The Okura Tokyo

The original 1962 version of the Okura Tokyo was a mid-century modernist classic, designed by architect Yoshiro Taniguchi, and while it remained in service long enough for its style to come back in fashion, it was demolished in 2019. Its replacement, however, may be less historically significant, but it’s scarcely less stylish — its public spaces, in fact, were designed by Yoshio Taniguchi, the son of the original architect, in a style that pays tribute to its Sixties incarnation, and re-creates in detail a number of its more memorable spaces, including its iconic lobby.

Aesthetics aside, however, this is as modern a luxury hotel as you’re likely to find, in Tokyo or anywhere else. Even the Heritage Wing’s rooms and suites, an exercise in traditional Japanese design, are thoroughly contemporary in their construction and their comforts. The 41-story Prestige Tower that makes up the bulk of the new Okura’s space offers extraordinary elevated views of the city, and in all units, the comforts are first-rate, especially the lavish and high-tech bathrooms.

The Okura’s 25-meter swimming pool and expansive fitness center are complemented by a 26th-floor spa in partnership with the cosmetics brand Annayake; also on site are no fewer than seven restaurants and bars, including French fine dining at Nouvelle Epoque, multiple Japanese venues, and the top-floor Starlight Bar & Lounge, with what might be the finest view in the house.