Its design concept is based upon that of a single living tree and features ying and yang cascading water and fire elements. Spacious bedrooms, situated high up in the hotel’s branches float serenely above the hectic pace of the city below providing a haven of peace and comfort. Floor to ceiling windows throughout promote an acute sense of space, displaying sublime views over the Imperial Palace and Mount Fuji, Tokyo Sky Tree, the Sumida River and Tokyo Bay.
The Mandarin Oriental Tokyo’s location stands upon “the point from which distances between Tokyo and other points in Japan were measured” and this fascinating 400-year-old neighbourhood was once the cultural and commercial centre of the city and famous for its specialist kimono artisans. It’s upon this history, that Japanese designer Reiko Sudo selected her team of master craftsmen and weavers from all over Japan and displays their custom made fabrics and textures throughout the hotel. All of these elements, water, fire and the considered use of woven material, come together to give a harmonious feeling of nature and tranquillity.
The Mandarin’s standout luxurious Spa is the place for a lesson in pampering with its sky view sauna, hot spring onsen baths and crystal steam room, set against a backdrop of glass and endless sky.
Tokyo retains its status as the world’s leading gourmet destination having received overall more Michelin starts than any other city. The Mandarin Tokyo is the only hotel within Tokyo, to have been awarded a total of 3 stars for its restaurants, Cantonese “Sense” restaurant, elegant French inspired “Signature” and innovative Tapas Molecular whose head chef was trained at El Bulli.
With Tokyo as the sushi capital of the world, the Mandarin’s newly opened Sushi Sora is certainly well worth a visit. Diners at its 8-seater counter made of 350 year old Japanese cypress can experience a mesmerising “Edo-mae” style (traditional) sushi menu degustation, whilst enjoying a spectacular backdrop of Tokyo’s skyline and red moon, rising like the centre piece of Japan’s national flag.
Trained sushi masters carefully prepare each delectable and marinated sushi portion using seasonal fish carefully selected from Tokyo’s epic fish market. Such treats include swordfish brushed with wasabi and soy, fatty tuna, artfully sliced squid and delightful herring roe. Wash down with sake or choose from a fine selection of wines from the hotels rather extensive wine cellar – with 4000 bottles to choose from, perhaps that will be the most challenging part of your stay!
Article written by Lizzy Prosser
Correspondent, Connoisseur Magazine
