Scott Tang
Google
Nestled toward the top of the Nihonbashi financial hub by the Nihonbashi-gawa River, and sitting directly across from the Tokyo Stock Exchange, is a bank that has been reincarnated as a hyper-stylish boutique hotel called the K5. Repurposing its former industrial structure as raw materials almost as an artistic statement, the hotel nevertheless feels meticulously thought-through to be a pleasure to stay at.
One of the first things you will likely notice upon being ushered into the cafe for check-in are the plants. They are everywhere, and range from giant monstera plants to small ferns and cacti growing out of old shoes. The next thing that will become clear is how hyper-designed the hotel is, down to the smallest detail. Stepping into the room and looking up at the trademark blue gradient curtains encircling the bed while a Roger Eno album pings gently on the record player was a stunning experience. The bathroom is equally surprising with a light in the middle of the mirror that dims from red to a pale pink. There are no less than four dimmer switches to control the bathroom lighting. The curation of books, furniture, and toiletries - several of which appear to be collaborations with trendy brands - all create a feeling that you are staying someplace truly special. This is ambience with a capital A.
Besides the cafe, which features a limited but creative menu, the hotel also features a restaurant and cocktail lounge, neither of which I had time to try unfortunately. But the style and atmosphere of the hotel clearly permeates through each one of them.
Service is also top-shelf. Several times the front desk staff - young, helpful, and sophisticated - were able to answer questions about the surrounding area, make recommendations and accommodate a few special requests.
A few quirks to mention: there is no central heating due to the underlying structure, but Dyson heater/fans are available upon request. The heated seats and warm water for the washlets are also apparently turned off beginning in May for the warmer months so if you are there during the shoulder/tsuyu seasons, you can ask for them to be turned back on. Finally the waterfall shower tends to get water all over the bathroom - a rare example of the design feeling more like form over function - but using the handheld shower alleviates this.
A few tips: rooms can be sparse so book well in advance, and note the area, which is mostly a business district, meaning konbini and train stations are slightly further away than many hotels in Tokyo. Finally, plan on taking lots of photos. The K5 is truly one of the vibiest places I have ever stayed, in Japan or anywhere else.