Stay & Play

Hoshinoya Tokyo – An Experience for the Senses

Article & Photography by Steve Gillick

An oasis of tranquility lies amidst the Western-style hotels that proliferate in Tokyo. On July 20, 2016, Hoshinoya Tokyo, named after CEO Yoshiharu Hoshino, opened its doors with the goal of recapturing the ‘ryokan’ spirit of Japanese accommodation, but also to respond to the need for guests to relax, pamper their senses, and experience an atmosphere of soothing tranquility.

The city of Tokyo is usually deemed to be the destination, but Hoshinoya has turned this model around to make the Ryokan (a traditional Japanese inn) the destination, thereby allowing visitors to truly engage with Japanese culture.

The experience begins as you approach the 17-floor building, located only steps from the grounds of the Imperial Palace. A metal kimono-design lattice adorns the outside of the structure, designed by architect Rie Azuma, conveying tradition, elegance and the anticipation of something very special. Upon entering the building the fresh, country smell of the tatami (straw) mats is intoxicating. You remove your shoes and proceed on tatami mats toward the elevator while a delicate soundtrack conveys calmness and serenity with light percussion taps and delicate, falling drops of water. You are escorted to the 8th floor where in the informality of the Ochanoma or family room, registration takes place while tea and sweet cake is served.

There are six rooms per floor, one large double-sized corner room and 5 smaller rooms—each decorated in soothing, ambiant colours. The emphasis is on the elements: customized wood furniture (cypress, chestnut and bamboo), customized paper wall coverings, shoji screens, and rocks outside the shower room that includes a large Japanese soaking tub.

The kimonos—used to walk throughout the ryokan and visit the roof-top onsen or hot spring, were designed by Jotaro Saito a master Kimono maker. The cloud-soft mattresses were specially designed for absolute comfort, as were the pillows and even the pyjamas that are provided for each guest.

At 5:00 pm we’re invited to the Ochanoma to enjoy a seasonal selection of sake and wine. At 10:00 pm, just before our second visit to the hot spring, we had a private sleep-breathing class and without doubt, our night at the Hoshinoya turned out to be one of the best sleeps…ever!

A traditional Japanese breakfast served in the room was a culinary delight and a perfect way to end our stay.

Hoshinoya is super-luxury accommodation, ideally suited to the traveller who is looking for an extraordinary cultural experience with the emphasizes on tranquility and calm. For those who seek to connect with a destination and instill lasting memories throughout the process, this is the place to stay when in Tokyo.

www.hoshinoyatokyo.com/en