For me, there's a big difference between a resort and a city hotel. Resorts I go to because I want to. City hotels I go to because I need a place to stay.

Too date, I haven't been too impressed with any of the new hotels in Tokyo. The service is always good, but always feels a little impersonal....like it's just the result of good training, good processes and good information technology without much character. The other thing that bugs me about the new hotels is the lobbies. I think the finance guys have taken over and demanded that any space that doesn't generate revenue needs to be minimized. All the new hotels in Tokyo really lack character. There's no sense of identity. No grandeur. No tranquility. No sense of serenity. No nothing.

So anyway I decided to give Aman Tokyo a try. In short... it's worth going just to stay there. Stunning lobby. Incredible views. Food was excellent. Great ambiance in the restaurant and bar. Service was close to impeccable and incredibly friendly (not surprising for opening night.) The rooms were a bit too zen for my taste....I prefer a little less spartan and a bit more decoration. That said the rooms are really well laid out, great views, very comfortable, very spacious and the bath and shower are pretty amazing. Spa and gym are very good. Pool is fantastic....33 meters... view of Mt. Fuji during the day and city lights at night.

By far and away the nicest hotel in Tokyo.... maybe the nicest big city hotel period.

I'll post a more detailed report and photos when I have time.