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"An iconic property just a stone’s throw from the Imperial Palace, Palace Hotel Tokyo pairs classic omotenashi hospitality with spacious rooms and a prime central location. Japanese-owned and originally built in 1961, it has hosted numerous royal and distinguished guests, then underwent a complete rebuild for a 2012 grand reopening led by one of Japan’s largest architecture firms. Understated Japanese luxury shows in details like exceptionally soft Imabari towels and rustic Mashiko-yaki teacups from Tochigi Prefecture. Service strikes the perfect balance—attentive without being overbearing—with staff going out of their way to ensure a memorable stay, and the setting is right beside the Imperial Palace moat." - Kim Kahan