During my last business trip to Tokyo, I had the privilege of staying one night at The Capitol Hotel Tokyu, which is conveniently located near the Tokyo National Diet Building. This upscale hotel boasts a prime city-center location, and it’s just a 10-minute walk from the Imperial Palace. In the mornings, you can enjoy a leisurely jog around the protective moat surrounding the palace.
The grand reception lobby of this newly completed hotel features soaring ceilings adorned with traditional architectural elements known as “斗拱” (dougong). However, the true marvel lies in the clever design of the “lantern skylight”—crafted from wooden frames and adorned with delicate Japanese paper. As guests look upward, the interior light gently filters through the paper, creating an exceptionally soft and serene ambiance.
It’s no surprise that renowned architect Kengo Kuma has employed his signature style in the design of the wooden lattice roof at The Capitol Hotel Tokyu. This intricate roof, constructed by layering wooden frames, seamlessly blends the aesthetics of Zen tranquility with modern sophistication.
The soaring central atrium, with its semi-transparent design, draws inspiration from the delicate structure of traditional Japanese paper lanterns. Imagine standing beneath this luminous space, where modern architecture pays homage to timeless craftsmanship.
Notably situated right next to the hotel, the Hie Shrine awaits your early morning pilgrimage after a hearty breakfast. This Tokyo gem is a must-visit, steeped in tradition and spiritual significance.
At this modern hotel, the fusion of building, gardens, and woodlands creates a harmonious whole. The art of Ikenobo Ikebana, Japan’s traditional flower arranging, brings the seasons to life within the space. Each bloom tells a story, reflecting the passing months.
As you step into the entrance, the act of praying at the Hie Shrine creates a seamless blend between the hotel and the sacred space. It’s a clever design that momentarily whisks you away from the bustling city noise.
Harmonizing with the Outdoor Bamboo Grove: A Natural Symphony Unfolds.
You’ll be greeted by a serene blend of traditional Japanese elements: delicate wooden lattice screens (細木障子) and shoji paper sliding doors (和紙拉門). The interior design of these rooms beautifully incorporates handcrafted washi paper, whose colors harmonize with the warm tones of the abundant natural wood materials used throughout.
As I enter the spacious rooms with floor-to-ceiling windows, memories of Kimura Takuya and Abe Hiroshi from the Japanese drama Change come flooding back. And the cherry on top?
Imagine the convenience and view of being right at the heart of Tokyo!
Imagine sinking into these enveloping sofa chairs, where even scrolling through your phone feels like a luxurious escape. This top-tier hotel is beloved by many for seamlessly combining business convenience with vacation vibes.
In a city where every inch counts, a 71-square-meter room at The Capitol Hotel Tokyu is the epitome of luxury. Step inside to discover a soothing palette of earthy tones—warm beige wallpaper complemented by rich coffee-colored carpets. It’s a celebration of natural simplicity, inviting you to unwind and savor the spaciousness.
The hotel’s design is infused with abundant inspiration from Japanese aesthetics. And it’s not just in the architecture—when you indulge in the traditional wagashi confections provided by the hotel, you’ll discover a newfound sense of wonder.
Imagine a space where refinement meets the brilliance of Japanese artists. Here, the essence of Zen tranquility comes alive.
Imagine gazing out from the rooms on the 18th to 29th floors, where the vast expanse of Tokyo’s skyline stretches endlessly. It’s a breathtaking panorama that captures the essence of this vibrant city.
Imagine stepping into a bathroom so spacious it rivals a small suite. It exudes an aura of deep relaxation, Zen tranquility, and perfect harmony.
THÉMAÉ, a prestigious bath product brand hailing from Paris, curates exquisite bath gift sets for discerning business travelers. Their hallmark? The use of pure tea extracts. Imagine indulging in the essence of tea during your bath—a sensory journey that transcends mere relaxation.
Guillaume Lefèvre, both founder and CEO, shares a passion for tea. His global travels take him to various tea plantations, where he draws inspiration. The result? A cutting-edge bath collection harnessing the power of tea polyphenols. Imagine immersing yourself in the rejuvenating essence of tea during your bath—a blend of tradition and technology.
Imagine stepping into a room where ample space awaits for your belongings—clothes, luggage, and plush bathrobes. The understated elegance of the deep-colored marble adds a touch of sophistication.
Stepping into a bathroom where the bathtub seamlessly blends with the floor, all made from exquisite dark gray granite. It’s a luxurious touch that elevates your bathing experience.
Not only does the hotel provide these stunning sakura-infused bath salts, but their delicate blush pink hue is too elegant to part with. Imagine indulging in a bath that captures the essence of cherry blossoms—a moment of pure luxury.
Whenever you visit Tokyo, except during the summer, hotel rooms are invariably equipped with air purifiers and humidifiers.
Who would have thought that amidst the bustling Tokyo, a haven of quietude and refined comfort awaits? Catering to discerning guests, the hotel meticulously safeguards personal privacy.
It’s a place that has welcomed numerous overseas luminaries—a haven where impeccable service meets the pinnacle of Japanese hospitality.
Late at night, I indulged in a plateful of salad drizzled with olive oil and vinegar. It’s a wholesome blend of fresh vegetables, brimming with nutrients.
Accompanied by a bowl of pumpkin soup, oh my! How can pumpkin soup be this delicious, smooth, and sweet? After sipping it, my stomach feels warm, and drowsiness sets in.~
The hotel is conveniently linked to Tameike-Sannō Station and Kokkai-gijidō-mae Station, providing direct access to multiple subway lines.
Whether you’re headed to Ginza, Roppongi, Shinjuku, or Shibuya, the underground Chiyoda Line (Kokkai-gijidō-mae Station, Exit 6), Marunouchi Line (Kokkai-gijidō-mae Station), and Namboku Line (Tameike-sannō Station, Exit 6) are at your service. Plus, a subterranean passage connects you seamlessly to these stations.
