Best hotels in Tokyo

A unique blend of cosy hospitality and a rich literary atmosphere. Its distinctive library-themed concept, combined with its prime location in the heart of Tokyo, makes it an ideal retreat for both book lovers and urban explorers.

With a lobby on the 25th floor of the Shiodome Media Tower, the Park Hotel couldn't be better situated for getting under the skin of Tokyo. Right by a subway station - and only 5 minutes from the Hamamatsucho monorail station - it’s easy to enjoy the full scope of Japan's capital, from the mind-boggling lights of Shinjuku to the serenity of the Hamarikyu Gardens (they're just a 10-minute stroll away). Back at the hotel, prepare to be awed by the incredible artwork: not only does the hotel rotate the art installations in the lobby almost every month, there is an entire floor that has been completely transformed by the work of a Japanese artist.

A city within a city, Roppongi Hills is a glamorous corner of Tokyo where tourists rub shoulders with expats and businessmen. Of course, this was the perfect spot for another Grand Hyatt in Japan. With an incredible 10 dining spots, you'll be spoiled for choice when it comes to where to eat, from intimate Teppanyaki-style meals to some of the finest sushi in the city, prepared with market-fresh ingredients and served alongside artisanal sake. The hotel has over 380 rooms, all exceedingly spacious, and the higher you go, the better the view, with some looking out to Tokyo Tower and distant Mount Fuji.

This is a luxury urban hotel offering a special space away from the hustle and bustle of the city. The spacious guest rooms on the 39th floor and above feature interiors that incorporate Japanese traditional culture and views overlooking Tokyo. On the top floor, you can spend time reconnecting with yourself with 360-degree panoramic views in the Sky Private Villa, which offers unique culinary experiences in an unparalleled space, a spa where you can experience the blessings of Japan's nature, and five penthouses.

If you're after a Tokyo hotel that feels Japanese rather than just playing at it, this one hits the mark. A short walk from Shinagawa Station and split across 288 rooms, it sits on 20,000 square metres of landscaped grounds with over 210 cherry blossom trees - which is to say, this is less of a downtown hotel and more of an urban retreat (with a serious garden). The rooms deliver proper views and Japanese restraint - book the Executive Floor for lounge access and garden strolls. Two restaurants anchor the dining: Ciliegio does thoughtful Italian-Japanese cooking, whilst Nadaman Takanawa Prime trades in seasonal Japanese a short walk from Shinagawa Station. What sets it apart isn't the spa, pools or gym - it's that this feels like an real part of Japan's capital.

Opening shortly after the station itself, Tokyo Station Hotel has been cutting a striking figure above the streets of Marunouchi since 1915. Topped with ornate prewar domes and lined with tall, arched windows, it is set apart from Tokyo’s glitzy, glass hotels, and has been designated as an Important Cultural Property of Japan. The hotel enjoys a dedicated entrance to Tokyo Station, making it easy to zip off to see the city’s many dazzling sights and fabulous restaurants. Although, the hotel holds its own with a collection of 10 restaurants and bars to choose from. We can see why it has welcomed so many prominent guests over the years.

Located amidst the bustling streets of Shinjuku, the Keio Plaza Hotel has one of those take-your-breath-away views of Tokyo. Spread across two towers and multiple floors, there are over 1,400 rooms, all with views of Tokyo through the enormous picture windows – the highest even get a glimpse of Mount Fuji on the clearest day. What's more, it's only a few minutes away from one of the city's major train stations, meaning you can zip off to just about anywhere at a moment's notice. In between real-life adventures, let your tastebuds do the travelling at one of 20 restaurants in the hotel, offering everything from teppanyaki to French-Italian fusion.