres, all served in a serene atmosphere that emphasizes the Zen philosophy.
Our room was ready before the official check-in time, a delightful surprise. Executive House Zen offers 84 rooms and suites across the eleventh and twelfth floors, each boasting stunning views. The rooms themselves are a blend of modern comfort and traditional Japanese design, with bamboo poles at the entrance and shoji screens covering the windows.
A Haven of Pampering
The HINOKI Suite is a sanctuary of luxury. The living room is elegant and spacious, featuring a chaise lounge, a dining table for two, and a walk-in closet. The bedroom boasts two twin beds pushed together to form a king-size bed and an en-suite bathroom with his-and-hers sinks.
But the real highlight is the hinoki bathtub, crafted from fragrant cypress wood. The inclusion of a bottle of sake elevates the experience, allowing you to indulge in a traditional sake bath known for its skin-softening properties. In-room therapy treatments are available daily, adding another layer of pampering.
The room is designed with your comfort in mind, anticipating your every need. Weather forecasts, umbrellas, skincare sets, PJs, and even mobile phone chargers are readily available. You can even request your preferred type of pillow, whether it’s tempur or buckwheat hull.
A Culinary Journey
The hotel offers an unparalleled dining experience, with 37 restaurants scattered across the sprawling complex. For breakfast, we recommend the Garden Lounge, offering stunning views of the Japanese garden, or the Tower Restaurant on the 40th floor of the Garden Tower. For a traditional Japanese breakfast, try Kioi Nadaman, or order from room service.
From shabu-shabu to noodles, sushi, and teppanyaki, the hotel’s Japanese restaurants cater to every culinary desire. Notable options include Tour d’Argent Tokyo, the second and only branch outside of Paris, and Sekishin-tei, a teppanyaki restaurant serving Kobe beef and other exclusive delicacies.
Zen at Every Corner
A sense of zen permeates the entire property, offering a welcome respite from the frenetic energy of the city. While the Japanese garden is best enjoyed during cherry blossom season, you’ll find tranquility in every corner throughout the year.
Over the years, Hotel New Otani Tokyo has hosted dignitaries like Bill Clinton, Tony Blair, Stephen Harper, and Theresa May. And now, we’re proud to join this list, having experienced the unparalleled luxury and tranquility that this iconic hotel offers.
Whether you’re seeking a retreat from the city’s hustle or a luxurious base to explore Tokyo’s vibrant attractions, Hotel New Otani Tokyo is a destination worthy of your time. Escape the chaos and discover your inner zen in this tranquil haven.
