Park Hyatt Tokyo: What to Expect
In the lead up to staying here, I watched ‘Lost in Translation’ for the first time — I know, I’m very behind.
The movie was charming and I was even more delighted that the Park Hyatt Tokyo was so prominently featured. However, I knew that I’d be visiting a property that underwent a major renovation just recently and it may not look the same as it did in the movie, so my expectations were tempered.
What I found when I arrived was a property that was refreshed yet stayed true to the original, striking design. The hospitality that welcomed Bill Murray’s character (a big-time movie star in the film) was no exaggeration, nor was it reserved only for celebrities. I normally enjoy bringing my bag up to my room because I can then relax immediately, but it was obvious from the outset that my hosts would have none of that. It was almost as if me dealing with my own luggage in the hallways was a faux pas.
This is absolutely not a gripe; it’s an amusing observation of the cultural dance that exists at this Park Hyatt.
If you’ve read any of my other reviews of Park Hyatt properties (Chicago, Bangkok, Dubai and Istanbul are among my favorites), you know that I usually reserve this stay for the last day or last couple of days that I’m in a city. It’s the hotel I go to when I want to be a hermit, gather myself, and get as much rest as possible before heading home. The Park Hyatt Tokyo is a gorgeous place to do just that.
What’s Great About the Park Hyatt Tokyo
The Hospitality/Service
Everyone is very attentive to the guests that are staying at the property and greet you with such warmth. I would say my general preference is to disappear when I’m at a hotel because as I said a bit earlier I’m a hermit at heart. However, I did appreciate the hospitality and getting to engage with my hosts. It really is remarkable to watch the well-choreographed movements of a team working together to make sure every guest feels comfortable. One of my last memories of Tokyo was getting into a taxi headed to the airport and waving goodbye to at least 3 staff standing just outside the car door waving and wishing me safe travels. Again, it was so utterly charming.
The Design
Every corner of the Park Hyatt Tokyo is a gorgeous play of geometry. It’s one of the most visually pleasing properties I’ve been to. I found myself taking photos of how the light shines through the windows and of course one of the most iconic settings of the entire hotel, the pool area.
There are some idiosyncrasies to this hotel like the dimly lit, hedge-maze-type hallways but otherwise the public areas are so full of character and dotted with little sitting areas that give you a chance to linger and maybe sit with your journal while you take in the perfect view of Mt. Fuji. Yes I did this for a couple of hours after my late checkout and before the New York Bar opened.
The Iconic New York Bar
Speaking of the New York Bar, please do not leave before taking the opportunity to visit and have a drink or some nibbles at the bar. I don’t even drink and there was a great selection of delicious mocktails. I originally made reservations at the restaurant but cancelled them once I realized that there was a larger food menu I could enjoy just sitting at the bar. And don’t worry if you’re alone, I noticed at least one other person (with a book, no less) who was there by themselves. It was a comfortable spot to grab a bite, listen to live music and take in the atmosphere. It’s the kind of space I wish I could frequent at home.
A Few Helpful Tips Before You Stay at the Park Hyatt Tokyo
· Even if you’re jetlagged, try and set a timer for sunrise and keep your window shades up before you sleep. I swear every time I woke up I was floored by how beautiful the light was, especially with Mt. Fuji right there. Even if you go straight back to sleep again afterwards, it’s worth it.
· There are full size bottles of Aesop hand soap, bodywash, shampoo, and conditioner in the bathrooms, plus a Dyson hairdryer in the vanity area if you get a suite.
· You will likely get lost in the hallways, it’s okay. Your fellow guests are having the exact same experience.
· IF you want to see any of the books that are in the glass cases of the library area, all you need to do is ask one of the hotel staff to help you get it out (the cabinets are locked).
· There are bathrobes hanging in the bathroom AND house robes in the drawers of the closet.
· Don’t forget your swimmers, you’ll want the chance to get into the pool made famous in ‘Lost in Translation’.
Is There Room Service at the Park Hyatt Tokyo?
Yes, room service is available, and it’s very easy to use. In the document box in your room (where you’ll find stationery and hotel information) there’s a QR code you can scan to order directly from your phone. It gives you an estimated delivery time, which is always appreciated.
I ordered the pork katsu sandwich with a side of fries, and it was exactly what I wanted after a long day. It also came with a little rose in a vase as part of the table setting.
What is the Globalist Breakfast at the Park Hyatt Tokyo?
One of the standout benefits for Globalist members is breakfast. You have the option of a Japanese set breakfast or the buffet. If you’re planning on the Japanese breakfast, it’s worth flagging this at check-in as they only serve a limited number each morning.
I chose the Japanese breakfast, but the buffet looked exceptional. It made me wish I was staying one more day to try it.
A small but memorable detail: during breakfast service, a chef comes around with a tray of freshly baked madeleines, still warm from the oven. They’re delicate, soft, and exactly the kind of thoughtful touch that Park Hyatt Tokyo does so well.
What is the Globalist Gift at the Park Hyatt Tokyo?
The Globalist gift was surprisingly minimalist. It was two perfectly matched oranges, accompanied by a card noting their place of origin (complete with a map) and a message saying the staff would be delighted to assist if I needed help opening them. I had a good laugh about that, and while I would have liked to know if there was some magical way to open the oranges I just did it myself.
They tasted beautiful, just like every single piece of fruit I had in Japan was.
If anyone reading this does know what the staff does with the oranges or makes the call for help during an upcoming stay at the hotel, please let me know!
What is the Gym Like at the Park Hyatt Tokyo?
Even if you’re not planning to work out, it’s worth visiting the fitness and pool area. The pool in particular is iconic, and the geometry of the windows and ceiling is visually stunning.
The gym itself is split into two distinct areas that straddle the pool. One side is focused on weight machines and heavier lifting, while the other houses cardio equipment and a more open space suitable for stretching or bodyweight exercises. I happily found a stationary bike with a great view of the city and got in my cardio.
Like every Hyatt gym, there were plenty of extra bottles of water available here.
Why I’d Choose to Stay at the Park Hyatt Tokyo Again
I always assumed my experience at the Park Hyatt Tokyo would be a one and done kind of experience. I wanted to see what the hype was about but with the steep price it’s not the most economical way to get my 60 nights a year to keep my Globalist status.
The longer I stayed at the property, the more I did start to see how special the place is. First, it was the comfort and amenities in the room. Then it was the thoughtful breakfast enjoyed in one of the booths of the restaurant that started to pull me in a bit more. Wandering back to my temporary living quarters and becoming more familiar with how to locate my floor and room, I started to feel even more comfortable, like I was at my own residence. Then spending a couple of hours at the bar sealed the deal and made me start thinking that this might have to be a tradition when I come to Tokyo.
If you so choose to spend one or a few of your precious days in Tokyo at this property, I’m certain you’ll come away with the same sentiment.