Mandarin Oriental

From the moment you check-in, the views from the Mandarin take centre stage — the lobby's two-storey windows make certain of that. The hotel has 12 restaurants, running the gamut from superb Cantonese cuisine (think prawns the size of your fist) to a casual pizza bar, an elegant French eatery, and an intimate sushi spot. For your evening libations accompanied by jazz, head to the bar, or take your pick from 20 different brews at the Sense Tea Corner. And after all that, visit the 'Spa in the Sky' experience on the 38th floor and work your way through the extensive menu of treatments.

Pillow menus, deep bathtubs and a serious view are all yours to enjoy at the Mandarin Oriental - they even provide binoculars! All rooms are decorated in shades of champagne and cream with splashes of purple scatter cushions and potted orchids. The en-suite bathroom is behind a glass wall, which can be cleverly obscured at the touch of a button. Each room has a window-side chaise longe while certain suites feature authentic Japanese motifs and crafts. The grandest is the Presidential Suite, which has a dining area and library, and a bedroom ceiling that appears as if you're looking through tree branches.

Situated in the Nihonbashi district, the hotel is surrounded by alleys where artisans make items just as they did centuries ago, as well as high-end kimono shops and kabuki theatres. The hotel offers a number of activities including rickshaw tours, sushi making workshops and Japanese tea ceremonies. For the foodies, there is Tsukiji Market, while culture seekers will enjoy a trip to the Museum of Contemporary Art. You can also take a ride down the river on a Yakatabune Boat, taking in the sights as you go.