Tokyo Station Hotel
"How did it strike you on arrival?From the outside, you might wonder how you ended up in Europe. Dating back to 1915, the architecture is something of a relic, considering that many of Tokyo's landmark buildings—save the station itself—were destroyed in a 1923 earthquake. It's a snapshot of a short-lived period when Tokyo's pre-war architecture leaned Western and Edwardian. It makes the hotel rather grand in a city full of glossy, from-the-future skyscrapers. Nice. What’s the crowd like?The Dome-Side rooms offer one of Tokyo's more peculiar views. Instead of facing other buildings, windows peer into its own rotunda; light pours through the domed ceiling for an up-close view of restored stone reliefs like a phoenix or a flower. Inside the room, a glass chandelier illuminates high ceilings and modernized regal decor like silk curtains, wingback chairs, and shiny surfaces (glass bedside lamps and coffee tables). It's certainly Euro-chic. The good stuff: Tell us about your room.The mattresses are all made by Simmons, so expect Western-style comfort (i.e., no futons). Please tell us the bathroom won’t let us down.There's less emphasis on made-in-Japan amenities; bathrobes are terry and fluffy, while Gilchrist & Soames bath products are equally nice. Maybe the most important topic of all: Wi-Fi. What’s the word?Like any great transportation hub, there are free Wi-Fi connections throughout the hotel—and yes, in every room, too. Room service: Worth it?More than enough of the selection from the 150-room hotel's 10 dining options can be delivered straight to the room. Staff: If you could award one a trophy, who gets it, and why?While there are pricier, more luxurious hotels, the staff (especially the concierge team) treats guests like royalty. Anything stand out about other services and features? Whether it’s childcare, gyms, spas, even parking—whatever stuck with you.The spa offers a series of artificial hot springs for a modest admission fee. What was most memorable—or heartbreaking—about your stay?The stunning octagonal domes in this grande dame. Bottom line: worth it, and why?If western comfort is your style, this ticks all the boxes. Plus, it's part of a train station, so navigating the city—or catching a direct train to the airport—couldn't be easier." - Keith Flanagan
