I am lucky enough to travel to Tokyo quite a lot and I always stay at the Okura (South Wing). Colleagues ask me why when I can stay at one of the massive chain hotels, also on the approved list. The answer is pretty simple - you just cannot fault the Okura for price, location and for comfort.
A previous reviewer commented on the decor seeming old fashioned. It's like stepping into my nan's living room with brown and orange geometric patterned carpets and 70s furniture. It's not true to say that it hasn't been renovated, though. Part of the beauty of the Okura is that they *do* renovate it every few years - they just keep it the same way and I kind of like that.
Over the past few years, major chains such as the Grand Hyatt, Conrad (and most recently) the Ritz Carlton have opened up in Tokyo, but I am a big fan of the Japanese-style service at the Okura - honestly nothing is too much trouble, and the response time is ludicrously fast when you call for help - laundry, iron etc. The big chains and their attempt to instill some "americana" into Japan result in a dilution of the excellent Japanese service ethic, which as visitors will know, is out of this world, but very rule-bound.
Top tip for frequent visitors is the Okura Club International which you can join for nothing and entitles bearers to free usage of the pool, showers and o-furo (bath) which you would normally have to pay for. In addition, you get two laundry vouchers for complimentary shirt wash and press (really handy) and a drinks voucher, which is perfect for a quick glass of wine before you hit the sack.
I have spent many a night in the Highlander Bar which is possibly the tackiest Scottish theme bar in the world, but apparently a favourite of John Lennon and Yoko Ono (The Okura's Presidential Suite was home for the lovely couple during their time in Tokyo, I am told). Even if this is an urban myth, I don't care. I really can't imagine John and Yoko sitting amongst the crap Scottish memorabilia, but I hope it's true.
I have only ever eaten at the Chinese restaurant in the Okura - To Ka Lin - and it is exquisite. Expensive though, but it is supposedly the best Chinese restaurant in Japan. Not sure about that - take a trip to Yokohama's Chinatown - but it is very good if you're feeling lazy and can't be bothered to venture out of the hotel.
If you're heading to Tokyo, whether it's business or pleasure, I definitely recommend the Okura. 70s kitsch, crap Scottish bar - it's all good.
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