The Okura Hotel is one of Tokyo’s most prestigious hotels, and is a known landmark in the city. It is also home to one of the best restaurants in all of Japan – The Okura restaurant. This article will give you an overview of what you can expect from this amazing hotel, including its history and facilities. It will also introduce you to the hotel’s signature restaurant and its incredible culinary experience. So, if you are looking for somewhere to stay when visiting Tokyo, or simply want somewhere special to take your partner for an evening out, read on for everything you need to know about the Okura Hotel.
The History of the Okura Hotel Tokyo
The Okura Hotel Tokyo first opened its doors in 1962, and was the brainchild of Shojiro Ishibashi – the founder of the multinational manufacturing company, the Bridgestone Corporation. Ishibashi traveled to Tokyo in 1957 with the intention of building a new headquarters for his company, but fell in love with the city and decided to stay. He then went on to build one of the most innovative hotels in Tokyo with the financial backing of the Bridgestone Corporation. The hotel’s architects, the architectural firm of Watanabe and Engineers, designed the building with four themes in mind: the city of Tokyo, the contemporary, the traditional, and the future. The hotel’s designers also wanted to create a hotel that was completely different from any others in the city, and one that would stand out as a landmark. They succeeded; the hotel is now a famous tourist attraction, a fact that is reflected in its high TripAdvisor rating.
Awards and Recognition
The Okura Hotel Tokyo made history when it was the first Japanese hotel to win a five-star rating from the Mobil Travel Guide’s blue-chip rating system in 1961. It made history again in 1967 when it became the first Japanese hotel to be awarded a five-star rating by the American Automobile Association’s TourBook guide. Since then, the hotel has continued to win awards and recognition for its service, accommodation, and cultural and environmental sustainability. Notably, the hotel was awarded the title of ‘Most Efficient Hotel in Asia Pacific’ by the International Hotel Association in 2014, ‘Green Hotel of the Year’ by the International Hotel Association in 2015, and ‘Best Marketing Campaign by a Large Hotel Chain’ by the Mark Award in 2016.
Best Season to Visit
The Okura Hotel Tokyo is open all year round. That being said, it may be best to visit in spring and autumn, as this is when the weather is most suitable for sightseeing. Autumn is also the time when you can experience the famous fall leaves in Tokyo. This is a spectacular sight, with the trees in and around Tokyo changing from green to red, orange, and yellow. As for the summer months, Tokyo is hot and humid all year round, so it is best to avoid this time of year if possible.
Rooms & Services Available
Facilities at the Okura Hotel Tokyo
The Okura Hotel has been built with the traveler in mind, and provides all the facilities needed for a comfortable stay. These include a state-of-the-art fitness center, several restaurants, and a luxurious spa. The hotel’s fitness center has the latest cardio and strength-training equipment, as well as squash and tennis courts. The hotel also offers a wide range of cultural activities and events, such as Japanese and English language courses, open-air concerts, and creative workshops. There is also a beautiful Japanese garden on the hotel grounds, which is open to the public. As for dining, the hotel’s restaurants offer everything from traditional Japanese cuisine to a wide range of Western dishes, with vegan and vegetarian options available. The hotel’s spa has a range of relaxing treatments, including Ayurvedic, Oriental, and Swedish massage, as well as facials and hair removal services.
The Okura Restaurant: A Truly Outstanding Dining
The Okura Hotel’s signature restaurant is situated on the ground floor of the hotel building, and specializes in French and Japanese cuisine. The restaurant was designed by Isamu Noguchi, a famous Japanese artist born in New York. The food and service at The Okura are unparalleled in Tokyo, and are enjoyed by tourists and locals alike. With its sweeping views of Tokyo and the Imperial Palace, The Okura restaurant is a wonderful place for a romantic meal with your partner. The restaurant has received a number of accolades over the years, including the ‘Three Star Michelin’ rating in both 1992 and 2018, as well as the ‘Three Star Golden Fork’ award in 2018. The restaurant also boasts a ‘15/20’ food score on the Zagat’s Tokyo Food Guide.
Getting there
The Okura Hotel Tokyo is located in the Ginza district of Tokyo, which is one of the city’s most central areas. The hotel is adjacent to the Ginza subway station, making it easy to get to and from, even at peak hours. There are also several bus routes that run through the Ginza district, which can be used to get to and from the hotel. As for traveling by car, there is a paid parking lot at the hotel, as well as car parks nearby.
Pros and cons of staying at the Okura Hotel in Tokyo
Pros Great location in central Tokyo Modern, luxurious rooms and facilities Wide selection of dining options Excellent service and staff Beautiful Japanese garden with streams and koi fish Beautifully designed building Cons May be expensive for some Traffic can be a problem in Tokyo May not be suitable for younger travelers The hotel’s high standard can come as a surprise to some, as it is often overshadowed by its close proximity to the neighboring grand shrines and temples. However, it’s definitely worth a visit, and makes for a wonderful stay in Tokyo. At the end of the day, the Okura Hotel is an exceptional hotel, and is an excellent place to stay when visiting Tokyo. It is conveniently located in the center of the city, and has all the necessary facilities and amenities for a comfortable stay. Moreover, it is known for its service and high standards of excellence, and is the perfect place for a special occasion. If you are traveling to Tokyo, this is the hotel to stay at.
Conclusion
The Okura Tokyo is a world-class hotel that offers its guests an exceptional experience. The staff is attentive and friendly, the rooms are comfortable and well-appointed, and the amenities are top-notch. The hotel is also conveniently located, making it easy to get around Tokyo. Overall, the Okura Tokyo is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a luxurious and relaxing stay in Japan's capital city.
