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Tokyo’s luxury hotel scene is littered with options, but the Mandarin Oriental, in the heart of Nihonbashi, is one of Tokyo’s finest with roots in the city’s history. Nihonbashi is where Tokyo began, a small neighborhood dating back centuries to a time when Tokyo was merely a village near the sea. But, today, the district is a business center and exclusive – offering fantastic restaurants, shopping and more for guests of this hotel to explore.
Soaring floors above ground level, the hotel itself doesn’t begin until your elevator floats well past floor 20. And, when you walk in, your mouth will drop. A gorgeous lobby outfitted with stunning wood and stone, views across the city to Mt. Fuji, and welcoming smiles from the team at the Mandarin Oriental. The service here is truly impeccable.
Inside the huge rooms with views of Tokyo, you’ll find every amenity you might need for a comfortable stay. Gorgeous beds, flat screens, marble baths and huge changing areas with closets. A welcome of fruit from Sembikiya-Sohonten, the fruit merchant downstairs that was started by a Samurai in 1843 – is a beautiful touch. The rooms also come with floor to ceiling windown with views of the city, and a pillow menu with over ten varieties of pillows to help you customize your sleep experience. I chose the horsehair with lavender, which is delivered warm in the evenings.
The Mandarin Oriental Tokyo offers a plethora of dining options, a few of my favorites being Sora Sushi, Sense Cantonese and The Pizza Bar of 38th.
The spa at the hotel is phenomenal. A large space with private treatment rooms, marble baths and a large glass pool with steam and sauna. The extensive spa menu offers Eastern and Western treatments.
I personally experienced the Oriental Essence which uses an infusion of invigorating essential oils, foot and leg massage and a light back massage to relieve your body after a long flight. The service was done inside of a suite in the spa with a tub filled with floating pink roses.
The therapist who worked with me during my treatment was kind, attentive and skilled – leading me to a relaxation room after my treatment to sip water, ginger tea and snack on dried fruits and nuts.
The Mandarin Oriental Tokyo is a respite, a haven in a chaotic city. Here, in the heart of historic Nihonbashi, you can truly let go and indulge in luxury with all of Tokyo at your front door. As special as Nihonbashi is, you will be amazed at the history her e- especially the ancient kimono and cutlery shops still in existence. You can find the Mandarin Oriental concierge’s guide to the areas shopping here. Don’t miss this hotel experience.
