Marriott International has officially opened its first JW Marriott hotel in Japan's capital, the JW Marriott Hotel Tokyo. The new property is located in the Takanawa Gateway City redevelopment area, offering travelers a new luxury option conveniently situated near Haneda Airport (HND).
Key Takeaways
- The JW Marriott Hotel Tokyo is the brand's first property in the Japanese capital, positioned as a flagship hotel.
- The hotel features 200 guest rooms, including 30 suites, designed by the firm Yabu Pushelberg.
- A key feature is the brand's first-ever "JW Mindful Floor," which integrates wellness facilities like a spa, pool, and specialized rooms.
- Dining options include seven bars and restaurants, one of which is an omakase concept led by two Michelin-starred chefs.
- The hotel is located in Takanawa, an area known for its historical significance and modern transportation links.
A New Luxury Destination in Tokyo
The JW Marriott Hotel Tokyo marks a significant expansion for the brand in Japan. Positioned within the new Takanawa Gateway City complex, the hotel aims to serve both business and leisure travelers looking for high-end accommodations. According to the hotel's general manager, Chris Clark, this property is the first JW Marriott in the capital region and is intended to be a flagship location for the brand in the country.
"Among the many luxury hotels in Tokyo, we are uniquely positioned as the only luxury hotel within the redevelopment area of Takanawa Gateway City," Clark stated in an interview. This location provides a unique advantage, combining modern infrastructure with a historically rich neighborhood.
The Significance of Takanawa
Takanawa once served as the historical entrance to ancient Edo, the former name of Tokyo. Today, it is a quieter residential district that maintains its cultural heritage while benefiting from extensive modern transportation networks. Its proximity to Haneda Airport and major train lines makes it an accessible base for exploring the city.
Design and Accommodations
The hotel's interior was designed by the acclaimed firm Yabu Pushelberg. The design concept, described as moving "from darkness to light," is woven throughout the property. The hotel offers 200 rooms, which include 30 suites. These rooms feature large windows that provide expansive views of the Tokyo skyline.
The overall aesthetic of the hotel draws from a philosophy of Zen, blending the cultural heritage of Takanawa with contemporary sophistication. "In the midst of this vibrant city, we provide a sanctuary where guests can experience tranquility and peace," Clark explained. This theme is central to the guest experience, aiming to offer a calm retreat from the urban environment.
Focus on Wellness and Mindfulness
A standout feature of the new hotel is the introduction of the brand's first "JW Mindful Floor." This dedicated level combines several wellness-focused amenities to create an integrated experience for guests seeking relaxation and rejuvenation.
The floor includes nine specially designated Mindful rooms, the Spa by JW, a modern fitness center, and an indoor swimming pool. The goal is to provide a comprehensive wellness environment where guests can unwind through spa treatments, exercise, or quiet reflection.
The 28th-Floor Pool
The hotel's 25-meter lap pool is a key highlight. Situated on the 28th floor, it offers exceptional views of the city. "It has exceptional views of Tokyo Tower, overlooking Takanawa and some of the temples and shrines in the area, as well as Mount Fuji in the distance," said Clark. He noted that the views are "truly inspirational and uplifting" for swimmers.
Culinary Offerings and Dining Experiences
The JW Marriott Hotel Tokyo hosts seven distinct bars and restaurants, providing a wide range of culinary choices. The options are designed to appeal to diverse palates, from casual bites to fine dining. One of the casual spots, Les Cres, serves artisanal croissants with a unique Japanese influence.
For a more formal experience, the hotel features Saki, an avant-garde restaurant offering a French-Japanese fusion menu. This kappo omakase establishment is a significant culinary draw for the property.
Michelin-Starred Chef Collaboration
The menu at Saki is a collaboration between two celebrated chefs, Emmanuel Stroobant and Kazumine Nishida, both of whom have earned two Michelin stars for their work. The restaurant focuses on using seasonal ingredients to create innovative dishes.
"Saki is an avant-garde kappo omakase restaurant overseen by two two-Michelin-starred chefs. It offers bold yet delicate dishes crafted with seasonal ingredients, inviting guests to discover new worlds of flavor and unexpected delights."
Clark highlighted the Ise ebi, or Japanese spiny lobster, as a particularly notable dish at Saki. He described it as "a delicacy in Japan known for its sweet, rich flavor and firm texture."
Combining Global Service with Local Hospitality
The hotel's service philosophy merges JW Marriott's global standards with the renowned Japanese concept of omotenashi. This traditional approach to hospitality emphasizes anticipating a guest's needs before they are expressed.
"Japanese hospitality, or omotenashi, is defined by a spirit of anticipating the guest's needs before they are even expressed, with warmth and sincerity," Clark said. "This aligns beautifully with JW Marriott's philosophy of mindfulness and heartfelt care." He added that the goal is to build genuine connections and create lasting memories for guests.
Unique Location Views
The hotel's location in Takanawa offers a unique vantage point not commonly found in central Tokyo. Due to fewer high-rise buildings in the immediate vicinity on the bay-view side, guests can observe a dynamic convergence of transportation.
"You can watch ships, airplanes, shinkansen, and cars all at once," Clark noted. "It's a dynamic yet calming scene, where time seems to slow down." This provides a distinctive experience for transportation enthusiasts and guests who appreciate panoramic urban landscapes.
Booking Information
Travelers interested in staying at the new property can book rooms with either cash or loyalty points. Rates at the JW Marriott Hotel Tokyo currently start at approximately $580 per night. For members of the Marriott Bonvoy loyalty program, award nights are available starting from 90,800 points per night, though this can vary based on demand and seasonality.
