World’s Best Hotels in Tokyo

Travel & Leisure has published their 2008 World’s Best Awards and two hotels in Tokyo made the cut! Of the 50 World’s Best Hotels in Asia, The Imperial Hotel ranks 22nd while the Park Hyatt Tokyo ranks 16th in Asia and 77th Worldwide.

The Imperial Hotel, at number 22, first opened it’s doors in 1890 and was the was the only fully European style hotel in Tokyo for decades. This legendary Tokyo landmark has welcomed royalty, heads of state, celebrities and international business leaders for over 115 years and is located within walking distance of the Imperial Palace and Tokyo Station. With design elements remaining from a 1923 addition designed by Frank Lloyd Wright, the Imperial Hotel is definitely worth a visit – and you can stay there too if you don’t mind spending upwards of Y37,800 ($378 US) per night.

The Park Hyatt Tokyo, ranked at number 16, is located in the heart of Shinjuku and offers spectacular views of Tokyo’s unique skyline. The hotel has 173 rooms including 23 suites that are all located above the 41st floor with room rates starting around US $525 a night. The Park Hyatt Tokyo’s New York Bar, located on the 52nd floor, was prominently featured in the movie Lost in Translation starring Bill Murray and Scarlett Johansson. Everyone is welcome to visit the New York Bar, but if you go after 8PM (7PM on Sundays) expect to pay a Y2,000 (US $20) cover charge to enjoy some live Jazz and cocktails overlooking the city at night.

Photo Credit: Flickr, Park Tower from Shinjuku