The Best Luxury And Boutique Hotel Stays In Tokyo
Whether you’re travelling there for work or for play, consider indulging in some of the most luxurious quarters it has to offer.
By JAMES WONG and SARAH ADRIANA,
#1: The Tokyo EDITION, Ginza
Credit: Booking.com
Tucked just off Chuo Street, Ginza’s famed thoroughfare of high-end fashion houses and glossy department stores, The Tokyo EDITION, Ginza brings a quiet kind of luxury to one of Tokyo’s most electric neighborhoods. It’s where old-world charm and modern culture meet, distilled into a space that feels as much like a retreat as it does a statement.
With just 86 guest rooms and 10 suites, the hotel leans into a boutique sensibility, intimate, understated, and quietly sophisticated. Designed b Kengo Kuma, the celebrated Japanese architect behind Tokyo’s Olympic Stadium and known for his contemporary achitectural style, the interiors embrace natural materials, clean lines, and soft light. It’s EDITION’s global design DNA filtered through a distinctively Japanese lens, made warmer and more tactile. The result is modern without being sterile, luxe without being loud.
Credit: EDITION Hotels
Each room feels thoughtfully composed rather than overtly styled, merging Ian Schrager’s vision of cosmopolitan cool with Kuma’s affinity for craftsmanship and serenity. The restraint feels intentional; the details, quietly indulgent.
Downstairs, the property plays host to four dining and drinking venues, from a sleek rooftop bar to Japan’s first punch-centric cocktail lounge, a contemporary brewery, and the relaxed but refined Lobby Bar. There's also a compact gym, though the real workout might just be keeping up with Ginza’s retail maze.
The Tokyo EDITION, Ginza doesn’t shout for attention. It doesn’t need to. It’s a space for slowing down, for design lovers, for those who want their luxury with a little more soul.
Book here.
#2: Bellustar, Tokyo
Credit: Bellustar Tokyo
In the middle of Shinjuku’s Kabukicho district, Bellustar Tokyo floats high above the fray. Occupying the 39th to 47th floors of the Tokyu Kabukicho Tower, the hotel is a sleek urban escape that trades noise for calm, offering sweeping views and soft luxury more than 200 metres in the sky.
The hotel’s 97 guest rooms are a study in quiet refinement, where Japanese craftsmanship meets modern elegance. Think muted palettes, textured woods, and seven-metre-wide panoramic windows that turn Tokyo’s skyline into moving art. It’s the kind of room that makes you want to leave your phone untouched and just watch the city breathe.
At the pinnacle sits the Sky Private Villa, a series of penthouse suites that come with their own brand of high-altitude indulgence, from private dining to skyline soaking tubs. But even if you’re not checking into the top floor, the on-site spa, SPA sunya, offers a tranquil “in-the-clouds” reset. Book a Holistic Energy Treatment or Medicinal Aromatherapy session and you’ll feel like you’ve stepped off the grid without leaving the city.
Credit: Bellustar Tokyo
Dining here is another elevation altogether. With three restaurants and a cocktail bar, the hotel celebrates Japanese seasonality and terroir through modern menus that let ingredients shine. Dinner feels extra cinematic when it’s served under the stars, with the cityscape glittering far below.
Bellustar Tokyo doesn’t try to escape its chaotic surroundings. Instead, it rises above them, literally and metaphorically, to offer something more rare: stillness, style, and sky-high serenity.
Book here.
#3: Hotel Gajoen Tokyo
Credit: Hotel Gajoen Tokyo
Tucked away in the quieter pocket of Shimomeguro, Hotel Gajoen Tokyo is more than just a luxury stay, it’s a living gallery of Japanese artistry. Known for its meticulous approach to omotenashi (Japanese hospitality), the hotel offers a rare kind of elegance, where lacquered hallways, hand-painted ceilings, and immersive cultural experiences come together in one striking, unforgettable escape.
With only 60 suites, each room is spacious, serene, and intentionally opulent, whirlpool baths and in-room steam saunas come standard, making it just as suited for winding down as it is for dressing up. Every detail feels curated to slow you down and ground you in the present, whether you're soaking in the bath or gazing out across the Meguro River.
On the eighth floor, the OUKA executive lounge is where guests can retreat for tea, cocktails, and skyline views. The TSUBAKI library lounge, also on the same level adds another layer of charm, stocked with art books and enveloped in moody, museum-like ambience. Come morning, the New American Grill “Kanade Terrace” serves up a breakfast buffet that spans East and West with ease.
Credit: Hotel Gajoen Tokyo
But what truly sets Gajoen apart is the cultural programming. Guests can opt in for kimono fittings, Furoshiki wrapping, calligraphy workshops, or join guided art tours through the hotel’s ornate corridors. Matcha ceremonies are also available for those looking to indulge in the ritual and romance of tea the traditional way.
It’s part hotel, part heritage site, and if you’re the kind of traveler who appreciates both quiet luxury and cultural depth, Hotel Gajoen Tokyo is a must-book.
Book here.
#4: TRUNK (HOTEL), Tokyo
Credit: TRUNK (HOTEL)
Perfectly positioned between Shibuya and Harajuku, TRUNK (HOTEL) CAT STREET doesn’t just give you a place to crash, it invites you into a lifestyle. Built on the ethos of living in the now and doing good with intention, this boutique hotel feels like a love letter to Tokyo’s most forward-thinking generation.
Inside, TRUNK (LOUNGE) is the social heart of the space, a hybrid living room, co-working spot, and cocktail bar where creatives, locals, and travelers cross paths effortlessly. There’s no pretentious velvet rope here, just good energy and better coffee.
Each of the hotel’s rooms is individually designed, so no two stays ever feel the same. Whether you’re booked into the Terrace Suite, Balcony Junior Suite, or a compact standard room, the interiors are thoughtful, tactile, and heavy on personality. Art pieces and carefully sourced furnishings turn every space into something worth exploring, not just sleeping in.
Credit: TRUNK (HOTEL)
The hotel’s restaurant, TRUNK (KITCHEN), keeps things easy but elevated, an all-day dining concept that spans breakfast through late-night bites. Choose a vibe: terrace people-watching, counter-seating for solo diners, or the chef’s table.
Then there’s the TRUNK (STORE), a modern twist on the Japanese konbini. Here, you’ll find eco-conscious merch like mugs made from recycled pottery, locally sourced organic snacks, and minimalist souvenirs that are actually worth packing. It’s a place to shop, chat, and maybe rethink what “convenience” looks like.
At its core, TRUNK (HOTEL) is more than a stay. It’s a curated slice of Tokyo life, one that’s intentional, community-driven, and unapologetically stylish.
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#5: The Ritz-Carlton, Tokyo
The Ritz-Carlton, Tokyo steals the number one position as our favourite luxury Tokyo hotel. Located on the top nine floors of the city’s tallest building, Tokyo Midtown, you can expect 360-degree panoramic vistas of Tokyo, including Tokyo Tower and Mount Fuji.
Rooms come with Frette linens and feather mattresses for a superbly comfortable night’s sleep, and deep-soaking tubs for ultimate relaxation. Room windows are also mounted with large wooden panels that you can sit on, while you enjoy the sunset with a glass of mini-bar champagne.
Aside from guest rooms, the hotel facilities are pure luxury. Restaurants include Azure 45 for French cuisine, modern bistro Towers, and four Japanese restaurants which are known to be favoured by visiting Hollywood celebrities. In the evening, the sky lobby and bar area are a must-visit, with live jazz music in a buzzing atmosphere. We found the pool area noisy so would recommend it for families and groups, but for those looking for some quiet time alone, it’s worth shelling out an additional 6,000 yen (US$52) to use the private spa area, complete with gorgeous onsen (above), relaxation rooms, steam room and sauna, and luxury amenities.
The hotel is large with 245 guest rooms and suites, yet retains an intimate boutique feel. Service is excellent and the staff are wonderful when it comes to remembering and tending to your needs. If hotels were royalty, the Ritz-Carlton, Tokyo would certainly be king and therefore our recommended stay for Tokyo.
Book here.
#6: Shangri-La Hotel, Tokyo
This stunning hotel occupies the top 11 floors of the Marunouchi Trust Tower Main building in a convenient location right by Tokyo Station. This station is where you’ll find the Shinkansen train services which connect all over Japan, facilitating travel if you plan on escaping the capital.
The hotel’s dining facilities include Italian restaurant Piacere and the very stylish Japanese restaurant, Nadaman. CHI, The Spa at Shangri-La features ancient Chinese healing therapies and we love that there are completely private areas where you can hide away and experience a peaceful world of your own. The pool and gym areas (above) overlook the city, and there’s nothing like a dip in the pool and curling up on one of the soft loungers with a book after a long day of conferences or meetings. The staff are attentive, though non-intrusive.
Rooms are spacious and the colour scheme is earthy and calming, with an Asian twist. Most have baths with a view, so if your bath-time regime falls at sunset then you’ve hit the jackpot. The Presidential Suite (above), dripping with chandeliers, is the ultimate in accommodation extravagance, with wonderfully huge rooms, private gym, private spa, hot tub, and kitchen – though we can’t imagine you’ll want to do your own cooking with hotel facilities like these.
Book here.
#7: Mandarin Oriental, Tokyo
Located in the historic neighbourhood of Nihonbashi, Mandarin Oriental, Tokyo is a brilliantly designed modern skyscraper, with wood and water themes throughout the building. The Mandarin Bar is a popular spot for both in-house guests and the business crowd who come to enjoy live music in a chic setting. Try and grab a seat in the water lounge if you can – it’s like floating on a river. If tea is more your beverage of choice, the Sense Tea Corner offers a range of premium Chinese and Taiwanese teas, as well as the best mango pudding we’ve ever tasted. The 24-hour fitness centre is rather compact, but with a glorious window lookout from the treadmill and delicious complimentary detox juices, its size can certainly be overlooked.
Guest rooms feature one of two types of floors, a bamboo floor or a carpeted walnut floor (above). The interiors are understated and calming and every room, of course, has perfect views of the city.
Around the hotel is a shopper’s paradise, with the famous Nihonbashi Mitsukoshi department store situated right next door. Further along, expect to find an abundance of boutiques, restaurants and bars, with the energetic Ginza district just a stone’s throw away.
Book here.
#8: Park Hyatt Tokyo
You may have seen this hotel in one of the most famous movies ever set in Tokyo – Lost In Translation. Park Hyatt Tokyo begins on the 41st floor of the Shinjuku Park Tower, and provides a luxurious oasis above the busy chaos of the city.
The New York Grill (above) on the 52nd floor which features in the movie has become a popular go-to spot for tourists, but we prefer the more low-key Peak Bar on the 41st floor, which serves classic cocktails in a bamboo garden. As well as standard spa, fitness centre and lounge facilities, what we especially love about this hotel is the in-house library. It houses books on travel, art and culture, which are available on loan to guests.
The modern rooms are incredibly comfortable, with Egyptian cotton duvets, walk-in wardrobes and deep luxury bathtubs with 15-inch TVs in the bathroom, in case you wish to take in a movie while you soak.
Book here.
#9: Imperial Hotel Tokyo
One of Japan’s oldest and most prestigious establishments, Imperial Hotel Tokyo opened in 1890, and has seen among its guests the likes of Margaret Thatcher and Queen Elizabeth II. The feel of the hotel is grand and traditional, with a spectacular lobby and central staircase leading up to the rooms and facilities. We love the extensive list of Japanese cuisine available here, including succulent teppanyaki open-grilled steaks and seafood prepared table-side in their Kamon restaurant. The baths and saunas are quintessentially Japanese, with a beautiful traditional onsen next to the fitness centre.
The service at the hotel is renowned for being top-notch – there are guest attendants on executive levels to cater to your every need. Considering the busy surroundings, the rooms are peacefully quiet with large, super-soft beds to ensure a good night’s sleep. Many of them have great views of Hibiya Park and the Imperial Palace East Gardens. Room furnishings blend traditional Japanese with what seems to be a comfy British style, which we really like.
Book here.
#10: Four Seasons Hotel Tokyo at Marunouchi
A place to experience intimate luxury is at Four Seasons’ boutique Marunouchi hotel, right in the heart of Tokyo’s central business district. If you’re coming from the airport by train, expect to be greeted at the station and taken right up to your hotel room in a smooth and personalised service.
The rooms are modern and elegant with soft, white sheets and subtle lighting, and equipped with entertainment amenities including a games console – if that’s your method of unwinding.
There’s also a blissful spa in a quiet and relaxed setting that will transport you to Bali. There are two private treatment rooms, wet spa facilities including a steam sauna, jet showers and a traditional onsen bath for the complete Japanese experience.
Book here.
#11: Aman Tokyo
Aman Tokyo is in Otemachi, close to Tokyo Station, Nihonbashi and Roppongi. This is the biggest Aman hotel in the world, occupying the top six floors of the Otemachi Tower. It retains the signature Aman minimalist style (above) with nods to Japanese heritage, using wood, paper and stone. This inspiration continues in the rooms, which feature traditional materials including washi paper, fusing modern technology with sumptuous fabrics. Splash out on one of the 157 sq m Aman Suites, which have a luxurious separate bedroom and a living room with dining area and pantry.
The Restaurant by Aman (above) specialises in cuisine from Italy’s Veneto region, and boasts amazing views of the Imperial Palace East Gardens and Mount Fuji. The Café by Aman offers casual French dishes; we recommend the crêpes on the dessert menu. A soothing onsen-style stone bath looking out over the city is the highlight of the spa, which offers a range of relaxing massages using seasonal herbs and traditional Japanese kampo medicine.
Book here.
#12: Conrad Tokyo
Conrad Tokyo is conveniently located on the top floors of the Tokyo Shiodome Building and offers panoramic views of the picturesque Hamarikyu Gardens and the Tokyo Bay skyline. The hotel is just a short walk away from the boutiques and high-end department stores of Ginza.
TwentyEight (above) is one of the superb hotel bars at Conrad Tokyo, serving cocktails as well as afternoon tea. There are a number of restaurants but we particularly liked the Kazahana, which serves traditional Japanese dishes with a modern twist, including innovative sushi and teppan dishes. If you want to take a break from Japanese fare, then the China Blue restaurant is also sensational for Chinese cuisine.
The rooms are contemporary with traditional touches such as lantern-style lamps, paired with breathtaking views. The king room (above) has a bay view, with a stylish bathroom complete with freestanding bath and marble basins.
Book here.
#13: Claska
Claska is a little different from the other luxury hotels in that it is a design-focused boutique establishment. There are just 20 rooms in styles such as Japanese Modern, Tatami (above), Contemporary and D.I.Y. Japanese artists and designers were given free rein to do whatever they pleased in the D.I.Y rooms, resulting in unique experiences that you won’t find in any other hotel – they are works of art in themselves.
As well as accommodation, Claska is a popular spot to dine and shop. Kiokuh restaurant serves delicious French-influenced dishes (above) for all-day dining created by chef Hidemitsu Yuzawa, who has worked in Michelin-star restaurants. Hotel shop Do stocks craft products from around Japan.
Book here.
#14: Wired Hotel Asakusa
This is another hotel that sets itself apart from the more traditional luxury list, targeting hip young travellers. Wired Hotel Asakusa, opened in April 2017, is by the team behind Japan’s Wired Café chain. It has rooms to suit all kinds of travel needs, but for those looking for a bit of indulgence, then check in to the lovely Penthouse by Duxiana. It feels like your own Tokyo penthouse complete with private terrace, king-sized bed and chic bathroom. The style is a playful twist on traditional Japan.
On the first floor, the vibrant Zakbaran cafe-bar (above) attracts a young trendy crowd. Breakfast and lunch feature freshly made tofu and traditional Edo-era dishes, while traditional Japanese sweets and matcha beverages are served in the afternoon. At night, the place transforms into a lively bar, serving cocktails, shochu and a large selection of Japanese sake.
Book here.
Images: Supplied, Ritz-Carlton Tokyo, Shang-ri La Tokyo, Mandarin Oriental Tokyo, Park Hyatt Tokyo Facebook, Park Hyatt Tokyo, Imperial Hotel Tokyo Facebook, Four Seasons Tokyo, Aman Tokyo, Conrad Tokyo Facebook, Claska Facebook, Wired Hotel Asakusa Facebook
This story first appeared on www.silverkris.com
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