Park Hyatt Tokyo

Famous for sky-high views, intimate service, and Lost in Translation, Park Hyatt Tokyo isn’t a bad place to splash your cash.

While we love a good deal, we also love good value, and Park Hyatt Tokyo is a great spot for those special occasions when you’re looking to spend a bit more.

Note: The above price per night is subject to occupancy, tax, and service charge.

What’s the hotel like?

Park Hyatt Tokyo is an iconic part of Shinjuku’s skyline. Designed by architect Kenzō Tange, the three-tower design blends seamlessly into the surrounding skyscrapers; he also designed the nearby Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building, and his son was responsible for the Mode Gakuen Cocoon Tower (the bullet-shaped building also on the west side of Shinjuku).

It’s easy to forget that the hotel opened way back in 1994 and hasn’t yet had a full-scale renovation, although it does go through regular maintenance. The vision of the hotel’s interior designer, John Morford, can be seen in the large and small features: the well-stocked library with hand-collected books, the sophisticated art pieces, and the distinct green and black color palette.

The entrance on the 2nd floor is a little underwhelming, but the “wow” moment happens when the elevator doors open onto the 41st floor — this is where the real experience begins.

What facilities does the hotel have?

The hotel offers several facilities, including four dining areas, two bars, a delicatessen, a pastry shop, a spa and gym (Club On The Park), a business center, function rooms, and even a wedding chapel.

The four restaurants are New York Grill, which serves western-style cuisine; Girandole, serving a European brasserie aesthetic and food; Kozue, for traditional Japanese dishes and a view of Mount Fuji; and The Peak Lounge, for all your afternoon tea needs. Half of New York Grill turns into New York Bar in the evening, and The Peak Lounge also goes through a similar boozy transition.

Club On The Park is known as one of the classiest hotel spas and fitness centers in the world — with also some of the best views. It could be because when swimming in the pool or running on a treadmill, it feels like you are floating on a cloud.

Is there anywhere to hang out in the hotel?

The Peak Lounge is the main place to chill out while taking in the views, and there are plenty of seats. There is also the library and chairs placed throughout the hallways. If you want to work, head to the 24-hour Business Center. Here you can access computers, printers, secretarial services, and meeting rooms.

What are the rooms like?

There are several room types in the 177-room Park Hyatt Tokyo. This includes many suites, but we are reviewing the most prevalent room in the hotel: the Park Deluxe.

The room is not ultra-modern and it retains some of its 90s aesthetics from when the building was built, but it still feels lavish. The original artwork, walk-in closet, and a 40-inch TV are evidence of this. We especially liked the marble and granite bathroom with a spacious tub and separated shower.

If you don’t mind a slightly smaller room, then the Park Room at 45 square meters is a slightly more affordable option, but there are not many of them so you’ll need to book fast.

How big are the rooms?

The King Bed Park Deluxe Room featured here is 55 square meters. This is much more generous than your average-sized Tokyo hotel room and the placement of the bathroom and large elongated windows maximize the space.

Are the rooms comfortable?

With books in every room, Bluetooth speakers, and a Nespresso machine, you won’t get bored of sitting on the windowsill like Scarlett Johansson. As you would expect from a 5-star hotel, the beds are extra wide, comfy, and fitted with Egyptian cotton sheets. There’s also room service all day and night with dishes prepared by the on-site restaurant Girandole.

What’s the view like?

Spectacular. This is undoubtedly one of the best hotel city views in Tokyo, if not the world. Plus, you have the bonus of being able to request a room with your favorite landmark. It’s hard to find anywhere in the hotel that doesn’t have a view.

Should I order the breakfast?

The breakfast is a buffet served in Girandole that costs a steep ¥4,700 (subject to tax and a service charge). That includes a range of eggs, fresh juice, and smoothie, as well as other Japanese and Western breakfast staples.

What’s the location like?

The hotel isn’t super close to the main attractions or stations, but it does offer a free shuttle service from/to Shinjuku L-Tower every day.

How is the access to trains and subway?

The closest stations to Park Hyatt Tokyo are:

• Shinjuku Station (15-minute walk): Take the JR Yamanote, Chūō–Sōbu, and Shōnan–Shinjuku and other lines; as well as the subway via the Marunouchi Line and Ōedo Line.
• Tochomae Station (10-minute walk): Take the Ōedo Line for Roppongi.

How do I get there from Tokyo’s airports?

• From Narita Airport: Take the Narita Express to Shinjuku Station (90 minutes) and get a taxi. Alternatively, take the Airport Limousine Bus direct to the hotel.
• From Haneda Airport: Take a 30-minute taxi or Limousine Bus. Alternatively, take the monorail and subway to Shinjuku and get a taxi.

What’s the surrounding neighborhood like?

The best thing about the area is the bustling Shinjuku Central Park in front of the hotel which often has events and things to do. Apart from that, the west side of Shinjuku is built for businesspeople and there’s not much going on, especially on the weekends.

Are there many good places to eat nearby?

If you don’t feel like dining in one of the many restaurants inside, unfortunately, there are a limited number of restaurants within walking distance, but we do recommend Musashino Mori Diner in the park, which is a great place for brunch or breakfast. But why not take advantage of that free shuttle bus and head to one of the many places to eat in Shinjuku?

What points of interest are within walking distance of the hotel?

As mentioned, Shinjuku Central Park is at your doorstep and if you don’t mind walking 15 minutes, you’ll be in the center of Shinjuku with plenty of options and things to see and do. You can also go up the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building for a free view of Tokyo, but you get just as good a vista staying at Park Hyatt Tokyo.

Who should stay here?

Celebrities, big names in business, and rich travelers are generally the clientele of Park Hyatt Tokyo, but that isn’t to say that it’s not often used by honeymooners, a partner looking for a place to propose, or any other opportunity to have a once-in-a-lifetime dip in luxury.

What sustainability measures do they have?

Park Hyatt Tokyo is doing several things to reduce its carbon footprint. The most notable of which are:

• 35% of the seafood they serve is from sustainable sources.
• The temperature of the heating and hot water are automatically adjusted depending on the outside air temperature.
• The reduction of single-use plastics by using glass bottles, paper bags, and straws.

Tips and tricks for the best stay

Take advantage of the concierge service at the hotel. You can get great recommendations and free rentals — including free portable Wi-Fi. If you’re heading to New York Bar, go before 7 p.m. as that is when it starts becoming busy.

Note: Check-in times are from 3 p.m. on weekends and holidays and from 1 p.m. on weekdays.