The second Four Seasons in Tokyo is all about the views and, naturally, everything in the hotel is designed to capitalise on its prime real estate. Located on the upper floors of Otemachi One Tower in the financial district of Otemachi, the hotel is right at the edge of the Imperial Palace, which means you get a splendid, unobstructed view of the lush royal grounds – a rare treat in this city – with the rest of Tokyo stretching as far as the eye can see.
You’ll be able to enjoy this signature view from anywhere in the hotel: the lobby lounge where decadent afternoon tea is served, the rooms including the baths (some rooms look out to the city and Tokyo Tower instead, which is still not too shabby), the well-equipped gym, as well as the Italian restaurant Pigneto. The surprisingly chic indoor swimming pool offers the same landmark panorama, but with the added bonus of Tokyo Skytree.
As expected of Four Seasons, the lofty rooms and suites here, with their floor-to-ceiling picture windows, are top of the class. They are contemporary in design but grounded in Japanese aesthetics, fitted with luxurious modern comforts including a coffee machine and iPad for controlling the in-room utilities as well as communicating with the staff. Should you want to be pampered further, the hotel also has a spa while the steam room and ofuro (Japanese baths) are open to all staying guests, even without a spa appointment.
Aside from Pigneto, Four Seasons Otemachi also houses French-Japanse restaurant Est and a handsome cocktail bar called Virtu, featuring art-deco stylings reminiscent of The Great Gatsby. Better yet, the two restaurants each offer a highly coveted outdoor terrace, making them one of the best places in Tokyo for a sundowner.