The Okura Tokyo
Tokyo

Opened in 1962 with the 1964 Japan Olympics in mind, The Okura Tokyo has long been a celebrated symbol of elegance and understated luxury. Over the decades, it has played host to a distinguished line-up of movie stars, dignitaries and world leaders, including every American president since Nixon. In a city where change is constant, The Okura remains the last hotel standing from the golden era of post-war Tokyo.

Stepping into the hotel feels like a journey back in time, where you’re greeted by the hushed tones of its expansive lobby and the warmth of classic design that has been carefully preserved throughout the years. The hotel’s iconic Orchid Bar, famous for its stunning beaten-copper tables, has inspired replicas in drinking establishments across the world, and is just one of the many period details that lend The Okura its unique charm. The lobby showcases an array of vintage treasures, from the striking map of time zones to the mural by the artist Tomimoto, which adds to the sense of quiet nostalgia. In addition, the elegant, seasonal floral arrangements of ikebana, alongside the soft wood interiors, subtly evoke the timeless beauty of Japanese craftsmanship.

The rooms, though undeniably showing their age, are part of the hotel’s signature allure, imbued with a sense of history and grace that contrasts the city’s constant push for innovation. In a Tokyo that’s always evolving, there’s something truly special about staying in a place that retains its classic appeal amidst the ever-changing landscape. Many visitors find the slight patina of age adds to The Okura's character, offering a more authentic, peaceful respite from the city’s modern hustle.

Located in the quiet and sophisticated Embassy District of Toranomon, The Okura offers a tranquil escape from the busy streets of Tokyo, but is still just a short taxi ride away from the city’s most vibrant areas, such as Shinjuku, Roppongi and Ginza, making it perfectly situated for those looking to experience both the calm and excitement of Tokyo. While the newer luxury hotels may offer sleek, cutting-edge design and immediate satisfaction, there’s something uniquely magical about The Okura’s enduring legacy. This is a place that feels timeless, echoing the romantic charm of the 1966 Cary Grant movie "Walk, Don't Run," which was filmed here.

Despite the towering glass-and-steel hotels that surround it, The Okura still retains a sense of exclusivity and charm that is rare in Tokyo’s rapidly evolving skyline. It’s a place where old-world hospitality and grace continue to shine, making it not just a hotel, but a living piece of Tokyo’s history. Whether you’re sipping a cocktail at the Orchid Bar or exploring the serene, wooden-lined interiors, The Okura offers a sense of belonging, a place to return to amidst the constant buzz of the city.

I can't think of anything that excites a greater sense of childlike wonder than to be in a country where you are ignorant of almost everything.
Bill Bryson