Tokyo Travel Guide

Most major four-star and five-star hotels are located conveniently within walking distance of commercial and business areas and other places of interest around Tokyo, such as the Ginza, Akasaka-mitsuke, Shinagawa, Ebisu, Shinjuku, Ikebukuro and Roppongi. Some of these hotels are locally owned, others belong to global hotel chains, but all provide the highest standards of international hotel service. Rooms are usually smaller than in other cities, since space is at a premium in Tokyo, but you can be sure your stay will be a very comfortable and pleasant one. Most of the staff speak English and provide service with that unique Japanese attention to detail.

Ginza

Take in some serious 70s kitsch at the Hotel Alcyone, a reasonably priced and comfortable hotel that has preserved all of its gaudy décor from this era. Check out the nearby Kabuki-za theater for some interesting entertainment. A hotel that won't cost you much is the Tokyo Hotel Urashima, and since it's located right in the middle of the Ginza shopping oasis, you'll have plenty of places to spend the money you saved on your bill. Also close to many shops and restaurants is the Ginza Nikko Hotel, which is slightly more expensive, but definitely do-able if you're on a budget.

Roppongi

It's good to be based in this district if you have partying in mind; you'll find a ton of trouble in Roppongi. Hotel Okura ranks among the top ten hotels in the world. You certainly get the best here: a choice of deluxe rooms, a salon, spa, photo studio and even a dentist. Hotel Ibis is a more reasonably-priced place to stay, and is just as relaxing.

Akasaka-mitsuke

The modern and very plush Hotel New Otani has a rooftop rose garden and a museum that is free to all guests. Not to worry; budget hotels do exist in Tokyo. Try the Asia Center of Japan. Rooms come with a bath or without, and there is an in-house cafeteria dining hall that serves up cheap, tasty eats. The Toshi Center Hotel is set up to accommodate business travelers, so there are conference rooms and banquet halls, but the rooms are still comfortable and there are a few dining options availible.

Shinjuku

The world's busiest train station is located in this district, along with the various businesses that comprise Tokyo's major commercial center. The Hotel Kent is siutated close to many bars, restaurants and large arcades, perfect if you're in the mood to be out all night. The English-speaking staff at Star Hotel Tokyo give guests all the basics to ensure that their stay is easy and comfortable.

Ikebukuro

Several large department stores selling everything from women's cosmetics and hosiery to electronics and video games can be found in the bright, neon lights of this district. The Ark Hotel Tokyo provides guests with Western-style accomodations, while Hotel Grand City is less-expensive and a good choice for those looking to be close to Sunshine City. The Kimi Ryokan have rooms with tatami mats, if you're looking to try something different.

Ebisu

This is also a popular spot among travelers looking to stay close to Roppongi and Shibuya. Ebisu is named for the Yebisu brand ale created by the Japan Beer Brewery. Today you can visit the Yebisu Garden Place, which houses a free museum dedicated to the history of the Brewery. Nearby, the Japanese-style rooms of the Sheraton Miyako Hotel Tokyo offer a nice change from the ordinary. Or try the beautiful, 30s-era Gajoen Kanko Hotel, which offers traditional, stylish rooms and top-notch service.

Shinagawa

Moderately-priced hotels in this area include the Shinagawa Prince Hotel, which has a pool, karaoke bar and an in-hotel cinema. It's close to Shinagawa Aquarium, but the hotel has its own Aqua Stadium, which has aquariums, dolphins shows and even a roller coaster. The Dai-ichi Hotel Tokyo Seafort is a high-end, friendly hotel that offers views of Tokyo Bay and a choice of three restaurants, all with large bay windows and lovely, modern décor.

Kanda / Ochanomizu

The Sakura Hotel or the New Central Hotel are good for those looking for very inexpenisve accomodations. Somewhat spartan, with shared bathrooms (bring your own towel) and cramped quarters, these lodgings are often as cheerful as they are cheap. Friendly and homey, their eclectic common rooms are the melting pot for countless travelers from around the world. The Hotel Juraku is another no-frills option.2008-08-02T07:29:22.000 80