When the Park Hyatt opened in 1994 as Tokyo's first skyscraper hotel, I knew it was bound for glory the moment I stepped out of the elevator onto the light-drenched 41st floor. No hotel yet offered views as surreal as this; and with its gorgeous layout, high-tech rooms, and polished service (check-in is at one of three sit-down desks), it seemed light-years ahead of the competition. No wonder it starred in the 2003 hit, "Lost in Translation" and has inspired many competitors. Rooms, measuring a minimum of 45 sq. m (480 sq. ft.), have walk-in closets, deep soaking tubs (and separate showers), original pieces of artwork, Japanese-style paper lamps, paneling made from 2,000-year-old wood from Hokkaido, and great views (although east views of Shinjuku's nightlife and the greenery of several parks are the most popular, the west side sometimes has glimpses of Mount Fuji). I also like the hotel's 2,000-book library, the New York Grill with outstanding views and cuisine, the free bikes for exploration of nearby Yoyogi, Chuo, and Shinjuku parks (complete with helmets and bottled water), and the 47th-floor fitness facilities overlooking the city, with free use of a sky-lit lap pool, gym, and studio offering complimentary yoga, aerobics, Pilates, and a relaxing "Good Night Sleep Stretch." I'm ready to move in.
Tokyo› Hotel
Park Hyatt Tokyo
Shinjuku Park Tower (39th–52nd floors), 3-7-1-2 Nishi-Shinjuku
Our Rating
Neighborhood
Shinjuku
Transportation
Station: Shinjuku (13-min. walk or 5-min. free shuttle ride), Hatsudai, on the Keio Line (7 min.), or Tochomae (8 min.)
Phone
03/5322-1234
Prices
¥65,530–¥137,000 single or double; from ¥130,000 suite.
Units
177
Amenities
3 restaurants; 2 bars; lounge; babysitting; concierge; free entrance to gym and dramatic 20m indoor pool w/great views; room service; free shuttle service to Shinjuku Station up to 3 times an hour; spa; Wi-Fi.
URL
http://www.booking.com/hotel/jp/park-hyatt-tokyo.html?aid=1254987 &label=frommers-hotelpage-deeplink
Web site
Park Hyatt Tokyo
Map
Shinjuku Park Tower TokyoNote: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.