HOTEL THE CELESTINE GINZA

Ginza is something like Tokyo’s version of New York’s Fifth Avenue — a famous commercial district that’s home to retail flagships, luxury shops, department stores, and more than a few high-end hotels. To that number we can add a newcomer, a member of a Japanese chain to join the international brands in one of the city’s highest-stakes neighborhoods. Hotel The Celestine Ginza suits it surroundings to a tee, a vision in warm, stately stone, with an imposing façade that promises luxury, tranquility, discretion, and professional service — the latter courtesy of the sharply dressed doorman who stands at attention outside.

Needless to say — if it’s found its way into Tablet’s august pages — what the Celestine’s exterior promises, its interior amply delivers. The guest rooms double down on warmth and comfort, decorated in earth tones and gently scented by the unmistakable Bulgari bath products. All are equipped with Nespresso coffee makers and Japanese-made Imabari towels; some come with living rooms or lounge corners, but even the most basic rooms begin at a comfortable 23 and a half square meters. Meanwhile the Celestine’s top floor is given over to Casita, the sequel to Aoyama’s highly regarded Italian restaurant of the same name.