Hotel in Tokyo
 

My wife and I are flying in to Haneda and will stay overnight in Tokyo and then take the bullet train to meet our daughter in Kyoto. So, we just need a hotel in Tokyo for one night (although I think we arrive in the early afternoon) and are looking for recommendations. I assume we will take a train or taxi into the city. Would it make sense to stay at a hotel near the train station? Especially on the day we arrive, I am happy to have an executive club / lounge (Hilton or Marriott) but not necessary.

Thanks.

JR metropolitan maranouchi. Easy to get to and right near the Shinkansen entrance and great breakfast. Then again I don't know what and how $$$$$ rates are these days. I don't touch western chains in japan unless on free nights.

With an afternoon arrival, you could just go straight to Kyoto - It adds 2.5 hours to your journey, but I guess you want to (a) see Tokyo or (b) get some rest?

For the journey to Kyoto, you can start at Tokyo Station (as previous posters suggest), Shinagawa Station, or Shin Yokohama Station. So a hotel within striking distance of one of those stations is ideal. Your choice depends on how price conscious you are and whether you're interested in seeing Tokyo or just planning to relax.

Shinagawa area would probably be best if you want to spend a night in Tokyo before heading out. Easy access from HND to Shinagawa on the Keikyu Line and then easy Shinkansen access from Shinagawa to Kyoto.

Absolutely pick something close to the train station, as that is really the only sensible way to do Tokyo. I always like to search for hotels on Google maps that are closest to the stations I will be relying on the most. They make it very easy to search by dates, and the reviews are about as comprehensive and reliable as you will find anywhere. Search for Shinagawa Station and Tokyo station, and click on the Hotels bubble at the top of the map (either option is perfect for your needs). Of course, the map is also ideal for planning how to get around by transit.

Thanks @Topcare. Made a reservation at the Marounichi. Looked very nice. Not inexpensive but not crazy for a nice urban hotel. I will take a look @downinit at Shinagawa Station as well.

Yes, @jib71, we do want to see a little of Tokyo. We have not been there since our daughter, now 31, was in 3rd grade, when we took a family trip. She has very pretty blue eyes that were almost electric blue at the age. On our entire trip, people we did not know just walked up to her and gave her presents. On the subway, in stores, etc. and in various parts of Japan. They did not give gifts to her brother who was with here but who has brown eyes. We assumed it was the blue eyes, but in fact we were not sure. If it was the eyes, I assume that as an adult, they will not be giving her random presents.

I think you’re fine at the Metropolitan. It will require you to make one change of train on the way into Tokyo, which is less convenient than Shinagawa on paper, but it can’t be beaten for access to the Shinkansen the next morning, and Tokyo station is prettier than Shinagawa station, although both areas are dominated by large office towers.

Fair point about the extra train. Op can take the bus too. That's a more proximate drop although unlike nrt bus that drops you in front of the entrance to the hotel.

How frequent are the buses? I guess It's OK if your arrival is conveniently timed.

• Monorail leaves every few minutes. Connection to JR Yamanote Line at Hamamatsucho is relatively painless. That would be my preference.
• Option B - Take a Keikyu train that connects through to the Asakusa Line. Get off at Nihonbashi and hail a cab or walk (400m) from there.
• Option C - Taxi all the way.

Don't plan on taking Monorail + Taxi . Construction work at Haamatsucho station makes it a pain in the ... to get from the monorail to the street.