Conrad
Tokyo

The stylish and luxurious Conrad is a thoroughly modern hotel set amongst the high-rise architecture of the Shiodome district. Near to the renowned Tsukiji fish market and beautifully-designed Hamarikyu strolling gardens, the Conrad sits in a convenient and attractive location. An easy walk along an elevated walkway takes you to Shinbashi station on the Yamanote (circle) line for the main sightseeing loop, and the flagship stores of Ginza are on the doorstep.

Step into this hotel to be welcomed by an oasis of low-lit luxury, with the sleek cocktail bar offering views over Tokyo Bay to the colourful Rainbow Bridge. This contemporary scene catches one’s eye from the start and sets the tone for this hotel, for many modern touches are apparent in the interior design throughout the property. The effect is a fresh and stylish air, which can also be felt within the rooms.

Raised high above the ground, all of the rooms here offer panoramic city or bay views and have been tastefully designed to combine Japanese minimalist motifs with modern luxuries, such as cherry blossom print carpets and spacious bathtubs with floor-to-ceiling windows. One even has a magnificent view from the ample 25m swimming pool, in a light and airy atmosphere, thanks to the ingenious glass ceiling. The sauna and stream room provide perfect spots to relax, as does their Mizuki spa, which occupies an entire floor. Indulge in aromatherapy massages and treatments or soak in a Japanese cypress wood bathtub.

By all accounts the service levels here are impeccable, and the Conrad encapsulates all that is world class about Japan's hotels. Their Gordon Ramsay restaurant has now sadly closed, but their new French restaurant Collage features modern French dishes. Fine dining is also served in their Chinese restaurant, China Blue or enjoy the local cuisine at their Japanese restaurant, Kazahana.

Shiodome is a newly developed district, abuzz with gleaming skyscrapers – for a grittier experience, head to Shimbashi nearby. This district is relatively quiet during the day but gets far livelier as the sun goes down. Once the working day is over, locals fill the bars on every street corner to enjoy an evening drink - we highly recommend joining them!

Conrad is a great choice of hotel in Tokyo; not only is it close to the sights, it is also close to peaceful pockets of the city, our favourite being the Hamarikyu Gardens.

To my mind, the greatest reward and luxury of travel is to be able to experience everyday things as if for the first time, to be in a position in which almost nothing is so familiar it is taken for granted.
Bill Bryson