Sleek and sophisticated, a stay at the Shangri-La Hotel, Tokyo, is perfect for the traveller who mixes work with play
Whenever I'm in Tokyo, I always stay in the Shibuya or Shinjuku area out of habit. But ever since my last stay in Andaz Tokyo at Toronomon Hills, I've been making an effort to try out different neighbourhoods instead.
Located conveniently right next to Tokyo Station and occupying the uppermost 11 floors of the Marunouchi Trust Tower Main Building, Shangri-La Hotel, Tokyo, is the perfect for exploring the surrounding Imperial Garden and the historic Nihonbashi area. Plus, Tokyo Station also happens to be the terminus of the Shinkansen bullet train, so you can can use it as a base to plan a multi-city itinerary with ease.
If you're arriving via the metro, book a free Meet and Greet service, so staff may receive you the moment you disembark from the train, instead of having to navigate the crowded (and potentially confusing) Tokyo Station on your own.
The moment you step into the lift lobby on the first floor, you're whisked away, all-smiles, to the swanky lobby on the 28th level. If you've booked a Horizon Club Deluxe room, check-in is at the Horizon Club Lounge instead, and the process is seamlessly done with an offer of scones and afternoon tea.
I stayed in the lovely Horizon Club Deluxe Imperial Garden View Room, and that meant gorgeous views of the city, and of course, a glimpse of the Imperial Palace, as well.
In many ways, luxury is all about the tiniest details and nothing seems ever out of place here at the Shangri-La Hotel, Tokyo, as staff work to make sure you're at your most comfortable. Case in point? Things like a hypoallergenic pillow menu, Bvlgari bath amenities and shoeshine service all made the experience a thoroughly seamless one.
For a little rest and relax, Chi The Spa is located on the 29th floor. Six spa suites, all dressed in the same calming, moody wood tones invite you in for an afternoon of pampering. Look out for the treatments that incorporate traditional Japanese elements, like the use of yuzu, sake and even gold flakes.
If you'd like to work out while on holiday, the well-appointed gym and swimming pool overlooking the city will definitely inspire you to clock in those strokes or miles.
A must-visit at the hotel is Japanese restaurant Nadaman, which serves traditional cuisine with a modern spin. A stalwart in the Tokyo fine dining scene—it has been around since 1830—the establishment is known for their sushi, teppanyaki and kaseiki courses.
Head chef Takehiko Yoshida is particularly creative with his seasonal menu, and some of his inspired dishes include foie gras egg custard with truffle sauce as well as Kano eggplant wrapped in Wagyu beef.
Exclusively reserved for Horizon Club or suite guests, the Horizon Club Lounge on the 37th floor is a great place to nip in for a bite or a tipple. Open all day, they serve breakfast here, as well as afternoon tea and cocktails in the evening.
Perched on the 37th level, it also offers amazing views of the nearby skyscapers, and if you're lucky, a peek at the beautiful Mount Fuji.
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