If there’s a destination on the must-visit list this year, it has to be Japan. We actually never even realized how essential Japan was until it was closed to visitors essentially for three years. Seriously, you don’t know what you have until it’s gone. But the good news is that you can get your version of the Lost in Translation experience in Tokyo, and it’s now better than ever. We only found out that could happen when a slew of new spots, from the Bulgari to the Edition, came on the scene.
Bulgari Hotel Tokyo
Neighborhood: Yaesu
One of the newest luxury hotels to join the pack in Tokyo, this hidden gem can be found on the 40th to 45th floors of the Midtown Yaesu skyscraper. You might expect something over the top with all the diamonds and jewels associated with the Bulgari name. Quite the contrary though – the hotel is done tastefully with signature silvers and elegant orange throughout. Japanese fusion elevates the space, from hieroglyphics to wood accents and a sushi bar. Speaking of food, there’s sushi by renowned Michelin star Chef Kenji Gyoten, or the classic Bulgari Niko Romito, which always delivers consistently good Italian. No matter what you do though during your visit to the Bulgari, you’ll want to spend some quality time out on the garden terrace or the 82 ft pool ensconced in emerald green. You know, like the jewels that Bulgari is known for.
Janu Tokyo
Neighborhood: Azabudi Hills
Just this month, Janu Tokyo opened its doors to the public. Janu is an Aman Resorts’ sibling but with a social vibe. You’ll get all the luxuries and exceptional service, but with opportunities to connect with the other guests rather than Aman’s traditionally intimate feel. So, it’s no surprise that Janu is one of the most talked about openings in Tokyo, among stiff competition. Some of Janu’s distinctive virtues include a 25m swimming pool, a 4,000 sqm wellness center, and eight eateries. What’s really enticing is that it’s the first-ever hotel in Azabudi Hills, a development much like its own city within Tokyo. Azabudi Hills has galleries galore, 24,000 sqm of green zones, and luxury shopping. Lucky for us, Janu Tokyo is in the center of it all.
Aman Tokyo
Neighborhood: Otemachi
It’s all about that skyline when you’re vacationing in a populated city, and Aman has the windows for the view. Choose between a suite or a signature suite with the traditionally inspired rooms. The vibe is serene, pulling inspiration from elements like granite, washi paper, and wood. The simplistic palette only lends itself to the beauty of the city center down below. Aman can do no wrong in the wellness department, and they’ve proved it again with their Japanese-style baths and practices. Take in all of Tokyo from its largest hotel spa.
Mandarin Oriental, Tokyo
Neighborhood: Nihonbashi
The Mandarin Oriental is hard to beat, some might even say it’s a milestone property for luxury options in Tokyo. The Tokyo location is the definition of hospitality at its finest. With 12 bars and restaurants, one being Michelin-starred, and a spa list that can go on for pages, it is a deeply customizable experience. The hotel was awarded a five-star rating in the Forbes Travel Guide 2024, so even 19 years later, it’s relevant and doing it right. The hotel is best known for its design and genuine service. The architecture, while displaying hypermodernism, focuses on water and wood as its core features. This hotel is a must-visit for an iconically luxurious stay and also for that renowned Mandarin Oriental service.
The Tokyo EDITION, Toranomon
Neighborhood: Ginza District
Another newer hotel, around for only three years, the Tokyo EDITION Hotel, feels young and fresh. With light wood, bright, airy spaces, and pops of jeweled tones, this space draws in a younger crowd. Unlike the rest of the list, this hotel won’t get you in trouble with your corporate travel budget either. That said, compromises aren’t made on luxury. The Editions’s signature sweeping staircase, revered chefs, and rare private terraces overlooking city landmarks make it special. You can enjoy a signature cocktail amongst the plentiful greenery with an insanely close view of the Tokyo Tower.
Park Hyatt
Neighborhood: Shinjuku
Who wouldn’t want to pretend to be a movie star for the night? Tokyo’s Park Hyatt is the place to do it; after all, Lost in Translation was filmed at this very spot. The hotel has a quiet, old-money, luxury feel. Curated libraries, artworks, and marble bathrooms are just a few noteworthy details. We’d say their long list of dining and lounge options is what makes it stand out. You can enjoy world-class Japanese at Kozue or a 360-degree view (Mount Fuji included) at the New York Grill & Bar. Other options include Girandole, featuring French cuisine, a delicatessen, and a pastry boutique for the foodie in Tokyo. And, of course, we can’t forget your Scarlett Johansson moment – visit the iconic New York Bar for live jazz and premium brandy.
HOSHINOYA Tokyo
Neighborhood: Otemachi
The most traditional of the lot, Hoshinoya, Tokyo, puts a modern spin on ryokan hospitality. Despite its location, the intimate, hushed atmosphere is perfect for travelers wanting authenticity and privacy. Each floor has six rooms, with a conjoint lounge area. The floors are tatami padded, and taking off your shoes is encouraged. There is a restaurant serving up French, and Japanese cuisine. However, meal boxes are brought to your room to enjoy in solitude. Lattice designs cover the windows, projecting patterns along the interior. You can experience complimentary Japanese traditions like tea ceremonies and Kenjutsu swordwork classes. Bathe in the rooftop Onsen connected to hot springs deep below the soaring building. It’s no surprise that Reluctant Traveler Eugene Levy stayed here for one of the most unique luxury stays Tokyo has to offer.
The Lively Tokyo Azabujuban
Neighborhood: Azabu- Juban
The Lively is in the center of the well-known Tokyo food district – Azabu-Juban. The neighborhood is a wealthy area with lowkey vibes for a quieter stay. That said, The Lively stays true to its name with a youthful, fun, and quirky energy. The avant-garde space is high-tech, with mobile text service, QR code payments, movie theater rooms, and Smart toilets. The playfulness is all in the design, with folding desks, hidden seating, lofts with slides, and vanities doubling as TVs. This boutique hotel has thought of everything, and we mean everything. There are over 100 amenities, from board games to pizza cutters, all a text away. The space encourages communal living with seating set up for socializing. For instance, the community table at the Okadamae restaurant that happens to serve rare Kuroge Wagyu Beef. The perfect blend of elegance and whimsy.
