BACKGROUND
The Peninsula Hotels currently operates ten luxury hotels in key gateway cities of Asia, the USA and Europe. The Peninsula Hotels is a division of The Hongkong and Shanghai Hotels, Limited, a company listed on the Stock Exchange of Hong Kong. The brand arrived in Japan with the grand opening of The Peninsula Tokyo on September 1, 2007.
WHAT’S IT LIKE
Inspired by a traditional Japanese lantern, this stylish 24-storey tower has been envisioned by the architect Kazukiyo Sato. This opulent hotel strongly focusses on design, giving it a very artsy vibe. The lobby features ivory walls with striking wooden lattices.
I noticed over 1,000 artworks from several Japanese artists on display — in rooms, the lobby or restaurants. Business travellers planning to stay in the hotel can enjoy a smart chauffeur service in a 1934 Rolls-Royce Phantom drive from the airport.
WHERE IS IT
The hotel is situated in the financial district of Marunouchi. Haute shopping spots and popular areas like Ginza and Hibiya Park are just a five-minute walk from the hotel.
ROOM FACILITIES
Japanese culture and seasons are reflected strongly in this hotel. All 314 guestrooms, including 47 suites take inspiration from the streets of old Kyoto. I stayed in a deluxe room featuring an earthy palette, carpets in a woven kimono thread pattern, bedside and coffee table in antique-finish black lacquer, TV cabinet stands on the cherry wood, and red Japanese lacquer used for the work desk.
In terms of technology, the hotel really tries hard to remain at the forefront of the hospitality industry. Some in-room facilities include — wireless control panel by the bed, privacy button instead of “Do not disturb sign’ , fax machine on the work desk, the fixed-line phone can be synchronised with the guest’s personal mobile phone, electronic weather display information and an in-built nail dryer.
RESTAURANTS AND BARS
Its F&B options include Peter bar and restaurant serving premium beverages and grills; Hei Fung Terrace for its Cantonese dining; and The Lobby is an all-day dining serving special Peninsula Afternoon Tea. Additionally, if guests are looking for a traditional kaiseki and tempura cuisines then Kyoto Tsuruya is the place for you. The Peninsula Tokyo’s signature ‘Tokyo Joe’ cocktail served at The Lobby and Peter is a must-try. The cocktail is a blend of Bombay Sapphire Gin, Umeshu Drambuie and cranberry juice.
MEETING FACILITIES
With more than 1,300 sq m (14,000 sq ft) of banquet and meeting areas, The Peninsula Tokyo offers seamless service in planning events of all types and sizes. The Grand Ballroom is ideal for large-scale events. It offers two private pre-function areas and can accommodate 250 people for a reception, 165 theatre-style and 90 for a banquet. The hotel also houses a spectacular Ginza Ballroom. The East, West and South rooms are perfect for small to medium-size meetings. The Japanese Ceremony room located on level five is apt for organising special dining events.
LEISURE FACILITIES Offering nine treatment rooms, The Peninsula Spa’s three exclusive therapies include the Keihatsu Enlightenment Massage and the Lighten and Brighten Face and Back Facial. Additionally, this is Tokyo’s first hotel to offer virtual walking tours on an iPod.
VERDICT An upscale business hotel in the heart of Tokyo.
PRICE: Upwards of JPY 84,000 yen/INR 55,070 per night
CONTACT
The Peninsula Tokyo, 1-8-1 Yurakucho, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo, 100-0006, Japan
Ravi Lalwani
