China & Japan Cultural Contrasts Private Tour

The 24-story Peninsula has the best luxury hotel location in Tokyo, directly across from enchanting Hibiya Park (opened in 1903 as Japan’s first Western-style park, the lush, greenery of Hibiya makes it great for AM walks and even a 5k run), Imperial grounds, and adjacent to the amazing Ginza shopping district. Envisioned by architect Kuzukiyo Sato to look like a giant Japanese stone lantern, the freestanding Peninsula combines subtle Japanese hospitality with the Peninsula tradition of understated luxury.

The 24-story Peninsula has the best luxury hotel location in Tokyo, directly across from enchanting Hibiya Park (opened in 1903 as Japan’s first Western-style park, the lush, greenery of Hibiya makes it great for AM walks and even a 5k run!), Imperial grounds, and adjacent to the amazing Ginza shopping district. Envisioned by architect Kuzukiyo Sato to look like a giant Japanese stone lantern, the freestanding Peninsula combines subtle Japanese hospitality with the Peninsula tradition of understated luxury.

Though we are big fans of Aman in China/Southeast Asia, we initially felt a bit ambivalent about the 84-room Aman in a noisy, urban environment like Tokyo. Located in the 40-story Otemachi Tower, within walking distance of Ginza shopping/dining and the Otemachi Forest (Marunouchi’s Naki-dori tree-lined avenue), perhaps the most impressive sight of the Aman Tokyo is its magnificent 33rd-floor lobby entrance featuring huge floor to ceiling windows with a view of the Imperial Palace grounds and even Mt. Fuji on clear days(!). Centered in a large garden, there is an arrangement of Shoji lanterns and a washi-like ceiling that gives the area a Zen-like Japanese feel. Unlike Aman’s in most parts of the world that ban TVs in the rooms, the Aman Tokyo includes a flat-screen TV for those of us who need a daily BBC fix (!).

Though we are big fans of Aman in China/Southeast Asia, we initially felt a bit ambivalent about the 84-room Aman in a noisy, urban environment like Tokyo. Located in the 40-story Otemachi Tower, within walking distance of Ginza shopping/dining and the Otemachi Forest (Marunouchi’s Naki-dori tree-lined avenue), perhaps the most impressive sight of the Aman Tokyo is its magnificent 33rd-floor lobby entrance featuring huge floor to ceiling windows with a view of the Imperial Palace grounds and even Mt. Fuji on clear days(!). The shoji-lantered area is centered on a large garden and a washi-like ceiling that gives the area a Zen-like Japanese feel. Unlike Aman’s in most parts of the world that ban TVs in the rooms, the Aman Tokyo includes a flat-screen TV for those of us who need a daily BBC fix (!).

Similar to Tawaraya Ryokan (just across the alleyway), Hiiragiya is considered among the most noteworthy and famous ryokans in all of Japan. Improbably, two of the most famous luxury ryokans in all of Japan stand directly across from each other! A stay at Hiiragiya or Tawaraya represents a complete immersion into traditional Japanese culture. Enclosed in a traditional sukiya-style wooden structure, Hiiragiya was conceived in 1818 when Hiiragiya, a seafood dealer, began providing accommodation to traveling merchants. Later, Hiiragiya welcomed many members of the imperial family including writers/governing officials/international celebrities. Proprietress Akami Nishimura only modestly acknowledges the many celebrities and world leaders who have stayed here (including Charlie Chaplain many decades ago). We give an A+ to both the Tawaraya and Hiiragiya, although we feel Hiiragiya is perhaps more accommodating and open to Western eccentricities.

Similar to Tawaraya Ryokan (just across the alleyway), Hiiragiya is considered among the most noteworthy and famous ryokans in all of Japan. Improbably, two of the most famous luxury ryokans in all of Japan stand directly across from each other! A stay at Hiiragiya or Tawaraya represents a complete immersion into traditional Japanese culture. Enclosed in a traditional sukiya-style wooden structure, Hiiragiya was conceived in 1818 when Hiiragiya, a seafood dealer, began providing accommodation to traveling merchants. Later, Hiiragiya welcomed many members of the imperial family including writers/governing officials/international celebrities. Proprietress Akami Nishimura only modestly acknowledges the many celebrities and world leaders who have stayed here (including Charlie Chaplain many decades ago). We give an A+ to both the Tawaraya and Hiiragiya, although we feel Hiiragiya is perhaps more accommodating and open to Western eccentricities.

We feel the 134-room luxury Ritz-Carlton Kyoto to be our favorite Western 5-star property in Kyoto. Though we are not always fans of The Ritz-Carlton brand (preferring a less-pretentious, more understated style of luxyr), the property’s rectangular, low-slung property has definitely piqued our interest. Ideally situated along the Kamogawa River, The Ritz features glass floor-to-ceiling windows with views of the Higashiyama Mountains. The property was built on a site adored by 17^th century Japanese nobility and replicates the aesthetics of a traditional Meiji House, making its design quite impressive (including a French Haute Patisserie!). Amenities and facilities include four onsite restaurants and bars (including Michelin-starred Tempura Mizuki!), a sleek indoor pool, a serene stone and bamboo pathway, a sweets shop, and a spa offering traditional Japanese wellness treatments as well as Western facial and body massage treatments. Make sure to check out the 409 modern Japanese art pieces displayed around the hotel and take in the peaceful essence of the bonsai tree and garden!

With the Hyatt Regency Kyoto having been the only western 5-star luxury hotel in Kyoto, we were excited about the February 2014 opening of the 134-room Ritz Carlton Kyoto, which we feel is not only the best +100 room hotel in Japan, but perhaps all of Asia. Living in a Mies van der Rohe high-rise in Chicago, we feel a particular affinity to the Hyatt Regency’s simple, clean, architectural design. Nevertheless, the new Ritz Carlton’s rectangular, low-slung property, ideally situated in the Kamogawa River, has quickly become the highest quality 5-Star western hotel in Kyoto. Replicating the aesthetics and exterior of a traditional Meiji House, the design and amenities of the Ritz are quite impressive, creating a luxurious sanctuary. Luxury amenities include the best macaroons in all of Japan, a spacious 24-hr fitness center, an EPSA spa, a beautiful 60’ indoor pool, and a French Haute Patisserie. Though we are not big fans of the Ritz global brand (prefer AMAN/Peninsula/Mandarin/Four Seasons) we give A+ kudos for their property in Kyoto! The Ritz Carlton Kyoto perfectly captures Omotenashi, the art of selfless hospitality, a cornerstone of Japanese culture.

Aman Tokyo covers 72 acres of native forest and eight acres of traditional Japanese gardens. We are particularly impressed with the property’s location in the Takagamine district, walking distance to Kinkaku-ji (Golden Temple)! The property features spacious and light-filled interiors, similar to traditional ryokans; natural hot springs; and spectacular dining celebrating the unique culinary traditions of Japan using the finest local produce. With large floor-to-ceiling windows, the outside is brought in, allowing for a complete escape in total luxury.

With Kyoto being our favorite city in Asia, we are most excited about the new 24-room Aman Kyoto, just opened in November 2019. The 80-acre site includes 72 acres of native forest and eight acres of traditional Japanese gardens. We are particularly impressed with the property’s location in the Takagamine district, walking distance to Kinkaku-ji (Golden Temple)! The property features spacious and light-filled interiors, similar to traditional ryokans; natural hot springs; and spectacular dining celebrating the unique culinary traditions of Japan using the finest local produce. With large floor-to-ceiling windows, the outside is brought in, allowing for a complete escape in total luxury.

In contrast to the more grandiose pretension of the Peninsula/Kowloon, the Mandarin Oriental Hong Kong truly represents understated luxury. Whenever we return we are always reminded why we love this property: unpretentious, singular luxury coupled with a very sincere, friendly staff that evokes a home away from home feeling. The 2005 renovation resulted in the new Mandarin’s former balconies being converted to lounge/study area extensions, with stunning Victoria Harbor views. Zen and Sofia especially like the bathroom/amenities, including the vertical, swivel plasma TV/mirrors—so unique! We feel perhaps no other 5-star deluxe property in Hong Kong offers such a luxurious, peaceful oasis from the noisy, frenetic city as the Mandarin: an A+ in our book!

In contrast to the more grandiose pretension of the Peninsula/Kowloon, the Mandarin Oriental Hong Kong truly represents understated luxury. Whenever we return we are always reminded why we love this property: unpretentious, singular luxury coupled with a very sincere, friendly staff that evokes a home away from home feeling. The 2005 renovation resulted in the new Mandarin’s former balconies being converted to lounge/study area extensions, with stunning Victoria Harbor views. Zen and Sofia especially like the bathroom/amenities, including the vertical, swivel plasma TV/mirrors—so unique! We feel perhaps no other 5 star deluxe property in Hong Kong offers such a luxurious, peaceful oasis from the noisy, frenetic city as the Mandarin: an A+ in our book!

Located in the city’s Central Business (Chaoyang) District, across from the iconic CCTV Tower, we feel the 283-room/22-story Rosewood to be among the most impressive 5-star hotels in all of Beijing. Our feedback from corporate clients staying here recently has been most positive! Meaning to recall the ruggedness of a mountain in order to contrast the serenity that awaits inside, the property’s exterior is quite unique with its Mongolian-sourced bluestone walls (and two spectacular large bronze lions). A commonality of traditional Chinese architecture, you enter the hotel through an ornate inner courtyard. A local Beijing guide we use spoke glowingly about the classical Chinese gardens (completed by a landscaping company from Thailand) that surround the property and the general “hutong” style lobby layout. The Rosewood includes 6 restaurants, a luxury 32,000 sq. ft. Sense Spa, a fitness center, and a striking 9,000 ft. indoor pool on the 6th floor. The 800 sq. ft. Manor Suites are preferred.

Located in the city’s Central Business (Chaoyang) District, across from the iconic CCTV Tower, we feel the  283-room/22-story Rosewood to be among the most impressive 5-star hotels in all of Beijing. Our feedback from corporate clients staying here recently has been most positive! Meaning to recall the ruggedness of a mountain in order to contrast the serenity that awaits inside, the property’s exterior is quite unique with its Mongolian-sourced bluestone walls (and two spectacular large bronze lions). A commonality of traditional Chinese architecture, you enter the hotel through an ornate inner courtyard. A local Beijing guide we use spoke glowingly about the classical Chinese gardens (completed by a landscaping company from Thailand) that surround the property and the general “hutong” style lobby layout. The Rosewood includes 6 restaurants, a luxury 32,000 sq. ft. Sense Spa, a fitness center, and a striking 9,000 ft. indoor pool on the 6th floor. The 800 sq. ft. Manor Suites are preferred.

Having stayed at nearly all of the 5-star hotels in Shanghai, we can respectfully proclaim the Peninsula Shanghai as not only the best luxury hotel in Shanghai but the #1 luxury hotel in all of China! We fully believe the Peninsula on the Bund has no real peer, at least not in China. Although built nearly three years ago, the property is at home architecturally with the 1920s Art Deco and Neo-classical buildings adjacent to the Bund. We particularly loved the Art Deco-emblazoned elevators. Notwithstanding the Art Deco-inspired design, the Peninsula Shanghai rooms reflect the spaciousness and amenities of its sister property in Tokyo. The Grand Deluxe River View rooms are large, over 600 square feet, with impressive 46″ plasma televisions and panoramic views of the Pudong skyline and Huangpu River. Two very convenient amenities include a wonderful Nespresso coffee machine and complimentary VOIP (Voice-Over Internet Protocol) in the rooms – so convenient for calling family and friends back home!

Having stayed at nearly all of the 5-star hotels in Shanghai, we can respectfully proclaim the Peninsula Shanghai as not only the best luxury hotel in Shanghai but the #1 luxury hotel in all of China! We fully believe the Peninsula on the Bund has no real peer, at least not in China. Although built nearly three years ago, the property is at home architecturally with the 1920s Art Deco and Neo-classical buildings adjacent to the Bund. We particularly loved the Art Deco-emblazoned elevators. Notwithstanding the Art Deco-inspired design, the Peninsula Shanghai rooms reflect the spaciousness and amenities of its sister property in Tokyo. The Grand Deluxe River View rooms are large, over 600 square feet, with impressive 46″ plasma televisions and panoramic views of the Pudong skyline and Huangpu River. Two very convenient amenities include a wonderful Nespresso coffee machine and complimentary VOIP (Voice-Over Internet Protocol) in the rooms – so convenient for calling family and friends back home!

Receiving five stars in the Forbes Travel Guide, the Palace Hotel Tokyo is quickly emerging as one of the best luxury properties in Tokyo. Just five minutes from The Peninsula Tokyo (!), the Palace is located directly in front of the Imperial Palace and gardens, “Otemon Gate,” neighborhood of Aman, perfect for quick excursions, shopping, sightseeing, and night-walking. While we prefer the quiet serenity of properties with less than 200 rooms total, the Palace features 266 rooms and 18 suites that make up for its busyness with spacious contemporary designs and balconies with breathtaking views of the Imperial Palace. Additional amenities include ten (!) in-house restaurants and bars, a sizeable pool, and a wellness center with fitness and gym options. Don’t forget to visit the alpine-inspired Evian Spa, which features a giant private pool with floor-to-ceiling views of Tokyo (with Mt. Fuji in the distance!), daily yoga sessions, and a variety of facial, body, and ritualistic massage treatments.

Receiving five stars in the Forbes Travel Guide, the Palace Hotel Tokyo is quickly emerging as one of the best luxury properties in Tokyo. Just five minutes from The Peninsula Tokyo (!), the Palace is located directly in front of the Imperial Palace and gardens, “Otemon Gate,” neighborhood of Aman, perfect for quick excursions, shopping, sightseeing, and night-walking. While we prefer the quiet serenity of properties with less than 200 rooms total, the Palace features 266 rooms and 18 suites that make up for its busyness with spacious contemporary designs and balconies with breathtaking views of the Imperial Palace. Additional amenities include ten (!) in-house restaurants and bars, a sizeable pool, and a wellness center with fitness and gym options. Don’t forget to visit the alpine-inspired Evian Spa, which features a giant private pool with floor-to-ceiling views of Tokyo (with Mt. Fuji in the distance!), daily yoga sessions, and a variety of facial, body, and ritualistic massage treatments.