Luxury Hotels - Tokyo: New Palace Hotel, FS Marunouchi or Pen

Business is likely to take me to Tokyo later this month. I'm debating between these three properties.

The Palace Hotel is brand new and from some limited accounts from locals, seems to be the one to beat.

I'll only be there one or two nights.

Any thoughts between these properties? All are convenient to where I need to be.

Thanks.

Business is likely to take me to Tokyo later this month. I'm debating between these three properties.

The Palace Hotel is brand new and from some limited accounts from locals, seems to be the one to beat.

I'll only be there one or two nights.

Any thoughts between these properties? All are convenient to where I need to be.

Thanks.

I can say without doubt that The Peninsula or Four Seasons Marunouchi would be better choices than The Palace Hotel.

FS Marunouchi and The Peninsula have effectively the same location from a convenience standpoint. Four Seasons has a slight edge in this regard due to direct access to Tokyo station, although for most travelers this difference would probably be negligible.

If you are looking at lead in room categories at both hotels, IMO Peninsula is clearly the winner (at least until FS completes its light renovation). Even a Deluxe room at the Peninsula is spacious and very comfortable, with all of the technology and appointments one would expect from Peninsula. The bathrooms are great, and unlike many other hotels in Tokyo even the lead in rooms have proper sitting areas with sofas and tables to enjoy room service dining. Higher category rooms have essentially the same design as the deluxe rooms, but some have corner locations with windows in the bathrooms, while the Grand Deluxe Rooms are more spacious and have full views of Hibiya Park and the Imperial Palace gardens.

The Peninsula is also the choice if you value a swimming pool, and want to have multiple in hotel restaurants to choose from. In my opinion Peter and Hei Fung Terrace are excellent. For Japanese cuisine Tsuruya is also good, but quite frankly there are much better choices off property for Japanese cuisine.

FS Marunouchi is a wonderful hotel as well, and it is definitely worth considering, especially if you choose a Premier room or higher category. This is a boutique hotel on the first seven floors of the Century Pacific Place building, and the view from the lobby/restaurant/bar, as well as the suites and some of the rooms, is of Tokyo station and its surrounding skyscrapers.

As a small boutique Four Seasons Hotel, the service and privacy here are excellent. The public space feels very relaxing and residential, and the one restaurant Ekki Bar and Grill, also provides the room service for the hotel. The restaurant specializes in grilled Japanese beef and sea food, and has a good wine selection. There is a lot of good comfort food on the menu such as the Wagyu hamburger and the Linguini pasta with sea urchin cream sauce.

Having just one in hotel restaurant is not really a drawback, because the concierge can direct you to many excellent restaurants in the area. FS Marunochi has no swimming pool, but does have Japanese style furos in the spa/fitness area.

The Palace Hotel is not far away either, and I plan to check out some of its interesting restaurants in the near future, however I do not think it makes sense to take a risk when one can be assured of a great stay at either the Pen or FS Marunouchi.

Not much to add to what Mike says, but wanted to throw out that we love Marunouchi. Haven't stayed at the others, though.

The Palace Hotel isn't new, it's just newly renovated in a serious way that closed it for some time. It's a slightly worse location than the other two IMO.

Pre-renovation it was a four-star business-oriented hotel in a good location with pretty minimal facilities in a modern box building probably from about 1960. Rooms were small and VERY dated, worn and faded, with disappointing small bathrooms.

It's still the Pen. Palace will be a slightly ritzier version of the Okura. FSM is fine, but I think on balance, better facilities at Pen, particularly if you are there on business.

I can say without doubt that The Peninsula or Four Seasons Marunouchi would be better choices than The Palace Hotel.

FS Marunouchi and The Peninsula have effectively the same location from a convenience standpoint. Four Seasons has a slight edge in this regard due to direct access to Tokyo station, although for most travelers this difference would probably be negligible.

If you are looking at lead in room categories at both hotels, IMO Peninsula is clearly the winner (at least until FS completes its light renovation). Even a Deluxe room at the Peninsula is spacious and very comfortable, with all of the technology and appointments one would expect from Peninsula. The bathrooms are great, and unlike many other hotels in Tokyo even the lead in rooms have proper sitting areas with sofas and tables to enjoy room service dining. ...

The Peninsula is also the choice if you value a swimming pool, and want to have multiple in hotel restaurants to choose from. In my opinion Peter and Hei Fung Terrace are excellent. For Japanese cuisine Tsuruya is also good, but quite frankly there are much better choices off property for Japanese cuisine.

FS Marunouchi is a wonderful hotel as well, and it is definitely worth considering, especially if you choose a Premier room or higher category. This is a boutique hotel on the first seven floors of the Century Pacific Place building, and the view from the lobby/restaurant/bar, as well as the suites and some of the rooms, is of Tokyo station and its surrounding skyscrapers.

As a small boutique Four Seasons Hotel, the service and privacy here are excellent. The public space feels very relaxing and residential, and the one restaurant Ekki Bar and Grill, also provides the room service for the hotel. The restaurant specializes in grilled Japanese beef and sea food, and has a good wine selection. There is a lot of good comfort food on the menu such as the Wagyu hamburger and the Linguini pasta with sea urchin cream sauce.

Having just one in hotel restaurant is not really a drawback, because the concierge can direct you to many excellent restaurants in the area. FS Marunochi has no swimming pool, but does have Japanese style furos in the spa/fitness area.

The Palace Hotel is not far away either, and I plan to check out some of its interesting restaurants in the near future, however I do not think it makes sense to take a risk when one can be assured of a great stay at either the Pen or FS Marunouchi.
Thank you for this detailed comparison.


The Palace Hotel isn't new, it's just newly renovated in a serious way that closed it for some time. It's a slightly worse location than the other two IMO.

Pre-renovation it was a four-star business-oriented hotel in a good location with pretty minimal facilities in a modern box building probably from about 1960. Rooms were small and VERY dated, worn and faded, with disappointing small bathrooms.
Thank you MSPE. I recall the Palace's pre-renovation standing. At least from the photographs they've posted online, it looks like a very, very different hotel post-renovation.


It's still the Pen. Palace will be a slightly ritzier version of the Okura. FSM is fine, but I think on balance, better facilities at Pen, particularly if you are there on business.
Hi grumbler - are you making reference to the new incarnation of the hotel which just opened in May? It looks wildly more advanced than the Okura!

* * * * *

Several of my Tokyo-based colleagues have really raved about the re-opening Palace Hotel. Perhaps this is just because it is so new and significant better than before.

I think I drop the FS-M, and just focus on the Pen or the Palace. Let me grill my colleagues a bit further. The Palace's website shows a very attractive hotel, and I know it is in an ideal location for me (the Pen is fine, too)...I may be willing to be the guinea pig and try it out...though the option to simply retreat to the Pen, where I know everything will be fine, is also compelling.

Decisions, decisions...

These are good problems. :)

Palace will be a slightly ritzier version of the Okura.

I agree with this assessment of the Palace.

This thread got me thinking about the Palace, so I went yesterday and ended up having dinner. The hotel is newly renovated and has a great location, interesting design aspects, and some great restaurants (many of which are tenants, which is typical of Japanese hotels), but from a service perspective this hotel does not by any means compare to The Peninsula.

This is not at all surprising, as without foreign management companies such as Four Seasons and Peninsula, the Japanese quite frankly have no clue about luxury hospitality and the type of service necessary to achieve it.

Thank you for this detailed comparison.



Thank you MSPE. I recall the Palace's pre-renovation standing. At least from the photographs they've posted online, it looks like a very, very different hotel post-renovation.



Hi grumbler - are you making reference to the new incarnation of the hotel which just opened in May? It looks wildly more advanced than the Okura!

* * * * *

I am sure it is more advanced than the Okura - but I think it will remain a Japanese business hotel, though at the high end of that scale. Not to knock it, and I certainly would try it, especially if rates are competitive.

Several of my Tokyo-based colleagues have really raved about the re-opening Palace Hotel. Perhaps this is just because it is so new and significant better than before.

I think I drop the FS-M, and just focus on the Pen or the Palace. Let me grill my colleagues a bit further. The Palace's website shows a very attractive hotel, and I know it is in an ideal location for me (the Pen is fine, too)...I may be willing to be the guinea pig and try it out...though the option to simply retreat to the Pen, where I know everything will be fine, is also compelling.

Decisions, decisions...

These are good problems. :)

The Palace Hotel isn't new, it's just newly renovated in a serious way that closed it for some time. It's a slightly worse location than the other two IMO.

They tore the old building down and built a completely new one. The only thing that isn't new about The Palace Hotel is the name.

Several of my Tokyo-based colleagues have really raved about the re-opening Palace Hotel. Perhaps this is just because it is so new and significant better than before.

I've never stayed there, but I've had breakfast there twice, and all I've seen in the restaurant and lobby was truly excellent.

I have been a die hard park Hyatt Tokyo fan for years. I stayed recently at the Peninsula tokyo for the location and loved it. The service was terrific and the location perfect. I missed the PH views, their Japanese restaurant, and their pool ( although there is one at the Pen), but the Pen was great, and many great restaurants in the area. I stayed a few years ago at FS when I needed to be in that area, and thought service good, but liked the Pen much better.

I have been a die hard park Hyatt Tokyo fan for years. I stayed recently at the Peninsula tokyo for the location and loved it. The service was terrific and the location perfect. I missed the PH views, their Japanese restaurant, and their pool ( although there is one at the Pen), but the Pen was great, and many great restaurants in the area. I stayed a few years ago at FS when I needed to be in that area, and thought service good, but liked the Pen much better.

Not too surprising since the GM of the Pen was previously the long time GM of the PH!

This is not at all surprising, as without foreign management companies such as Four Seasons and Peninsula, the Japanese quite frankly have no clue about luxury hospitality and the type of service necessary to achieve it.



I completely agree with you. The same can be said for hotels in Korea and China.

I must however admit to a certain fondness for the Okura in Tokyo.

PS - Doesn't the Palace Hotel have views of the Imperial Palace which makes it rather unique ...

The Pen is just across the street from the Imperial Palace compound which means it would at least have views of the grounds (I remember the GM telling me they couldn't build higher because the Imperial Household Agency didn't want them overlooking the buildings in there).

Also the Ritz-Carlton, club level.

Palace did go out and hire a number of staff from pen,ritz, hyatt but at the end of the day it is targetting the Japanese market more than the international one. Will stay there next month, however location is not ideal as my office is in Roppongi.

Some rooms in the Imperial have Palace views too, although both the Peninsula and the Imperial are at the far side to the Palace, while the Palace Hotel is on the other side, but looking from the same direction, and closer to the main buildings in the Palace grounds.

Some rooms at the Pen have views of the palace. You must ask for a high floor or place view. Otherwise you could be looking into office buildings!

Some rooms at the Pen have views of the palace. You must ask for a high floor or place view. Otherwise you could be looking into office buildings!

Apart from the super suites, Grand Deluxe or Deluxe Park View are the ones to request - one of the Grand Deluxe rooms on each floor has a pretty good view from the front of the hotel; and depending on which Deluxe Park room you get, there will be a pretty good view of the Palace grounds.

What you don't want in this hotel is a view from the back, which is kind of grim.

Thanks all. I've decided to go with the Pen...the safe choice.

I'll get some current photos while I'm there to share.

I completely agree with you. The same can be said for hotels in Korea and China.

I must however admit to a certain fondness for the Okura in Tokyo.

PS - Doesn't the Palace Hotel have views of the Imperial Palace which makes it rather unique ...

http://upgrd.com/sitinfirst/tokyo-and-seoul-part-3-visiting-tokyo-in-1970-hotel-okura.html

We stayed at the FSM in 2006 and loved it. Especially the service - which was incredible. A bunch of new properties have opened since then. One that strikes my eye is the Pen. Is there any reason to prefer it over FSM? The FSPP/Virtuoso amenities seem to be about the same. Prices too - at least at this point for a trip in September (we're looking at the Deluxe Premier Room at FSM or the equivalent in other places). About the only thing that strikes my eye is the Pen has 2 sinks in the bathroom - and FSM only one. Anything else? Robyn

Some guests choose the Peninsula for the view of the park... Both hotels have received very good feedback - but especially FS Manunouchi.

The Pen has a marginally better location IMO and of course, the rooms are newer than at the FSM, which is apparently going to begin a remodel soon but hasn't yet.

The Pen has done a marvelous suite promotion in the past, if it does that again, go for it. In other words, whatever you book now, make sure it is cancelable.

We have a recent thread that is almost the same as this one. I'm going to merge this one into that.

RichardInSF, moderator, luxury hotels

We stayed at the FSM in 2006 and loved it. Especially the service - which was incredible. A bunch of new properties have opened since then. One that strikes my eye is the Pen. Is there any reason to prefer it over FSM? The FSPP/Virtuoso amenities seem to be about the same. Prices too - at least at this point for a trip in September (we're looking at the Deluxe Premier Room at FSM or the equivalent in other places). About the only thing that strikes my eye is the Pen has 2 sinks in the bathroom - and FSM only one. Anything else? Robyn

The Peninsula is certainly worth a try, particularly if you can get a Grand Deluxe room or any suite category. As a larger hotel, and the only freestanding high-end hotel in tokyo, the Pen offers a swimming pool and more extensive spa and fitness facilities. F&B is very good,especially in Peter and Hei Fung Terrace (Chinese). For Japanese food Tsuruya is pretty good, but frankly I would suggest dining out instead for Japanese cuisine.

The bathrooms are similar in layout to the bathrooms at The Peninsula Bangkok and are both beautiful and user-friendly.

Service is excellent at the Peninsula, but perhaps not quite at the level of FS Marunouchi, which in my opinion has the best service in Town. The real advantage of FSM is the superior service, intimacy, and privacy it is able to offer as a boutique hotel.

I would possibly suggest trying The Peninsula this time, and then returning to FSM after the refurbishment (which may be in progress in September).

Recently went to a company party hosted at the Palace Hotel. Food and service were excellent, on par with a party we had at the Peninsula a few years back.

The Peninsula is certainly worth a try, particularly if you can get a Grand Deluxe room or any suite category. As a larger hotel, and the only freestanding high-end hotel in tokyo, the Pen offers a swimming pool and more extensive spa and fitness facilities. F&B is very good,especially in Peter and Hei Fung Terrace (Chinese). For Japanese food Tsuruya is pretty good, but frankly I would suggest dining out instead for Japanese cuisine.

The bathrooms are similar in layout to the bathrooms at The Peninsula Bangkok and are both beautiful and user-friendly.

Service is excellent at the Peninsula, but perhaps not quite at the level of FS Marunouchi, which in my opinion has the best service in Town. The real advantage of FSM is the superior service, intimacy, and privacy it is able to offer as a boutique hotel.

I would possibly suggest trying The Peninsula this time, and then returning to FSM after the refurbishment (which may be in progress in September).

Well - I booked rooms at both FSM and the Peninsula. A Deluxe Premier at FSM and a Grand Deluxe at the Peninsula. The latter is currently about $50 more expensive than the former. But it is still too early to tell what specials either place will have in September 2013. Both reservations can be canceled day before arrival - so that won't be a problem.

Guess I will check with our travel agent this week (assuming she's not tearing her hair out with Christmas stuff) - and see what she thinks (I usually make tentative reservations and then she takes them over under FSPP or Virtuoso). Especially when it comes to amenities/possible upgrades (the executive suite price is a big leap in price from these rooms - upgrades are possible - but I suspect unlikely at either place for a one week stay - although we got a fabulous upgrade at the Grand in Stockholm a few months back - I am especially interested in having an extra 1/2 bath :D).

FWIW - I like the floor plan at FSM better. And the service first time around was simply amazing. Robyn

P.S. I am 65 and my husband is 67. At our ages - I suspect this trip to Tokyo might be our second and last.

P.S. I am 65 and my husband is 67. At our ages - I suspect this trip to Tokyo might be our second and last.

Don't say that. My father is 76 and he was in Asia last year, and has clear plans to be in Asia again next year. My grandmother would travel to Europe regularly well into her 80s.

Don't say that. My father is 76 and he was in Asia last year, and has clear plans to be in Asia again next year. My grandmother would travel to Europe regularly well into her 80s.

There's travel and there's travel. Individual preferences too. My husband and I like to travel poking around on our own and exploring places. In the past (like our first trip to Japan) - we could easily walk 5 miles a day. My husband's MS kicked into middle gear when he was about 60 - and we're down to 2-3 miles a day now judging from our trip to Stockholm in September (and that's pushing it). We do not like tours or cruises.

Anyway - we'll do what we can do as long as we can do it. That's one reason why I picked Tokyo for our anniversary/my birthday trip this year (regardless of the weather). Tokyo is so extremely dense that you don't have to cover a lot of ground to see a whole lot. Plus - it has a superb subway system - and there are tons of cabs too. Also - since we're been there before - we don't think we have to see everything. Finally - we love to eat. And Tokyo has more restaurants than our county has people. We won't have to travel far to get "great eats" :). And there are plenty of places to rest for a bit when we get tired. As the line from The Outlaw Josey Wales goes - we shall "endeavor to persevere". And - when we can't keep chugging along - we'll stop. Robyn

One issue for older people is that Tokyo subways can have a lot of stairs, including crowds running up and down the stairs veru quickly with some pushing.

If you're going to be using trains a lot, for example for day trips or even just the JR circle line, FSM is a much better location.

ADDED. Have you considered the Imperial? You might enjoy being on their Imperial floors or getting a "junior" suite which seems to really mean a medium-sized one-bedroom suite, although I'm not sure whether this room category has the extra half-bath.

If the Imperial is an option, I recently got an email offering Imperial Club members half off for some period. Membership is free, and I think you can enroll online.

...One that strikes my eye is the Pen. Is there any reason to prefer it over FSM?

The only really solid reason to prefer the Pen is the pool; FSM wins on service, general comfort and location (for transport). It also has a very good gym in its own right (no pool, but a nice hot springs bath for post-touristing relaxation). But if FSM wins on those counts, it's only by the slimmest margin, and the Pen is lovely, especially with a castle/park view. And if there is risk of refurbishment disturbances at the FSM, it might be best to avoid.

If the Imperial is an option, I recently got an email offering Imperial Club members half off for some period. Membership is free, and I think you can enroll online.

I took a look at that - and it's a winter special good until the end of March (our trip isn't until September). But perhaps someone else can take advantage of it. Note that I spoke with our travel agent last week - and she was totally slammed with Christmas trip stuff (and that was before the current winter storm). I told her no problem - that we could talk next week or the week after about hotels. Robyn

One issue for older people is that Tokyo subways can have a lot of stairs, including crowds running up and down the stairs veru quickly with some pushing.

If you're going to be using trains a lot, for example for day trips or even just the JR circle line, FSM is a much better location.

ADDED. Have you considered the Imperial? You might enjoy being on their Imperial floors or getting a "junior" suite which seems to really mean a medium-sized one-bedroom suite, although I'm not sure whether this room category has the extra half-bath.

When we were in Tokyo 6 years ago (only trip so far) - we ran across some of those subway stations with lots of stairs. On a couple of occasions - we actually saw older/disabled people being carried up/down the stairs. We can navigate up/down stairs - albeit slowly. OTOH - I'll take a look - and see if I can find a subway map with notes about stations that aren't handicap accessible. Should make things easier. Also - on that first trip - we were told to avoid the subway during rush hours - and we did. We sometimes encountered a lot of people (by our standards) - but nothing overwhelming.

I'm going to talk with our travel agent in the next couple of weeks. See what she/her firm think about the current hotel situation in Tokyo. Will also try to find out if/when renovations to FSM are scheduled. Robyn

When we were in Tokyo 6 years ago (only trip so far) - we ran across some of those subway stations with lots of stairs. On a couple of occasions - we actually saw older/disabled people being carried up/down the stairs. We can navigate up/down stairs - albeit slowly. OTOH - I'll take a look - and see if I can find a subway map with notes about stations that aren't handicap accessible. Should make things easier. Also - on that first trip - we were told to avoid the subway during rush hours - and we did. We sometimes encountered a lot of people (by our standards) - but nothing overwhelming.

I'm going to talk with our travel agent in the next couple of weeks. See what she/her firm think about the current hotel situation in Tokyo. Will also try to find out if/when renovations to FSM are scheduled. Robyn

Most train and subway stations in Tokyo are well equipped with elevators and escalators for passengers with mobility issues, or those with baby carriages or luggage.

As nice as the Peninsula is, I think FS Marunouchi may still be the best choice for you as it provides a level of service that is, in my opinion, unmatched by larger hotels. Even if renovations were in progress I am sure they could provide a quiet room or suite for you.

The Peninsula is certainly worth a try, particularly if you can get a Grand Deluxe room or any suite category. As a larger hotel, and the only freestanding high-end hotel in tokyo, the Pen offers a swimming pool and more extensive spa and fitness facilities. F&B is very good,especially in Peter and Hei Fung Terrace (Chinese). For Japanese food Tsuruya is pretty good, but frankly I would suggest dining out instead for Japanese cuisine.

The bathrooms are similar in layout to the bathrooms at The Peninsula Bangkok and are both beautiful and user-friendly.

Service is excellent at the Peninsula, but perhaps not quite at the level of FS Marunouchi, which in my opinion has the best service in Town. The real advantage of FSM is the superior service, intimacy, and privacy it is able to offer as a boutique hotel.

I would possibly suggest trying The Peninsula this time, and then returning to FSM after the refurbishment (which may be in progress in September).

What are some good Japanese restaurants within walking distance of the FSM?

What are some good Japanese restaurants within walking distance of the FSM?

Since Ginza, the Marunouchi and Shin-Marunouchi buildings, and other nearby hotels are within walking distance or a short train/cab ride away from FSM, there are countless choices. The closest would be the casual Japanese restaurants located in the basement, directly beneath the hotel, which can be reached by elevator from the lobby on the seventh floor.

If you will be there before May 31st, when the Seiyo Ginza hotel will close, I highly recommend Sushiya Mao (http://www.seiyo-ginza.com/mao.aspx). This is a wonderful Sushi restaurant, which is part of the Kanesaka group.

The Palace hotel (http://en.palacehoteltokyo.com/dining/restaurants)also has some great restaurants, some of which are tenants in the hotel and part of well know restaurant groups. There is also a Kanesaka sushi restaurant here, as well as very good Teppanyaki and Chinese restaurants.

The Concierge at FSM can recommend and make reservations for any type of restaurant you would like, including some of the city's finest restaurants.

Since Ginza, the Marunouchi and Shin-Marunouchi buildings, and other nearby hotels are within walking distance or a short train/cab ride away from FSM, there are countless choices. The closest would be the casual Japanese restaurants located in the basement, directly beneath the hotel, which can be reached by elevator from the lobby on the seventh floor.

If you will be there before May 31st, when the Seiyo Ginza hotel will close, I highly recommend Sushiya Mao (http://www.seiyo-ginza.com/mao.aspx). This is a wonderful Sushi restaurant, which is part of the Kanesaka group.

The Palace hotel (http://en.palacehoteltokyo.com/dining/restaurants)also has some great restaurants, some of which are tenants in the hotel and part of well know restaurant groups. There is also a Kanesaka sushi restaurant here, as well as very good Teppanyaki and Chinese restaurants.

The Concierge at FSM can recommend and make reservations for any type of restaurant you would like, including some of the city's finest restaurants.

Thanks Mike for the information! Much appreciated

Hello,
My wife and I will be traveling to Tokyo for 10 nights in June and are looking for some hotel advise. We went to Hong Kong in 2010 and after much deliberation and help from these forums ended up in the Peninsula and absolutely loved it.
We are again looking at both the Four Seasons and the Penn through the FHR program, with the costs being roughly the same, what would be the pro's and con's of each. We love being centrally located to shopping and sightseeing and will take day trips some days( tips??).
Thank you all in advance, I wouldn't book a trip to anywhere without consulting this site!

I am going to merge this thread into a recent related thread on almost the same subject:

http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/showthread.php?t=1366861&referrerid=14479

RichardInSF, moderator, luxury hotels

I am not happy with FS Marunouchi these days, but will reserve judgement until the refurbishment is completed.

F&B quality seems to have gone down, and I question management's decision to relocate the concierge/front reception to the ground floor. I hope this is a temporary move due to the renovation, because having these services on the seventh floor worked much better.

As of now the Peninsula is the best choice.

If you have a chance, I would suggest spending two or three nights outside of Tokyo, perhaps in Hakone or Kyoto.

Hello,
We are again looking at both the Four Seasons and the Penn through the FHR program, with the costs being roughly the same,

FS has a 4th night free program opened up for all of June. That must bring the costs down a lot less then Pen no? Four Seasons Pref Partner can secure FHR type perks for you. But I personally think the Pen is the better choice. They may launch packages closer to arrival

As nice as the Peninsula is, I think FS Marunouchi may still be the best choice for you as it provides a level of service that is, in my opinion, unmatched by larger hotels.

I am not happy with FS Marunouchi these days, but will reserve judgement until the refurbishment is completed.

As of now the Peninsula is the best choice.

That was an abrupt about face!

That was an abrupt about face!

Yes, I relized that when these threds were combined.

While the FS previously was my top choice in the area, I have been shocked by some recent bad experiences.

At least until the refurbishment is completed my choice would be the Peninsula.

Yes, I relized that when these threds were combined.

While the FS previously was my top choice in the area, I have been shocked by some recent bad experiences.

At least until the refurbishment is completed my choice would be the Peninsula.
We are going in the middle of June, will the renovations be completed by then?

Yes, I relized that when these threds were combined.

While the FS previously was my top choice in the area, I have been shocked by some recent bad experiences.

At least until the refurbishment is completed my choice would be the Peninsula.

If it's not too personal - what were your bad experiences? We have reservations there in September. Robyn

I believe the reservations will be finished by September, and possibly even before June, although I do not know the exact schedule.

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I believe the reservations will be finished by September, and possibly even before June, although I do not know the exact schedule.

They are closing? :)

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They are closing? :)

Not the FS Maronouchi as far as I have heard. The former Seiyo Ginza is definitely closing.

Not the FS Maronouchi as far as I have heard. The former Seiyo Ginza is definitely closing.

As of this writing, they are still the current Seiyo Ginza!

(If you enjoy the Seiyo Ginza food, there is a Seiyo Ginza store in the food court of Tokyo station Daimaru. A staff worker told me that the store will remain open after May 31st.)

This is a bit off topic, but the excellent sushi restaurant "Mao" at the Seiyo Ginza will be relocating after the hotel closes, and will still be open for business with the same chefs and waitstaff. The name may change, but it will still be run by the Kanesaka group.

This is a bit off topic, but the excellent sushi restaurant "Mao" at the Seiyo Ginza will be relocating after the hotel closes, and will still be open for business with the same chefs and waitstaff. The name may change, but it will still be run by the Kanesaka group.

Thanks for this update- any idea where it will be relocating to?

Thanks for this update- any idea where it will be relocating to?


I just called Mao and was told that they indeed will be opening a new restaurant, with all the same employees. Only the location and name will change. The sushi is superb, and I am very happy to hear that I will not be losing this restaurant along with the Seiyo Ginza.

They have not firmly decided on a new location, so I will update in May when they inform me of their new name and location. Until May 31st Mao is open for business as usual at the Seiyo Ginza. It is a tenant restaurant, so its operation will be completely unaffected by the closing of the hotel. Here is the website of Sushiya Mao (http://www.seiyo-ginza.com/mao.aspx).

Not just yet, but I will find out and update this post with the information.

Thanks!

Thank you very much for your interests in our hotel. Four seasons hotel Tokyo at Marunouchi is adjacent to Tokyo Station, the terminal station for Shinkansen, Narita Express, all major Bullet trains and major suburban and commuter rail lines. It is a three-minute walk from the Yaesu South Exit (Yaesu Minami-Guchi) of Tokyo Station to the Hotel. We offer complementary sending and greeting service; our staff will meet you on their arrival platform at Tokyo Station and escort you to the Hotel. We provide spacious comfortable newly renovated guest rooms, complimentary use of hot-spring baths and sauna in the spa, a 24-hour fitness studio, and free Wi-Fi throughout the property.

Our FHR program offers you daily complimentary continental breakfast, early check in at 12PM, room upgrade upon arrival (Subject to availability),
Late check out at 16:00PM, welcome amenity, and US$100 Spa credit(not applicable for Spa products).

We hope to welcome you soon and you will like our personalized service.
Please contact to our concierge( reservation.marunouchi@fourseasons.com) at any time for further information.

Best Regards,
Daniel Simon
General Manager
Four Seasons Hotel Tokyo at Marunouchi

Welcome to FT. Mr. Simon. Does your post mean the renovation is entirely completed now?

Welcome to FT. Mr. Simon. Does your post mean the renovation is entirely completed now?
No answer to your last query?
Also, anyone know if the Pen has an airport greeting service as the Pen in HK has, it was very useful navigating an unfamiliar airport and getting to the hotel(via Rolls Royce) after a long flight.

anyone know if the Pen has an airport greeting service as the Pen in HK has, it was very useful navigating an unfamiliar airport and getting to the hotel(via Rolls Royce) after a long flight.http://www.peninsula.com/Tokyo/en/default.aspx?gclid=CNKSw6i3k7YCFW2oPAod81IAbg#/Tokyo/en/Visiting_For/Business/Arrival/ no details, just mentions "airport greeters"

http://www.fourseasons.com/tokyo/destination/directions_and_maps/
Four Seasons personnel will meet guests in the arrival hall (immediately outside the customs exit) and assist with currency exchange and ground transportation. Guests will then be escorted to the boarding area for the local transportation of their preference...service fee applies.

Platform greeting and sending service
Four Seasons personnel will meet guests on their arrival platform at Tokyo Station and escort them to the Hotel...personnel will also escort guests to their platform at Tokyo Station upon departure.

http://www.aa.com/i18n/urls/fivestarservice.jsp (@ NRT)
doesnt publish immigration fast track but does offer it at some airports
itineraries involving airlines other than American Airlines or American Eagle may be accepted if flight departs or arrives from an American Airlines terminal or is approved by airport staff.
(terminal 2 http://www.narita-airport.jp/en/guide/t_info/index.html)

No answer to your last query?
Also, anyone know if the Pen has an airport greeting service as the Pen in HK has, it was very useful navigating an unfamiliar airport and getting to the hotel(via Rolls Royce) after a long flight.

For a much higher price than in HK, Pen Tokyo can provide a Rolls Royce transfer from either NRT or HND. Unlike HK there is no airside assistance or queue jump that can be arranged through the hotels. The airport representatives greet guests after they have cleared immigration.

Any intel. on the Tokyo Station Hotel as an option? I've seen some good reviews, but someone described the decor as a "Japanese interpretation of a Paris bordello." :eek:

Any intel. on the Tokyo Station Hotel as an option? I've seen some good reviews, but someone described the decor as a "Japanese interpretation of a Paris bordello." :eek:

It looks very nice to me...but I also love the Ritz Carlton Osaka decor, so YMMV.

The new Palace Hotel a few minutes walk away may be a better option.

Any intel. on the Tokyo Station Hotel as an option? I've seen some good reviews, but someone described the decor as a "Japanese interpretation of a Paris bordello." :eek:
I'm sure there are people who would consider that to be a good thing.

I'm sure there are people who would consider that to be a good thing.

The Japanese interpretation or the Paris original?

I'm sure there are people who would consider that to be a good thing.

The Japanese interpretation or the Paris original?

I must say that the hotel has many pictures on their website and to me the decor would be described as somewhat fru-fru, but not over the top.

The Tokyo Station hotel should be a decent place, but it (and the nearby Maronouchi hotel, which is at the same level) is not a luxury hotel.

The Tokyo Station hotel should be a decent place, but it (and the nearby Maronouchi hotel, which is at the same level) is not a luxury hotel.

I pulled the trigger and booked a package that includes breakfast at the Tokyo Pen.

Their website was vague on what "breakfast" meant, being described as "American breakfast in a restaurant." I saw one posting online somewhere that indicated that the Pen included breakfast was actually a credit toward the cost, and that the credit pretty much covered no more than coffee and a bagel. i have a question into the Pen about details, but haven't yet heard back. Does anyone here have any experience with the breakfast included with their package rates??

I pulled the trigger and booked a package that includes breakfast at the Tokyo Pen.

Their website was vague on what "breakfast" meant, being described as "American breakfast in a restaurant." I saw one posting online somewhere that indicated that the Pen included breakfast was actually a credit toward the cost, and that the credit pretty much covered no more than coffee and a bagel. i have a question into the Pen about details, but haven't yet heard back. Does anyone here have any experience with the breakfast included with their package rates??

I had an included breakfast and I was able to order off their very nice a la carte menu, and was able to have a very nice large breakfast, with a main dish, basket of fresh breads and pastries, and unlimited coffee and orange juice. There should be some pics in my signature line, below. It was served in the main lobby restaurant, and was just excellent.

Does one of you well traveled Flyertalk members have pictures or first hand experience with the room renovations at the Four Seasons Marunouchi?

It also appears there are some corner rooms for this property. Does anyone have room numbers to suggest?

I had an included breakfast and I was able to order off their very nice a la carte menu, and was able to have a very nice large breakfast, with a main dish, basket of fresh breads and pastries, and unlimited coffee and orange juice. There should be some pics in my signature line, below. It was served in the main lobby restaurant, and was just excellent.

Thanks. This is the response from the Pen:

Breakfast included in the package will basically be a set menu,
where you can choose from several menu such as below:
*American Breakfast - Full breakfast with toast, egg, coffee/tea and fruit juice
*Continental Breakfast - Light breakfast with toast, coffee/tea and fruit juice

You can also choose ala carte menu as long as it does not exceed the price of American Breakfast,
which is JPY 3,800 per person plus service charge. In this case, if the total amount goes above the limit,
we kindly ask you to pay additional charge for the overage.

So, I'm thinking that the person who felt like it wasn't a good value was ordering off the menu rather that going with the set breakfast, which will be fine for us.

So, I'm thinking that the person who felt like it wasn't a good value was ordering off the menu rather that going with the set breakfast, which will be fine for us.

It is coming back to me a bit more now....I recall that by applying the cost of the included American breakfast to other a la carte items, you could pretty much have anything you wanted. So enjoy.

Does one of you well traveled Flyertalk members have pictures or first hand experience with the room renovations at the Four Seasons Marunouchi?

It also appears there are some corner rooms for this property. Does anyone have room numbers to suggest?

We'll be there in September and can report back. Don't know if you plan to travel earlier than that. We've reserved the same type of room we had previously - Deluxe Premier Room - about 700 sf:

http://www.fourseasons.com/tokyo/accommodations/guest_rooms/deluxe_premier_room/

I'm not sure room location matters so much in this hotel as floor plans. Because it's a very low hotel (bottom floors of an office building) - no great views. OTOH - my husband doesn't like to be way up high - and we enjoyed our room with a panoramic view of all the trains in Tokyo station a lot. Robyn