The Okura Tokyo

BACKGROUND The Okura Tokyo opened in 1962 and closed in 2015 for a reconstruction by architect Yoshio Taniguchi. The new structures remain faithful to the original design and include a recreation of the former lobby.

- Hannah Brandler

The hotel reopened in September 2019 and the site (known as Okura Square) houses the Okura Museum of Art (free for guests) and two perpendicular buildings - the 17-storey Heritage Wing, for more private stays, and the 41-storey high-rise Prestige Tower, home to guest rooms, dining and leisure facilities and offices. A covered walkway on the ground floor connects the two buildings.

WHERE IS IT? In the city's Toranomon business district. The main entrance is opposite the US embassy.

WHAT'S IT LIKE? While it has had a modern makeover, The Okura retains its old-school glamour and nods to the past with Japanese artworks and materials. The glistening buildings rise up from a granite square, with a peaceful willow tree and water feature opposite.

The Heritage Wing is understated and designed to resemble a hanare, a Japanese dwelling that is separate from the main building. The tranquil reception space on the ground floor (5F) has just two desks and a bellhop area, with a wisteria flower-shaped chandelier cascading down the staircase to the lower ground level (4F).