"Why book? This is—full stop—a party hotel. Without a lick of Japanese-ness about it, the EDITION seeks to unfurl its world famous coolness, like Rapunzel’s braided hair, down onto the streets of Tokyo from high atop its skyscraper with a bevy of sociable public spaces and minimalist crash pads lofted on top. Set the scene Nose rings instead of pearl necklaces, DJ-ed beats instead of classic piano, laminate floors instead of marble countertops, sweatpants instead of suits — it’s a new kind of luxury, fueled by the nascent boom of millennials with money. The backstory Out of nowhere, it seems as though hotelier Ian Schrager has minted a reverse Soho House of sorts, where everyone’s welcome to come hang. The EDITION brand has found its way into a variety of international cities as diverse as Reykjavik and Tampa, lending the Marriott portfolio a certain club appeal, where guests and locals swirl together. Rooms There’s something comforting about turning the doorknob to find a bit of familiarity in a foreign place—the rooms all come with the requisite mother-of-pearl paint swatch, a fluffy blanket accessory, some blonde wood, and a compelling light fixture: you know your home in an EDITION as soon as you walk in. Although the hotel has been open for two years (and in fully revved operation mode for one) the walls and carpets definitely have some scuffs—an occupational hazard when everything’s white—but the balcony suites, full of dappled foliage, are one of a kind. Food & drink The rooms—Jade, Blue and Gold—house the property’s food and beverage program, which seeks to bring in not only guests of the hotel, but locals and other tourists alike. The Gold Room, where guests are ensconced in pleather, is located on the ground floor of the hotel tower—easily accessible to outsiders who come for late-night libations. It’s a scene. All-day dining and breakfast is served in the Blue Room, but we’re most excited about the newly opened Jade Room where a team of Michelin men design playful multi-course meals that blend Japanese ingredients with European haute cuisine. Don’t miss the “discovery” wine pairing where you can some of the finest Japanese wines and sakes instead of predictable European and American favorites. Spa Unlike Tokyo’s other luxury hotels, the pool area here is in the heart of the property, where the usual floor-to-ceiling windows are swapped for tiled walls and disco lights. It’s a party, Vegas style, all day and evening where you don’t quite know what time it is outside, but you definitely don’t care. Neighborhood Although the property is poised to be a beacon of sociability, the surrounding neighborhood is rather staid—but big redevelopment plans are underway to further shift the vibe of Toranomon with the ultimate goal being the next Omotesando (think: western Tokyo’s Rodeo Drive). Service The casual attitude works nicely with the sociable atmosphere; since the property leans global instead of Japanese, we’re hoping for a little more English ability in the future considering the clientele. Anything left to mention? We’re dying to see the sister property, the Tokyo Ginza EDITION, swing open its doors sometime in 2023. Built in tandem, they’re meant to compliment one another while offering distinctly different points of view on the EDITION global brand. Rumor has it the Ginza version—Tokyo 2.0—will be less party prone, and bathed in darker wood to contrast the light, bright aesthetic here. Can’t wait." - Brandon Presser
