A Date With Tokyo

Tokyo is one of the few destinations in the world that has an all-year round appeal. I found myself making yet another trip to one of my favourite countries, a nation that combines a rich cultural and artistic heritage with a technological prowess and strong work ethos.

- Sheetal Rastogi

Little wonder, they have earned the title of being world leaders, something they wear lightly and humbly, again in line with their national character.

Choosing to stay in the heart of town was a good decision. The Prince Gallery Tokyo Kioicho, a Luxury Collection Hotel, the newest Starwood property in Japan is located in the Chiyoda Ward neighbourhood in Tokyo, 1 km from the National Diet Building and the Japan Imperial Palace. Other landmarks such as the Shimizudani Park and Benkei Canal are also within walking distance.

Interestingly, as is the case with most of the hotels in Japan, Prince Gallery Tokyo Kioicho too is housed within a large building. So while the outside façade gives the name of the hotel, the hotel itself is confined to the 30th to 36th floor of the Tokyo Garden Terrace Tower. Its functional and efficient reception leads you to a well planned set of interiors that have 250 guest rooms, each with a magnificent view of the city. The 35th floor is where most of the action is with a signature bar, specialty restaurants, indoor pool, fitness centre, spa, conference rooms and a business centre.

The concierge desk was my main reference point in getting the maximum out of the two days that I had at my disposal in the capital city of Japan. A meticulous plan was etched out and reservations made so I could get a flavour of the traditional and modern side of the city. While I relied mostly on cabs, the metro is barely a five minute walk from the hotel. I was fortunate to have the hotel help me embark on an interesting, hand picked city tour.

Sumo wrestlers in action