In the heart of Tokyo, directly overlooking the Imperial Palace gardens, the Palace Hotel Tokyo stands as a symbol of sophisticated luxury and exceptional Japanese hospitality. Located in one of the city’s most prestigious districts, this iconic hotel offers an experience that seamlessly blends tradition with modern elegance, inviting guests into a world of unparalleled comfort and artistry.
A Storied Legacy and Transformation
The Palace Hotel Tokyo is the heir to a rich legacy that stretches back more than 50 years. Its current iteration, which debuted in May 2012, is the result of a meticulous three-year reconstruction project that involved an investment of USD 1 billion. Rebuilt entirely from the ground up, the hotel now offers 284 exquisite guestrooms, 10 distinctive restaurants and bars, Japan’s only evian SPA, and extensive event and meeting facilities, all set within a design that honors both modern sophistication and Japan’s deep-rooted traditions.
Since its reopening, the Palace Hotel Tokyo has earned numerous accolades, including being the first wholly Japanese-owned and managed hotel to receive the prestigious Five-Star rating from Forbes Travel Guide—an honor it has held since 2016. In 2024, it also became the first Japanese brand to be awarded Three Keys by the Michelin Guide, further cementing its status as one of the world’s most outstanding hotels.
The Hotel’s Unique Setting and Prime Location
Palace Hotel Tokyo’s location is nothing short of exceptional. Situated across from the sprawling Imperial Palace gardens, which span 3.5 square kilometers, the hotel offers guests breathtaking views of Tokyo’s natural beauty from virtually every room, the spa, and most of its restaurants and bars.
The hotel’s address in the prestigious Marunouchi district places it within easy reach of some of the city’s finest dining, shopping, and cultural landmarks. Just a short walk away is Tokyo Station, a historic transportation hub that connects visitors to the city’s vast subway, light rail, and high-speed rail networks. Adjacent to the station is KITTE, a modern shopping, dining, and office complex designed by renowned architect Kengo Kuma, which beautifully blends Tokyo’s rich history with contemporary design.
A Design Rich in Culture and Heritage
The Palace Hotel Tokyo is more than just a luxurious accommodation—it is a living canvas that celebrates Japan’s rich cultural heritage and natural beauty. While much of the original hotel was demolished during the reconstruction, many iconic elements were carefully preserved. Over 1.6 million Shigarakiyaki tiles from Shiga Prefecture, once adorning the exterior of the original building, now adorn the hotel’s interior. Additionally, the original Royal Bar counter, designed by legendary bartender Kiyoshi Imai, was lovingly restored.
Throughout the hotel, guests can explore more than 1,000 permanent works of art, with pieces by both emerging and established Japanese artists. The collection is curated by Art Front Gallery and includes sculptures, paintings, and watercolors that pay homage to Japan’s natural world and cultural traditions. Notable pieces include Echoes-Crystallization by Shinji Ohmaki and Shikisai no Shita, a striking floral piece by Satoshi Uchiumi, which has become a favorite for wedding portraits.
The hotel’s design also reflects the beauty of nature, with elements such as hand-tufted carpets featuring leaf motifs and sculptural installations inspired by the Imperial Palace grounds. The interiors, designed by local studios, combine traditional Japanese craftsmanship with modern luxury, creating a seamless fusion of old and new.
Exquisite Accommodations and Unmatched Amenities
Palace Hotel Tokyo offers 266 guestrooms and 18 suites, ranging from a spacious 45 square meters to an expansive 255 square meters. Each room is designed with the utmost attention to detail, featuring open-style bathrooms with separate soaking tubs and showers. Many rooms boast private balconies—an uncommon feature in Tokyo—providing guests with panoramic views of the city’s skyline and the Imperial Palace gardens.
The hotel’s interiors are designed with a calming, nature-inspired color palette, with earthy tones and textures that evoke the surrounding landscape. Unique Japanese touches further elevate the guest experience, including bath linens made in Imabari—renowned for its exceptional towel craftsmanship—and premium teas by Jugetsudo, a distinguished tea brand founded in Tokyo in 1854. Guests also enjoy nambu-tekki cast iron teapots and handcrafted Arita-yaki pottery tea cups, showcasing Japan’s commitment to craftsmanship.
In addition to luxurious accommodations, the hotel offers a range of exclusive amenities, including bath products by the British brand Bamford, ensuring a five-star experience from start to finish. For families, the hotel provides a selection of children’s amenities upon request, catering to every guest’s need.
Michelin-Starred Dining and Culinary Excellence
Palace Hotel Tokyo is home to some of the finest dining experiences in Tokyo. Its culinary collection includes a range of exceptional restaurants and bars, each offering a distinct experience that celebrates both Japanese and international cuisines.
Esterre, the hotel’s one Michelin-starred restaurant, represents the first collaboration between a Japanese hotel and DUCASSE Paris. The restaurant serves a contemporary take on haute cuisine, showcasing the natural flavors of Japan’s terroir.
For those seeking traditional Japanese fare, Wadakura offers an exquisite kaiseki experience, while GO serves up teppanyaki, Tatsumi specializes in tempura, and Sushi Kanesaka presents some of the finest sushi in the city.
Additionally, Amber Palace, managed by Chugoku Hanten Group, offers a Michelin-starred experience of exceptional Chinese cuisine.
The hotel also boasts Grand Kitchen, an all-day dining restaurant, and a selection of sophisticated bars and lounges, including the Royal Bar and Lounge Bar Privé.
Whether guests are looking for a refined space to relax or an upbeat venue for socializing, the hotel offers a variety of settings to suit every occasion.
The Ultimate Spa Experience
Located on the hotel’s fifth floor, evian SPA TOKYO is a sanctuary of relaxation and rejuvenation. The 1,200 square meter spa offers a range of luxurious treatments and features five treatment rooms, a spa suite, and separate men’s and women’s relaxation lounges. Combining French savoir-faire with traditional Asian therapies, the spa has earned a Forbes Travel Guide Five-Star rating for its exceptional service and tranquil atmosphere.
The hotel also boasts an indoor swimming pool, a Jacuzzi, and a state-of-the-art fitness center outfitted with Technogym equipment, ensuring that guests have access to world-class wellness facilities throughout their stay.
A True Japanese Experience
Palace Hotel Tokyo is more than just a luxury hotel—it is a celebration of Japan’s art, culture, and natural beauty. From its impeccable design and art collection to its Michelin-starred dining and five-star spa, the hotel offers a complete luxury experience that is both refined and deeply rooted in Japanese tradition. Whether visiting for business or leisure, guests are assured a stay that redefines the meaning of luxury in Tokyo.
With its unique combination of exceptional service, cutting-edge amenities, and deep cultural connection to the heart of Japan, Palace Hotel Tokyo stands as a true icon of Tokyo’s hospitality scene.