Shangri-La Hotel, Tokyo

Whether the Tokyo hotel market is crowded with high-end lodgings or merely presents a wealth of upscale choices is perhaps a matter of perspective. But whatever the challenges hoteliers face, it’s a great time to be a guest; Tokyo is arguably the luxury-hotel capital of the world, and hotels like the Shangri-La are the reason why.

For a new high-end hotel you couldn’t pick a better spot. Shangri-La Hotel, Tokyo stands just yards away from Tokyo Station, incidentally putting to rest any fears about a nightmare airport commute, and you’re at the top of one of the new towers that make up the Marunouchi commercial and retail district. The views are extraordinary, and the rooms aren’t shabby either; the Shangri-La’s trademark far-east fantasy translates well to Tokyo, updated with some shapely modern furnishings and the latest in high-tech in-room gadgetry.

You haven’t lived until you’ve gone for a swim (don’t forget that bathing cap) 29 floors above the streets of Tokyo, and you haven’t dined until you’ve had Italian at Piacere with a view over the Imperial Gardens, the one part of Tokyo that’s actually dark at night. And the neighborhood that surrounds is a luxury shopper’s paradise — you might have to send some bags back to the hotel before you even get all the way to the Ginza.

Please note: This hotel offers both smoking and non-smoking rooms.

How to get there:
Narita Airport is about 35 miles (60 km) from central Tokyo. The most convenient way to get into town is to take the JR East Narita Express Train (about one hour).