One of the ways we treat ourselves as a couple during our travels is to find luxury, 5-star properties that transport us to another world. Since getting a break from work feels like a luxury in itself, finding a luxurious property elevates our time out of office! When looking for where to stay in Tokyo for a luxury experience, The Peninsula Tokyo delivered on all fronts!
THE PENINSULA TOKYO LOCATION
The hotel is located in the Marunouchi district, which is walking distance from the famed Ginza shopping district as well as opposite the Imperial Palace and Hibiya Park. Views from the room include gorgeous gardens or glimpses of the wonderful Tokyo skyline. A taxi is available at a moments notice and the hotel can arrange for transportation via one of their luxury fleet vehicles including two Rolls-Royce Phantoms or ride in style in their fully restored 1934 vintage Rolls-Royce Phantom II! The location makes it a convenient base to explore the Tokyo tourist attractions.
LOBBY OF THE PENINSULA TOKYO
First impressions are everything. One step into the opulent lobby and you will begin to understand why Travel & Leisure named The Peninsula Tokyo one of the Best Hotels in Tokyo for 2017. The lobby decor is quite sophisticated including a massive chandelier reminiscent of a firework and signature pieces of art throughout. During the day, there are various musical performances to elevate the lobby experience.
The lobby has a full-service bar and restaurant serving craft cocktails and international cuisine. A special feature offered is an afternoon tea with changing themes throughout the year. It is such a treat to experience and you don’t have to be a guest at the hotel to indulge! Be sure to make reservations online in advance as most days are fully booked.
THE ROOMS AT THE PENINSULA TOKYO
We stayed in a deluxe suite with garden views. At 1,253 sq feet, it is hands down the largest room we have experienced in a major city. Space is certainly a luxury in the world’s top cities and the room sizes at The Peninsula Tokyo are certainly deserving of 5-stars!
Upon entry to the room, a wide walkway guides you to the main living area. There is a desk and plenty of cabinet space provided for all of your possessions. It felt as though we were staying in an apartment versus a hotel room. Your eyes will quickly be drawn to the expansive living area complete with two couches, dining room table, floor to ceiling windows for panoramic views, TV, coffee/espresso maker and refrigerator. We instantly knew this was the best place to stay in Tokyo as we entered.
One of our favorite features was the telescope provided to look out into the gardens below. The living area was extremely spacious for two people. After we peeled our eyes away from the room and outside view, we made our way to the bedroom. Let me just say that I have complete closet envy after staying at this property. There is an incredible amount of closet space and a vanity in the large space. The bedroom had a comfortable king bed with amazingly soft bedding. We loved having a separated bedroom and seated area, certainly a luxury amenity we look for in 5-star properties.
The bathroom contained double sinks (if you are new here you know this is a must for us to love the property). The bathroom was wonderfully decorated with marble and high-end fixtures. The centerpiece was an expansive tub with spa-like features such as lighting options, spa music on demand and various bath amenities. The shower was spacious and the toilet was the classic Japanese style with heated seat and shooting water options. The spa tub alone make this one of the best hotels in Tokyo!
The provided robes were luscious! We enjoyed having our coffee (or mimosas) each morning in the brightly lit living area.
When a room gives you design ideas for your own home, you know you are experiencing true luxury. Our dream home has elements inspired by these panoramic windows, large bathtub, and expansive closet/vanity. Well done Peninsula!
THE FOOD AT THE PENINSULA TOKYO
There are several dining options on-site of the property including Michelin starred Kyoto Tsuruya which serves traditional Kaiseki cuisine. We highly recommend experiencing this multi-course dining option during your visit to Tokyo. It’s one of our top things to add to your Tokyo itinerary. There are also options for sophisticated Cantonese cuisine at Fung Terrace and more casual options in The Lobby and their boutique & cafe. Finally, our favorite was to experience cocktails and dinner at Peter: The Bar followed by Peter. Located on the 24th floor, this brightly lit area offers unique cocktails with sweeping views of the city and gardens.
The restaurants are open to outside hotel guests but trust us, you want to stay here! Even if you are not staying at the Peninsula, at Peter to your Tokyo places to visit list.
THE SPA & POOL
Another key feature for us when choosing where to stay in Tokyo was to have a pool to relax. The Peninsula offers an Olympic sized pool, extra large jacuzzi with sweeping views of the city! It’s the perfect trifecta for relaxation.
The service is impeccable with chairs quickly set-up for your comfort and bottled water provided. Just as a word of caution, you will be required to wear a swim cap if you go into the pool, The Peninsula Toyko is dedicated to cleanliness. It is not needed in the jacuzzi, assuming you’ll keep your head above water. We enjoyed visiting the pool in the early evening as the sun was setting. Watching the warm orange glow of the setting sun while relaxing in the jacuzzi was truly a romantic experience!
SERVICE AT TOKYO 5 STAR HOTELS
Lastly, we cannot end without mentioning the 5-star service at this property. Everyone was extremely attentive to our needs and questions. We were celebrating Brian’s Birthday and they were kind enough to provide us with a cake and champagne to celebrate, an amenity that you typically find at Tokyo luxury hotels.
Having a relaxing spot to unwind after a day of heavy sightseeing before we left for dinner was a true luxury. It was such a special moment that we shared and a birthday that won’t soon be forgotten!
Overall we sing very high praises to The Peninsula Tokyo. In our opinion, it’s one of the best places in Tokyo. The price tag may seem steep but the opulence and luxury we experienced will not soon be topped. We highly recommend at least enjoying a couple nights here during your next trip to Tokyo. For us, this sets the bar for 5-star service and experience. We can’t wait to return!