The Strings by InterContinental, Tokyo
"Why did this hotel catch your attention? What's the vibe? A short elevator ride takes guests up from the hustle of Shinagawa Station—one of Tokyo's busiest—and into the vaulted lobby of The Strings. It always feels like 5 o'clock here; a capacious bar pulls in travelers and locals alike. The room is open to the below, atrium style; the design may feel a little retro, but it works. What's the backstory? Part of Intercontinental, The Strings proffers its own identity with a light musical theme. Tell us all about the accommodations. Any tips on what to book? Aided by large picture windows overlooking Tokyo Bay, Tokyo Tower, and Shinagawa Station, the standard rooms do an admirable job of efficiently using their space. Light sleepers should skip the Shinagawa view—trains regularly trundle some 30 floors down, and despite the double-glazed windows, there's still some light clacking. From other angles, the lofted rooms are perfect nooks for watching the twinkling city lights. Is there a charge for Wi-Fi? The wifi is free and fast. Drinking and dining—what are we looking at? Two words when it comes to breakfast: Club Lounge, which offers three set menus (Japanese, Western, or Low-Cal) and a panoply of a la carte mains and snacks. Otherwise, the onsite restaurants cater to Western and Asian palates, although the undeniable winner is Kazane, the on-site teppanyaki restaurant where resident chefs work their magic behind a massive griddle. And the service? One click shy of ultra-luxury, the hotel does an admirable job of not being over-doting and allowing space for privacy. But when service is needed, an international and Japanese staff drops everything. What type of travelers will you find here? The Strings does a roaring wedding trade, catering to dozens of posh Japanese couples each weekend who snap portrait photos in the sprawling, perfectly lit lobby. What about the neighborhood? Does the hotel fit in, make itself part of the scene? f you've purchased a JR Rail Pass and are poised to take day trips from Tokyo, this hotel—practically perched atop one of the country's most important bullet train hubs—is perfectly placed. The area around the hotel isn't much of a neighborhood, but you're 15 minutes from Shibuya and Omotesando one way and 15 minutes from Ginza in the other. Is there anything you'd change? While the bathrooms have all the modern conveniences—hello, robot toilet—they could use a teeny refresh to match the harmonious aesthetics of the bedrooms. Any other hotel features worth noting? Check out the property's sampling of uniquely prepared teas, available for free in the minibar. Bottom line: Worth it? Why? It has great value and a convenient location." - Brandon Presser
