Four Seasons Marunouchi
Tokyo

In a prime location just south of Tokyo station, the Four Seasons is possibly the only Tokyo hotel we could describe as boutique. As soon as one steps into the sleek, light-filled lobby with tasteful pastel wall hangings and seasonal trees, one can sense the calm and cosy atmosphere of this hotel.

Starting halfway up a high-rise building, the 57 spacious rooms and studios are thoroughly contemporary with a focus on clean and fresh aesthetics, but the Japanese touches shine through in the details. Black lacquer tabletops, ikebana flower arrangements and kimono-like cushion patterns let one know that one is in Tokyo. This hotel seems to have been designed very much with the Western visitor in mind, with free Wi-fi throughout the hotel (still becoming the norm in Japan), and an English-speaking concierge service on a par with the other luxury hotels in this part of the city. The attentive staff even extend their services to the train stations, for they are happy to meet guests at the platform upon arrival as well as provide accompaniment back to the station after.

Other luxurious amenities at the Four Seasons Marunouchi include an up-to-date fitness studio, which is open to guests around the clock, and a spa. Their spa not only offers massages and skin treatments but also houses a steam sauna, jet showers and a traditional hot spring onsen bath.

Dining here is a delight – choose between French cuisine served at the ‘MOTIF’ restaurant or light tapas served in the ‘Gastronomic Gallery’, otherwise simply dine in the comfort of your own room.

Location-wise, this is an ideal place to stay. Set in the heart of Marunouchi business district, Tokyo Imperial Palace in only a few minutes’ walk away as are the gleaming fashion streets of Ginza and the traditional area of Nihonbashi, home to the iconic Misukoshi department shop. Just a stone throw’s away from Tokyo station, guests staying here have access to one of the city’s largest transport hubs with connections to practically anywhere in Tokyo and beyond.

The Four Seasons Marunouchi is a haven of calm to arrive at after a long flight or busy day of sightseeing.

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