Читать книгу Tokyo New City Guide - Mayumi Yoshida Barakan - Страница 10
ОглавлениеACCOMMODATION
Your hotel in Tokyo is about the only place where you'll get away from the city's nearly twelve million inhabitants. Obviously, this should be a subject for serious consideration. Unless you have a friend or relative in town, your choices will fall into four main categories: major hotels, business hotels, Japanese-style lodgings, and hostels.
Which category you choose will most likely be a matter of budget. Your second criterion should be convenience to where you'll be doing most of your work or play. Equally important is accessibility to public transport. The train and subway systems are so efficient that even if you don't mind paying for a taxi, public transport can save you time. If you're a "night person," consider staying in a hotel close to one of the night life districts. During the day you can travel by transit system, but after midnight the trains and subways go home to rest and you're left with your legs or taxis with a thirty percent surcharge after 1 1:00 P.M.
HOTELS
We have selected what we consider the best of the major and business hotels, then divided them by districts. Best is defined here as good quality and service for the price, convenience, and accessibility to public transport. A list of "other" second choice hotels is supplied in the event that our recommended hotels are booked up. All hotels are safe and clean. Most provide cotton yukata robes. Distance on foot to the nearest station has been noted. Rates listed are basic room charges (tax inclusive prices have been noted). In addition, you will pay a service charge of ten to fifteen percent and taxes that run around thirteen percent. In mid-February when the university entrance exams are held in Tokyo, it is almost impossible to find a room—book early.
Major Hotels—Like anywhere in the world, these range from first class to not particularly distinguished. Price is usually a good indication of quality. The number of rooms has not been noted, but most are large. According to most surveys, the three best hotels in Tokyo are the Okura, the Imperial, and the Capitol Tokyu.
Business Hotels—Theoretically for the "businessman," these are relatively low-priced hotels with minimal but efficient service. Most hotels with singles under ¥12,000 fall into this category. Rooms are generally quite small and rather Spartan. Bathrooms are strictly utilitarian molded-in-one-piece units. Televisions are usually provided, though sometimes they're coin-operated with extra-charge "adult" video channels.
Ginza—Shimbashi—Hibiya
IMPERIAL HOTEL—In Japanese called the "Teikoku Hotel." Established in 1980, new tower completed in 1983. Considered one of the best, but some feel it is too big and impersonal. Good location, best views of Imperial Palace are from upper floors in the new tower.
1-1-1 Uchisaiwai-cho, Chiyoda-ku. Tel: 3504-1 111. Fax: 3581-9146.
Rates: Sgl. from ¥30,000, Dbl. from ¥34,000.
—Swimming pool, executive salon, good shopping arcade, excellent restaurants, two minutes from Hibiya and Yurakucho Stations. [M-10]
HOTEL SEIYO GINZA—Without a doubt this late-eighties hotel offers the ultimate in Tokyo luxury—at a price few are willing to pay. Sophisticated, elegant, and discreet, there is no reception desk but "personal secretaries" who pamper you from check in throughout your stay.
1-11-2 Ginza, Chuo-ku. Tel: 3535-1 111. Fax: 3535-1110.
Rates: Sgl. from ¥40,000, Dbl. from ¥48,000.
—Excellent but pricey restaurants, health facilities, business center. Two minutes from Kyobashi and Ginza Itchome Stations. [M-8]
GINZA DAI-ICHI HOTEL—Respected business hotel.
8-13-1 Ginza, Chuo-ku. Tel: 3542-5311. Fax: 3542-3030.
Rates: Sgl. from ¥17,000, Dbl. from ¥24,000.
—Five minutes from Shimbashi Station. [M-8]
GINZA TOBU HOTEL—Opened in 1987, it is very convenient and the rooms are relatively spacious (largest are those on the concierge floor).
6-14-10 Ginza, Chuo-ku. Tel: 3546-0111. Fax: 3546-8990.
Rates: Sgl. from ¥16,000, Dbl. from ¥ 30,000.
—One minute from Higashi Ginza Station. [M-8]
MITSUI URBAN HOTEL GINZA—Mitsui Urban chain hotel. Has a very good reputation. Typical small rooms but very convenient.
8-6-15 Ginza, Chuo-ku. Tel: 3572-4131. Fax: 3572-4254.
Rates: Sgl. from ¥11,800, Dbl. from ¥17,500.
—One minute from Shimbashi Station. [M-8]
HOTEL ATAMISO—Formerly a ryokan, opened as a Western-style hotel in 1984. Rooms often a curious blend of Japanese and Western styles.
4-14-3 Ginza, Chuo-ku. Tel: 3541-3621. Fax: 3541-3262.
Rates: Sgl. from ¥9,403, Twin from ¥18,354, Japanese style from ¥19,374 double occupancy, Japanese and Western-style ¥18,241 (incl. tax).
—Two minutes from Higashi Ginza Station. [M-8]
SHIMBASHI DAI-ICHI HOTEL—Newly reconstructed hotel with excellent services for business-people.
1-2-6 Shimbashi, Minato-ku. Tel: 3501-4411. Fax: 3595-2634.
Rates: Twin from ¥34,000, Dbl. from ¥30,000.
—Three minutes from Shimbashi Station. [M-11]
• Other Hotels
GINZA TOKYU HOTEL
5-15-9 Ginza, Chuo-ku. Tel: 3541-2411. Fax: 3541-6622.
Rates: Sgl. from ¥16,800, Dbl. from ¥26,800, Japanese style: ¥42,000.
—One minute from Higashi Ginza Station. Close to the Kabuki-za. [M-8]
KYOBASHI KAIKAN
—Inexpensive business hotel with good service and convenient location for the price; best to book one month in advance.
1-26-1 Ginza, Chuo-ku. Tel: 3564-0888. Fax: 3561-8080.
Rates: Sgl. from ¥6,500, Twin from ¥11,000. Japanese-style ¥27,500 five persons per room.
—Indoor swimming pool, three minutes from Kyobashi, five minutes from Ginza Itchome Stations. [M-8]
GINZA MARUNOUCHI HOTEL
8-13-1 Ginza, Chuo-ku. Tel: 3543-5431. Fax: 3543-6006.
Rates: Sgl. from ¥17,000, Dbl. from ¥24,000.
—Two minutes from Higashi Ginza Station. [M-22]
GINZA NIKKO HOTEL
8-4-21 Ginza, Chuo-ku. Tel: 3571-4911. Fax: 3571-8379.
Rates: Sgl. from ¥15,742, Dbl. from ¥30,316 (incl. tax).
—Four minutes from Shimbashi Station. [M-8]
Tokyo—Marunouchi
PALACE HOTEL—Quiet and subdued atmosphere, ask for a room overlooking the Imperial Palace moats and gardens.
1-1-1 Marunouchi, Chiyoda-ku. Tel: 3211-5211. Fax:3211-6987.
Rates: Sgl. from ¥20,000, Dbl. from ¥30,000.
—Three minutes from Otemachi and seven minutes from Tokyo Station. [M-10]
YAESU EUJIYA HOTEL—Good, basic hotel.
2-9-1 Yaesu, Chuo-ku. Tel: 3273-2111. Fax: 3273-2180.
Rates: Sgl. from ¥12,100, Dbl. from ¥16,500.
—Two minutes from Tokyo Station. [M-9]
HOTEL KOKUSAI KANKO
1-8-3 Marunouchi, Chiyoda-ku. Tel: 3215-3281. Fax: 3215-3186.
Rates: Sgl. from ¥13,500, Dbl. from ¥20,500.
—One minute from Tokyo Station. [M-9]
TOKYO STATION HOTEL—Built in 1915 at the same time as Tokyo Station itself.
1-9-1 Marunouchi, Chiyoda-ku. Tel: 3231-2511. Fax: 3231-3513.
Rates: Sgl. from ¥8,720 (w/o bath), Dbl. from ¥19,000 (w/o bath).
—Above Tokyo Station. [M-10]
• Other Hotels
TOKYO MARUNOUCHI HOTEL
1-6-3 Marunouchi, Chiyoda-ku. Tel: 3215-2151. Fax: 3215-8036.
Rates: Sgl. from ¥15,000, Dbl. from ¥24,000.
—Five minutes from Tokyo Station. [M-10]
TOKYO CITY HOTEL
1-5-4 Nihombashi Honcho, Chuo-ku. Tel: 3270-7671. Fax: 3270-8930.
Rates: Sgl. from ¥7,004, Dbl. from ¥18,015 (incl. tax).
—Two minutes from Mitsukoshi-mae Station, five minutes by taxi from Tokyo City Air Terminal. [M-9]
Akasaka—Nagatacho
CAPITOL TOKYU HOTEL—Formerly the Tokyo Hilton. Comfortable and relaxing atmosphere, the interiors are a blend of Japanese and Western design.
2-10-3 Nagatacho, Chiyoda-ku. Tel: 3581-4511. Fax: 3581-5822.
Rates: Sgl. from ¥24,500, Dbl. from ¥33,000, Japanese-style: ¥80,000.
—Outdoor pool, excellent restaurants, two minutes from Kokkaigijido-mae Station. [M-6]
HOTEL NEW OTANI—One of the largest hotels in Asia. A new tower and old building combined in a sprawling and somewhat confusing fashion.
4-1 Kioi-cho, Chiyoda-ku. Tel: 3265-1111. Fax: 3221-2619.
Rates: Sgl. from Y24,000, Dbl. from ¥31,500.
—Four-hundred-year-old Japanese garden, health facilities, rooms for women only and handicapped, twenty-four-hour child-care, four minutes from Akasaka-mitsuke Station. [M-6]
AKASAKA PRINCE HOTEL—Prince chain hotel. New Tange Kenzo building opened in March 1983. Ultra-modern, some say "cold" interior.
1-2 Kioi-cho, Chiyoda-ku. Tel: 3234-1111. Fax: 3262-5163.
Rates: Sgl. from ¥23,000, Dbl. from ¥34,000, Japanese-style from ¥85,000.
—Rooms have great views. Executive salon. Four minutes from Akasaka-mitsuke Station. [M-6]
ANA HOTEL TOKYO—"Zen-Nikku Hotel." In the center of a recent development complex, the busy and noisy lobby feels not unlike a shopping mall. Convenient location.
1-12-33 Akasaka, Minato-ku. Tel: 3505-1 111. Fax: 3505-1155.
Rates: Sgl. from ¥21,000, Dbl. from ¥29,000.
—Gym, outdoor pool, ten minutes from Roppongi or Toranomon Stations. [M-11]
HOTEL KAYU KAIKAN—Hotel Okura chain. Nice and quiet, smaller hotel.
8-1 Sanban-cho, Chiyoda-ku. Tel: 3230-1111. Fax: 3230-2529.
Rates: Sgl. from ¥12,000, Dbl. from ¥16,000, Japanese-style ¥20,000.
—Five minutes from Hanzomon Station. [M-17]
DIAMOND HOTEL—Good central location in quiet residential area.
25 Ichiban-cho, Chiyoda-ku. Tel: 3262-2211. Fax:3263-2222.
Rates: Sgl. from ¥11,660, Dbl. from ¥16,428 (incl. tax).
Diamond Hotel Annex: Sgl. from ¥10,000, Dbl. from ¥14,500.
—One minute from Hanzomon Station. [M-6]
HOTEL YOKO AKASAKA
6-14-12 Akasaka, Minato-ku. Tel: 3586-4050. Fax: 3586-5944.
Rates: Sgl. from ¥8,500, Twin from ¥15,000.
—Four minutes from Akasaka Station. [M-6]
Roppongi—Toranomon—Shiba
HOTEL OKURA—One of the most highly-rated hotels in the world, its quiet Japanese elegance and efficiency is impressive. Best rooms are in main building overlooking inner garden.
2-10-4 Toranomon, Minato-ku. Tel: 3582-0111. Fax: 3582-3707.
Rates: Sgl. from ¥27,500, Dbl. from ¥37,500, Japanese-style from ¥38,000.
—Full health facilities, executive salon, excellent restaurants, five to seven minutes from Kamiyacho and Toranomon Stations. [M-11]
TOKYO PRINCE HOTEL—Prince chain hotel. Located next to Zojo-ji temple. Large but comfortable-quality hotel that's starting to show its age.
3-3-1 Shiba-koen, Minato-ku. Tel: 3432-1111. Fax: 3434-5551.
Rates: Sgl. from ¥23,000, Dbl. from ¥24,000.
—Swimming pool (summer only), three minutes from Onarimon and six minutes from Kamiyacho Stations. [M-11]
SHIBA PARK HOTEL—Pleasant smaller hotel.
1-5-10 Shiba-koen, Minato-ku. Tel: 3433-4141. Fax: 5470-7519.
Rates: Sgl. from ¥14,000, Dbl. from ¥20,000.
—Three minutes from Onarimon Station. [M-11]
ROPPONGI PRINCE HOTEL—Designed by Kurokawa Kisho, a glass-sided swimming pool forms the focal point of the central court and the stares of visiting businessmen.
3-2-7 Roppongi, Minato-ku. Tel: 3587-1111. Fax: 3587-0770.
Rates: Sgl. from ¥19,500, Dbl. from ¥23,500.
—Swimming pool, five minutes from Roppongi Station [M-1]
• Other Hotels
TOKYO GRAND HOTEL
2-5-3 Shiba, Minato-ku. Tel: 3456-2222. Fax: 3454-1022.
Rates: Sgl. from ¥14,574, Dbl. from ¥18,128 (incl. tax).
—Two minutes from Shiba-koen Station. [M-11]
HOTEL IBIS
7-14-4 Roppongi, Minato-ku. Tel: 3403-4411. Fax: 3479-0609.
Rates: Sgl. from ¥13,000, Dbl. from ¥19,500.
—One minute from Roppongi station. [M-1]
SHIBA YAYOI KAIKAN
1-10-27 Kaigan, Minato-ku. Tel: 3434-6841. Fax: 3432-2505.
Rates: Sgl. from ¥5,700, Twin from ¥9,100.
—Older hotel on the waterfront, seven minutes from Hamamatsu-cho Station. [M-11]
Shibuya—Harajuku—Aoyama
THE PRESIDENT HOTEL AOYAMA—One of the best medium-priced hotels in town. Extremely convenient, efficiently small rooms have been described as "like a kit."
2-2-3 Minami Aoyama, Minato-ku. Tel: 3497-0111. Fax: 3401-4816.
Rates: Sgl. from ¥11,000, Dbl. from ¥16,000.
—One minute from Aoyama Itchome Station. [M-5]
SHIBUYA TOBU HOTEL—In the middle of the Shibuya shopping area.
3-1 Udagawa-cho, Shibuya-ku. Tel: 3476-0111. Fax: 3476-0903.
Rates: Sgl. from ¥12,826, Dbl. from ¥16,995 (incl. tax).
—Six minutes from Shibuya Station. [M-3]
CRESTON HOTEL—Business hotel, somewhat inconvenient but well-equipped for business.
10-8 Kamiyama-cho, Shibuya-ku. Tel: 3481-5800. Fax: 3481-5515.
Rates: Sgl. from ¥12,000, Dbl. from ¥18,000.
—Ten minutes from Shibuya Station. [M-3]
ASIA CENTER OF JAPAN—A cross between a business hotel and student lodgings, this is one of the best deals in town.
8-10-32 Akasaka, Minato-ku. Tel: 3402-6111. Fax: 3402-0738.
Rates: Sgl. w/o bath ¥4,500, w/bath ¥5,400, Dbl. w/o bath ¥6,000, w/bath ¥9,120.
—Five minutes from Aoyama Itchome, eight minutes from Roppongi Stations. [M-5]
• Other Hotels
HILLPORT HOTEL
23-19 Sakuragaoka, Shibuya-ku. Tel: 3462-5171. Fax: 3496-2066.
Rates: Sgl. from ¥9,700, Twin ¥15,600, Japanese-style ¥37,000.
—Four minutes from Shibuya Station. [M-3]
SHIBUYA SUNROUTE
1-11 Nampeidai-cho, Shibuya-ku. Tel: 3464-6411. Fax: 3464-1678.
Rates: Sgl. from ¥6,911, Dbl. from ¥13,821 (incl. tax).
—Five minutes from Shibuya Station, [off Map]
HOTEL HARAJUKU TRIMM
6-28-6 Jingumae, Shibuya-ku. Tel: 3498-2101. Fax: 3498-1777.
Rates: Sgl. from ¥7,700, Twin from ¥12,200. No credit cards/foreign exchange.
—Sports facilities, three minutes from Harajuku or Meiji-Jingumae Stations. [M-4]
NIHON SEINENKAN
15 Kasumigaoka-machi, Shibuya-ku. Tel: 3401-0101. Fax: 3404-0611.
Rates: Twin from ¥6,100 per person.
—Ten minutes from Sendagaya Station. [M-5]
Shinjuku
TOKYO HILTON HOTEL—Standard Hilton Hotel. If you must stay in Shinjuku, this is perhaps the best choice.
6-6-2 Nishi Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku. Tel: 3344-5111. Fax: 3342-6094.
Rates: Sgl. from ¥26,000, Dbl. from ¥32,000, Japanese-style from ¥55,000.
—Executive salon, good sports facilities, eight minutes from Shinjuku Station. [M-7]
KEIO PLAZA HOTEL—An undistinguished forty-five-story concrete and glass skyscraper. Interiors are more of the same.
2-2-1 Nishi Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku. Tel: 3344-0111. Fax: 3345-82-69.
Rates: Sgl. from ¥21,000, Dbl. from ¥26,000, Japanese style ¥70,000.
—Health facilities, executive salon, six minutes from Shinjuku Station. [M-7]
HOTEL CENTURY HYATT—Another monolithic Shinjuku hotel, average service and interior.
2-7-2 Nishi Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku. Tel: 3349-0111. Fax: 3344-5575.
Rates: Sgl. from ¥21,000, Dbl. from ¥30,000, Japanese style ¥60,000.
—Good sports facilities, discotheque, nine minutes from Shinjuku Station. [M-7]
PARK HYATT TOKYO—Luxury hotel occupying the top fourteen floors of Tange Kenzo's fifty-two story Shinjuku Park Tower. Just 178 rooms, but each equipped with fax, CD, laser disc, etc., and breathtaking contemporary design. The New York Grill, on the top floor, offers a panoramic view of the city.
3-7-1-2 Nishi Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku. Tel: 5322-1234. Fax: 5322-1288.
Rates: Sgl. from ¥36,000, Dbl. from ¥41,000.
—Ten minutes from Shinjuku Station, [off Map]
HOTEL SUNROUTE TOKYO—Sunroute Chain Hotel.
2-3-1 Yoyogi, Shibuya-ku. Tel: 3375-3211. Fax: 3379-8757.
Rates: Sgl. from ¥11,310, Dbl. from ¥15,862 (incl. tax).
—Two minutes from Shinjuku Station. [M-7]
WASHINGTON HOTEL—High-tech eighties hotel with computerized check in and human clerks to show you how to use it.
3-2-9 Nishi Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku. Tel: 3343-3111. Fax: 3340-1804.
Rates: Sgl. from ¥11,024, Dbl. from ¥16,480 (incl. tax). No foreign exchange, accepts Visa.
—Eight minutes from Shinjuku Station. [M-7]
• Other Hotels
SHINJUKU PRINCE HOTEL
1-30-1 Kabukicho, Shinjuku-ku. Tel: 3205-1111. Fax: 3205-1952.
Rates: Sgl. from ¥13,500, Dbl. from ¥15,000.
—Five minutes from Shinjuku Station. [M-7]
HOTEL RISTEL SHINJUKU
5-3-20 Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku. Tel: 3350-0123. Fax: 3350-0444.
Rates: Sgl. from ¥8,000, Dbl. from ¥15,000.
—Five minutes from Shinjuku Cyoen Station. [M-7]
Ikebukuro—Mejiro
FOUR SEASONS HOTEL CHINZAN-SO TOKYO—Opened in 1992, this Tokyo branch of the famous Four Seasons Hotel is located on the grounds of the beautiful Chinzan-so Gardens. A bit inconvenient to the central city, it is beautifully designed and elegantly discreet.
2-10-8 Sekiguchi, Bunkyo-ku. Tel: 3943-2222. Fax: 3943-0909.
Rates: Sgl. from ¥20,000, Dbl. from ¥33,000, Japanese-style ¥36,000 for one, ¥40,000 for two.
—Luxurious health club with swimming pool, saunas, beauty center, etc., ten minutes from Edogawa-bashi Station, eight minutes by car from Mejiro Station, [off Map]
SUNSHINE CITY PRINCE HOTEL—Prince Hotel chain. Linked to the Sunshine City building, huge and rather impersonal.
3-1-5 Higashi Ikebukuro, Toshima-ku. Tel: 3988-1111. Fax: 3988-7878.
Rates: Sgl. from ¥13,000, Dbl. from ¥20,000.
—Ten minutes from Ikebukuro Station. [M-18]
HOTEL METROPOLITAN—A newer hotel trying to bring a touch of elegance to Ikebukuro.
1-6-1 Nishi Ikebukuro, Toshima-ku. Tel: 3980-1 111. Fax: 3980-5600.
Rates: Sgl. from ¥14,000, Dbl. from ¥18,500.
—Three minutes from Ikebukuro Station. [M-18]
• Other Hotels
IKEBUKURO CENTER CITY HOTEL
2-62-14 Ikebukuro, Toshima-ku. Tel: 3985-1311. Fax: 3980-7001.
Rates: Sgl. from ¥5,500, Dbl. from ¥9,500.
—Four minutes from Ikebukuro Station. [M-18]
Shinagawa
TAKANAWA PRINCE HOTEL—Prince Hotel chain. Considered discreetly elegant by the Japanese. Quiet atmosphere, lovely garden.
3-13-1 Takanawa, Minato-ku. Tel: 3447-1111. Fax: 3446-0849.
Rates: Sgl. from ¥19,000, Dbl. from ¥23,000, Japanese-style from ¥44,000.
—Swimming pool (summer only), ten minutes from Shinagawa Station. [M-36]
NEW TAKANAWA PRINCE HOTEL—Recent addition to the Takanawa Prince.
3-13-1 Takanawa, Minato-ku. Tel: 3442-1 111. Fax:3444-1234.
Rates: Sgl. from ¥20,000, Dbl. from ¥27,000.
—All rooms have a private balcony, swimming pool (summer only), five minutes from Shinagawa Station. [M-36]
SHINAGAWA PRINCE HOTEL—Prince Hotel chain. This hotel adjoins a sports center that includes tennis courts and bowling facilities. A new thirty-nine story annex, with 1,736 rooms, dwarfs the original building now.
4-10-30 Takanawa, Minato-ku. Tel: 3440-1 111. Fax: 3441-7092.
Rates: Sgl. from ¥8,400, Dbl. from ¥13,000.
—Five minutes from Shinagawa Station. [M-36]
TAKANAWA KEIKYU HOTEL—Convenient, new business hotel.
4-10-8 Takanawa, Minato-ku. Tel: 3443-1211. Fax: 3443-1221.
Rates: Sgl. from ¥10,000, Dbl. from ¥14,000.
—Two minutes from Shinagawa Station. [M-36]
• Other Hotels
HOTEL PACIFIC
3-13-3 Takanawa, Minato-ku. Tel: 3445-6711. Fax: 3445-5137.
Rates: Sgl. from ¥20,500, Dbl. from ¥23,000.
—Five minutes from Shinagawa Station. [M-36]
KEIHIN HOTEL
4-10-20 Takanawa, Minato-ku. Tel: 3449-5711. Fax: 3441-7230.
Rates: Sgl. from ¥8,415, Dbl. from ¥14,300.
—One minute from Shinagawa Station. [M-36]
HOTEL SANJOEN
2-23 Kami-osaki, Shinagawa-ku. Tel: 3779-1010. Fax: 3779-4070.
Rates: Sgl. from ¥10,000, Dbl. from ¥18,000.
—Two minutes from Meguro Station. [M-19]
NEW OTANI INN TOKYO
1-6-2 Osaki, Shinagawa-ku. Tel: 3779-9111. Fax: 3779-9181.
Rates: Sgl. from ¥13,000, Dbl. from ¥27,000.
—One minute from Osaki Station, [off Map]
Meguro—Ebisu
MIYAKO HOTEL TOKYO—Affiliated with the famous Miyako Hotel in Kyoto, not particularly convenient but quiet and nice.
1-1-50 Shiroganedai, Minato-ku. Tel: 3447-3111. Fax: 3447-3133.
Rates: Sgl. from ¥18,000, Dbl. from ¥23,000, Japanese-style ¥22,000.
—Health facilities, twenty minutes from Meguro Station. [M-19]
THE WESTIN TOKYO—Newly opened in Yebisu Garden Place. Classical European-style interiors, big rooms with high ceilings.
1-4-1 Mita, Meguro-ku. Tel: 5423-7000. Fax: 5423-7600.
Rates: Sgl. from ¥28,000, Dbl. from ¥30,000.
—Five minutes from Ebisu Station. [M-20]
MECURO CAJOEN—The old Cajoen Ryokan was rebuilt as a super-spacious luxury hotel. Remaining of the old building are the Japanese baroque wedding hall and meeting rooms.
1-8-1 Shimo-meguro, Meguro-ku. Tel: 3491-4111. Fax: 5434-3931.
Rates: Dbl. from ¥70,000, Japanese rooms from ¥90,000, double occupancy.
—Three-minute walk from Meguro Station. [M-19]
GAJOEN KANK OHOTEL- Aneccentric older hotel with an interesting blend of Western and Japanese interiors. Formerly associated with the Meguro Gajoen Ryokan next door.
1-8-1 Shimo-meguro, Meguro-ku. Tel: 3491-0111. Fax: 3495-2450.
Rates: Sgl. ¥10,197, Dbl. ¥17,926 (incl. tax).
—Five minutes from Meguro Station. [M-19]
Ochanomizu—Kudan
HILLTOP HOTEL—Called Yama no ue or "Top of the hill," this charming older hotel is famous for its history of being a favorite of writers and artists.
1-1 Kanda Surugadai, Chiyoda-ku. Tel: 3293-2311. Fax: 3233-4567
Rates: Sgl. from ¥13,000, Dbl. from ¥21,000.
—Five minutes from Ochanomizu Station. [M-15]
KUDAN KAIKAN HOTEL—This Meiji-period building houses a hotel and concert hall. Ask for a room facing the Imperial Palace.
1-6-5 Kudan-minami, Chiyoda-ku. Tel: 3261-5521. Fax: 3221-7238.
Rates: Sgl. from ¥8,034, Dbl. from ¥14,935, Japanese-style ¥12,296 for one, ¥17,304 for three (incl. tax).
—Two minutes from Kudanshita Station. [M-17]
• Other Hotels
HOTEL GRAND PALACE
1-1-1 lidabashi, Chiyoda-ku. Tel: 3264-1 111. Fax: 3230-4985.
Rates: Sgl. from ¥18,000, Dbl. from ¥27,000.
—One minute from Kudanshita Station. [M-17]
FAIRMONT HOTEL
2-1-17 Kudan-minami, Chiyoda-ku. Tel: 3262-1151. Fax: 3264-2476.
Rates: Sgl. from ¥11,310, Dbl. from ¥20,394 (incl. tax).
—Six minutes from Kudanshita Station. [M-17]
Asakusa—Ueno
ASAKUSA VIEW HOTEL—The only major hotel in this old downtown area. Convenient for sightseeing in "old Tokyo." A public Japanese cedar bath overlooks a small garden.
3-17-1 Nishi Asakusa, Taito-ku. Tel: 3842-2111. Fax: 3842-2117.
Rates: Sgl. from ¥15,000, Dbl. from ¥21,000, Japanese-style from ¥40,000 for one, each additional person is ¥3,000.
—Good sports facilities, seven minutes from Tawaramachi Station. [M-12]
TOURIST HOTEL—Small business hotel, but very convenient.
3-18-11 Higashi Ueno, Taito-ku. Tel: 3831-0237. Fax: 3837-1218.
Rates: Sgl. from ¥7,500, twin from ¥13,000.
—Two minutes from Ueno Station. [M-13]
SUIGETSU HOTEL—Inexpensive hotel with a large number of Japanese rooms, some Western rooms, and a large Japanese bath. On the grounds is the former home of the famous novelist Mori Ogai (1862-1922) that the hotel's owner has tried to preserve.
3-3-21 Ikenohata, Taito-ku. Tel: 3822-4611.
Rates: Sgl. from ¥7,800, Twin from ¥14,000.
—Three-minute walk from Nezu Station, ten minutes from Ueno. [M-13]
Tokyo City Air Terminal
HOLIDAY INN—Just like in America.
1-13-7 Hatchobori, Chuo-ku. Tel: 3553-6161. Fax: 3553-6040.
Rates: Sgl. from ¥16,906, Dbl. from ¥24,486 (incl. tax).
—Swimming pool (summer only), one minute from Hatchobori Station, three minutes by taxi to TCAT.[M-25]
• Other Hotels
HOTEL KITCHO
2-32-8 Nihombashi Ningyocho, Chuo-ku. Tel: 3666-6161. Fax: 3661-6162.
Rates: Sgl. from ¥8,755, Dbl. from ¥13,390 (incl. tax).
—Two minutes from Hamacho Station. [M-23]
KAYABACHO PEARL HOTEL
1-2-5 Shinkawa, Chuo-ku. Tel: 3553-2211. Fax: 3555-1849.
Rates: Sgl. from ¥8,000, Twin from ¥13,000.
—Three minutes from Kayaba-cho Station, [off Map]
Narita Airport
NARITA VIEW HOTEL
700 Kosuge, Narita City, Chiba Prefecture. Tel: (0476) 32-1111. Fax: (0476) 32-1193.
Rates: Sgl. from ¥15,158, Dbl. from ¥20,394 (incl. tax).
—Health facilities, next to Narita Airport, and ten minutes by taxi to Narita Station, [off Map]
NARITA U CITY HOTEL
1-1-2 Igodai, Narita City, Chiba Prefecture. Tel: (0476) 24-0101. Fax: (0476) 24-0160.
Rates: Sgl. from ¥9,000, Twin from ¥16,000.
—One minute from Narita Station (West Exit), twenty to thirty minutes from hotel to Narita Airport, and free hourly bus service, [off Map]
RYOKAN
A Japanese inn ryokan may be the closest you'll get to staying in a traditional Japanese home. You'll sleep in a tatami (straw-matted) room, in place of a bed, there will be a futon. Baths are Japanese-style and often communal (sexes are segregated). Privacy and excellent service are another plus. Morning and evening meals will be served in your room and your futon laid out at night. Good ryokan are expensive. Prices range from ¥20,000 to ¥60,000 or more, but two meals are included and the cuisine is often excellent.
Unfortunately, the best inns are not found in Tokyo. With land prices skyrocketing in the city, most innkeepers have opted for high-rise hotels. If you are planning to travel outside of Tokyo, you should perhaps save your ryokan experience until then. On page fifty-six, we have listed a few top-rated ryokan located a short distance from the city. Any of these places would make an ideal weekend trip out of Tokyo.
Because the few exceptional ryokan in Tokyo will accept only "introduced" guests, we have listed one medium-class ryokan and five inexpensive, somewhat tourist-oriented inns that can give you a taste of this tradition. Major hotels often have Japanese-style rooms. Most are expensive, but a few, like the Kudan Kaikan and the Suigetsu Hotel, are very affordable.
KIMI RYOKAN—Japanese-style rooms all with bath, meals not included.
2-36-8 Ikebukuro, Toshima-ku. Tel: 3971-3766.
Rates: One person ¥4,300, ¥7,500 for two.
—Six minutes from Ikebukuro station (West Exit). [M-18]
SANSUISO—Communal bath and showers, meals not included.
2-9-5, Higashi Gotanda, Shinagawa-ku. Tel: 3441-7475. Fax: 3449-1944.
Rates: Up to three people per room. Single occupancy from ¥4,300, ¥3,700 per person if three to a room.
—Five minutes from Gotanda Station, [off Map]
SAWANOYA—Close to Ueno Park, meals not included.
2-3-11 Yanaka, Taito-ku. Tel: 3822-2251. Fax: 3822-2252.
Rates: One person ¥4,000 (w/o bath), for two ¥7,000 (w/o bath) or ¥8,000 (w/bath).
—Seven minutes from Nezu Station. [M-13]
INABASO—Japanese or Western-style rooms all with baths, meals not included.
5-6-13 Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku. Fax: 3354-3332.
Rates: One person ¥5,000, for two ¥8,755 (incl. tax).
—Three minutes from Shinjuku San-chome Station. [M-7]
MIKAWAYA BEKKAN—Located in the center of Asakusa. Communal baths, meals not included.
1-31-11 Asakusa, Taito-ku. Tel: 3843-2345. Fax: 3843-2348.
Rates: One person ¥5,200, for two ¥9,600.
—Five minutes from Asakusa Station. [M-12]
Out of Town Ryokan
We have listed five excellent ryokan located in the Hakone and Izu areas. As with most good ryokan, morning and evening meals are included in the price. The rates listed here are per person, double occupancy, only a few places will accept single guests—and if they do the price goes up. The rates also generally go down if you want to stay four to a room.
Hakone
NARAVA—Established in the Edo period, the current building dates from over one hundred years ago. There is one main building and eight smaller ones all surrounded by a beautiful garden on Mt. Hakone.
162 Miyanoshita, Hakone-cho, Ashigarashimo-gun, Kanagawa-ken. Tel: (0460)2-2411. Fax: (0460)7-6231.
Rates: Rooms from ¥30,000.
RYUGUDEN (HAKONE PRINCE HOTEL WAFU-BEKKAN)—Every room faces Lake Ashinoko and Mt. Fuji.
139 Moto Hakone, Hakone-cho, Ashigarashimo-gun, Kanagawa-ken. Tel: (0460) 3-7111. Fax: (0460) 3-7011.
Rates: Rooms from ¥24,000 per person for two or more.
TSUBAKI—Located between Hakone and Atami, this famous ryokan is noted for its excellent Kyoto-style kaiseki cuisine.
776 Miyakami, Yugawara-cho, Ashigarashimo-gun, Kanagawa-ken. Tel: (0465) 63-3333. Fax: (0465) 63-6640.
Rates: Rooms from ¥56,000 per person, for two or more.
Izu
HOURAI—The hot spring here was founded in the eighth century Manyo period and is one of the oldest in Japan. There are beautiful views of the sea and wonderful kaiseki cuisine.
750-6 Izusan, Atami-shi, Shizuoka-ken. Tel: (0557) 80-5151. Fax: (0557) 80-0205.
Rates: Rooms from ¥40,000 per person for two or more.
ASABA
—This 350-year-old ryokan is distinguished by its Noh theater where special performances of Noh plays are given three times a year.
3450-1 Shuzenji, Shuzenji-cho, Tagata-gun, Shizuoka-ken. Tel: (0558) 72-0700. Fax: (0558) 72-7077.
Rates: Rooms from ¥25,000 per person for two or more.
CHEAP ACCOMMODATIONS
If you're on a budget, there are a number of inexpensive alternatives to hotels. In addition to being cheap, most are inconveniently located, lacking in privacy, and offer only minimal service. They are, however, safe, and they maintain reasonable standards of cleanliness. Choices include the YMCA and other youth hostels, public lodges (kokumin shukusha), minshuku "family-run lodging," and Buddhist temples. We have listed a few, but for further confirmation, contact one of the organizations listed below.
Youth Hostels
Rates average ¥3,500, including two meals. There is usually a central kitchen so you can cook for yourself. Rules are rather strict—including a 9:00 P.M. curfew. To enter a youth hostel, you must be a member of the "International Youth Hostel Federation." They sell memberships at the Tokyo International Youth Hostel office for ¥2,000 plus one passport photo.
TOKYO INTERNATIONAL YOUTH HOSTEL
Central Plaza, 18F, 21-1 Kaguragashi, Shinjuku-ku. Tel: 3235-1107. Fax: 3267-4000. Most rooms are shared by four people at about ¥3,840 per person. [Near lidabashi Station, off map.]
—New, clean, and liberal by Japanese standards. (They even serve beer in the dining room!) The average guests here are between the ages of fourteen and twenty-four. There are also a fair number of bargain-hunting businessmen, and a few Japanese-style rooms for families.
JAPAN YOUTH HOSTELS ASSOCIATION
Hoken Kaikan, 3F, 1-2 Ichigaya Sadohara-cho, Shinjuku-ku. Tel: 3269-5831/3. Fax: 3235-0629.
Minshuku
The average rate is ¥5,000 a day. There are over 27,000 of these lodgings throughout the country. Make your reservations through one of the following organizations:
JAPAN MINSHUKU CENTER
Kotsu Kaikan Bldg., B1, 2-10-1 Yurakucho, Chiyoda-ku. Tel: 3216-6556. Fax: 3216-6557.
JAPAN MINSHUKU ASSOCIATION
1-29-5 Takadanobaba, Shinjuku-ku. Tel: 3232-6561. Fax: 3232-6405.
Others
Japan Travel Bureau can reserve lodgings in Buddhist temples and People's Lodges. TIC also has a pamphlet titled Reasonable Accommodations in japan. Listings of other inexpensive lodgings can be found in the Tour Companion and the Tokyo journal.
TOKYO YMCA
7 Kanda Mitoshiro-cho, Chiyoda-ku. Tel: 3293-1911.
Rates: Sgl. from ¥10,300, twin from ¥18,540.
—Communal bath, one minute from Shin-ochanomizu Station. [M-14]
YMCA ASIA YOUTH CENTER
2-5-5 Sarugaku-cho, Chiyoda-ku. Tel: 3233-0611.
Rates: Sgl. ¥6,500, Dbl. ¥11,000, Triple ¥15,000.
—Private bath, five minutes from Suidobashi Station. [M-15]
TOKYO YWCA SADOHARA HOSTEL
3-1-1 Ichigaya Sadohara-cho, Shinjuku-ku. Tel: 3268-7313.
Rates: Sgl. from ¥5,360, twin from ¥10,000. Room with kitchenette for married couples ¥11,000.
—Communal bath, seven minutes from Ichigaya Station, [off Map]
TOKYO INTERNATIONAL HOUSE: Has various rooms around the center of Tokyo. Shared kitchen, living room and bath. Tel: 3945-1699.
Rates: From ¥60,000 per month.
KOTANI HOUSE: Two locations, both just outside of Ikebukuro, Shin-Okubo, Tel: 3962-4979.
Rates: Sgl. from ¥2,000, Dbl. ¥1,800 (per person). Monthly rates: ¥60,000 for a shared room, ¥40,000 (per person) for a couple, [off Map]
APPLE HOUSE: The largest guest house in Japan, this new facility is geared for foreigners, and offers inexpensive daily, weekly, and monthly rates. Located about twenty minutes from Shin-juku. Contact them for further information: Tel: (0422) 51-2277. Fax: (0422) 51-4499. [off Map]
CAPSULE HOTELS
The capsule hotel phenomenon provides an amusing insight into city life in Japan. Located in night life areas and near the major commuter train stations, these hotels have hundreds of tiny sleeping capsules stacked one on top of the other. The average capsule size is 1.1 meters wide, 1.2 meters high, and 2.2 meters long. Standard equipment includes color television with porn channel, radio, alarm clock, air conditioner, emergency button, and sprinkler system. The clients are predominantly intoxicated businessmen who missed the last train back to their suburban homes (women aren't allowed). The occupancy rate is very high, with the busiest check in hours being between 12:00 P.M. and 3:00 AM. The check-out rush comes between 8:00 A.M. and 9:00 A.M. when the hundreds of very serious faced and blue-suited businessmen scurry off to work.
GREEN PLAZA SHINJUKU—This huge capsule hotel boasts 660 "rooms."
1-29-3, Kabukicho, Shinjuku-ku. Tel: 3207-5411.
Rates: ¥4,100 per capsule (male only), for an afternoon nap the rate is ¥1,000 for two hours, 10:00 A.M.-5:00 P.M.
—Huge sauna, gym, and massage, two minutes from Shinjuku Station. [M-7]
HOTEL WHITE CITY
1-11-11 Higashi Ikebukuro, Toshima-ku. Tel: 3987-3011.
Rates: Same as above, but they also have normal rooms from ¥7,210.
—Sauna, two minutes from Ikebukuro Station. [M-18]
CAPSULE INN AKASAKA
6-14-1 Akasaka, Minato-ku. Tel: 3588-1811.
Rates: ¥4,000 between 5:00 P.M.-10:00 A.M. Men only. [M-6]
CAPSULE HOTEL ASAKUSA—This one also has a floor for women.
4-14-9 Kotobuki, Taito-ku. Tel: 3847-4477.
—Three minutes from Tawaramachi station. [M-12]
APARTMENT HOTELS
For people planning a longer stay, residential hotels with maid service and kitchenettes are ideal, though not particularly inexpensive. Besides the few listed below, they are often advertised in the local newspapers under "Apartments for Rent." The larger real estate companies often manage places for short-term lease (see "Housing" in the Appendix).
KITANO ARMS—2-16-15 Hirakawa-cho, Chiyoda-ku. Tel: 3265-2371. The most popular and respected of Tokyo residential hotels, you will have to reserve far in advance to insure a room. Rooms are from ¥345,000 a month. [M-6]
AZABU COURT—4-5-39 Minami Azabu, Minato-ku. Tel: 3446-8610. Close to Hiro-o Station, this hotel leases rooms by the day, the week, or the month. A single room will cost from about ¥150,000 to ¥230,000 a month, a studio will cost about ¥9,000 a day. [M-2]
ASAHI HOMES—Several apartment hotels in Tokyo with monthly rates ranging from ¥350,000 for a single room (¥90,000 weekly). Tel: 3583-7551.
