WHERE OUR PASTRY CHEF FINDS INSPIRATION
“The neighbourhood of Omotesando is an absolute delight – I’ve lived here ever since I moved to Tokyo 15 years ago. I love to stroll down the sophisticated streets lined with boutique stores and modern buildings that are like works of art. There’s always something new to discover at Spiral, which houses everything from art exhibits to cafés. Don’t miss out on the flower art installation gallery by Azuma Makoto, a renowned Japanese floral artist.”
WHERE OUR ASSISTANT DIRECTOR OF ROOMS GETS HER GIN ON
“A night out for me almost always begins at Cocktails Works. This is one of Tokyo’s most legendary gin bars – and with good reason. You can try over 150 varieties of craft gin, including one-of-a-kind local gins. I recommend Wabijin, an aromatic gin finished with Damask rose, or shochu-based gin, a thoroughly Japanese invention. Just a 15-minute walk from our Hotel, this lively bar is a must-visit for gin lovers.”
AN ARTISTIC ROUTE FROM OUR Executive ASSISTANT
“My perfect day begins in Ginza at Kyukodo, a centuries-old specialty store that stocks beautiful Japanese paper, calligraphy supplies, incense and handicrafts. From here, head up Ginza’s chuo dori ('middle street') to Nihonbashi, where you will find Kamiya Art. This Japanese art gallery showcases avant-garde calligrapher Yuichi Inoue, as well as up-and-coming local artists. What makes it extra-special is the atelier, where you can interact with craftsmen and have artwork framed or repaired.”
WHERE OUR EXECUTIVE CHEF RAISES HIS GAME
“One place that is always enjoyable no matter how many times you visit is Kappabashi Street in Asakusa. It’s a wholesale district specializing in kitchenware and cooking utensils, selling everything from traditional Japanese knives to pottery. I bought my first chef’s knife there when I became a chef at Kamaasa, which was founded in 1908. These knives are also used at our Hotel. In addition to knife shops, there’s also Tsubaya, which sells a variety of cutting tools. At Majimaya Kashi Dogu, find a wide selection of cookie cutters and silicone molds in Kappabashi with over 170 shops lining both sides of the 800-metre- (2625-foot-) long street.”
How Our Guest Experience & Concierge Officer of Rooms Spends His Day Off
“Zojoji Temple is one of my favourite spots to visit on a day off. Feel the history as you retrace the steps of thousands before you at this monument from the Muromachi period – a haven where you can relax as you inhale the aroma of incense. Next door lies Shiba Koen Park, an oasis in the heart of Tokyo. I love to pick up a coffee from a nearby café and sit on a bench to soak in views of Tokyo Tower. Set against the iconic skyline, the contrast between the green of the park, the blue sky and the red tower evokes a feeling that’s unmistakably Tokyo. Afterwards, head to Tokyo Shiba Tofuya Ukai, a nearby restaurant that serves authentic Kaiseki cuisine, for their house specialty – an array of traditionally made tofu dishes.”
Brews and Boutiques From Our Concierge
“Although it’s difficult to pick a favourite café in Tokyo, Streamer Coffee is at the top of my list. Of its six locations, I frequent the one in Setagaya-ku. Not only can you sip delicious brews, but you can also witness latte art. Hiroshi Sawada, the company’s founder, was the first Asian to win the Latte Art World Championship in Seattle in 2008. As for my favourite shopping spot in Tokyo, Bonus Track in Shimokitazawa instantly comes to mind. Explore this collective of boutiques before popping into one of the many nearby restaurants.”
Our Senior Guest Experience & Concierge Manager’s Favourite Cocktail Hotspot
“One of my favourite bars is Memento Mori, which is located in the Toranomon Yokocho food court. Mixologist Nagumo Shuzo opened this concept bar to challenge himself, and he specializes in using all things cacao. With a commitment to sustainability, the bar also uses cocktail fruits and other foods in creative ways to minimize waste. I like to sip a chocolate-flavoured cocktail or get adventurous with a cacao-pulp concoction. Go early – it’s the best time to chat with the bartenders. Shuzo’s knowledge about the history of cacao is tremendous, and a conversation with him is always enjoyable.”
A Day Exploring From Our Senior Concierge Supervisor
“The areas of Harajuku and Omotesando offer a perfect blend of attractions. While in Harajuku, I love to visit Meiji Jingu, Tokyo’s largest shrine. Stroll down the tree-lined pathway and step through a tall Torii gate to discover Kiyomasa’s Well, located in a peaceful garden. Walk on the stepping stones around the well and gaze at its water to feel the positive energy. The best time to visit is just before noon, when the dappled morning light makes for beautiful photos. Then, head to Omotesando for art, architecture and high fashion – think of it as Tokyo’s answer to the Champs-Élysées in Paris.”
Where Our Concierge Goes to Recharge
“When in need of some spiritual healing, I visit Hakone, a town close to Tokyo that offers everything from hot springs to gourmet foods. Several hot spring baths can be found in the town valleys and along the shores of Lake Ashi – equally relaxing for body and mind. For lunch, I recommend the natural yam soba dish at Hatsuhana, a noodle restaurant located next to Hakone-Yumoto Station. Another must-visit is the valley of Owakudani, famous for its sulphur springs and black eggs, which are regular eggs that turn black when boiled in the town’s volcanic water. Gaze upon magnificent Mount Fuji as you feel the energy of the volcanic earth pulsing beneath your feet.”