The Peninsula Tokyo

Like its sister properties in the world's biggest cities, The Peninsula Tokyo is a high-end hotel that caters to business travelers and those seeking a refined escape from the hectic pace outside. And it does both of those things spectacularly well. Upon entering, the hotel gives off a warm vibe, with guests, locals, businesspeople, and tourists enjoying the popular afternoon tea in the lobby bar. Beautiful contemporary art is featured just enough to give the hotel some character, and there are numerous places to grab a drink or bite throughout the property. Rooms are spacious and silent here, and while it's a popular business hotel, The Peninsula Tokyo is a great base for tourists looking to be near Tokyo Station and The Ginza as well.

It's hard to beat The Peninsula Tokyo's location if you're in town for business. The main Tokyo business district is just to the north and east, and it's only a 10-minute walk to Tokyo Station. You'll also find the luxe shopping, restaurants, and bars of The Ginza within a 10- to 20-minute walk depending on where you're heading. The East Gardens of the Imperial Palace take about 15 to 20 minutes to reach on foot as well. While the immediate area is incredibly sleepy at night, you can get around the city easily from this part of Tokyo. Tokyo Station is home to numerous metro and subway lines, as well as short and long-distance trains, plus bullet trains to Kyoto or Osaka. Budget 45 minutes to reach Haneda Airport by train or taxi, and an hour to reach Narita Airport by express train.

Rooms at The Peninsula Tokyo are attractive and spacious — in fact, even entry-level units have walk-in closets, massive bathrooms, dramatic hallways, and a living area. The plush style — deep oranges, natural woods, and just a few pieces of Japanese art — give them a homey, but polished overall vibe.

The Peninsula Tokyo Deluxe Suite is one of this hotel's premier units, with exceptional city views, walls of windows, and plenty of living space. Of course, other incredible units are available — this is one of the world's foremost luxury hotels, after all. However, entry-level rooms won't have much in the way of views, as the hotel is almost entirely surrounded by other buildings. That fact aside, the blackout curtains, incredibly comfortable beds, and powerful soundproofing mean your nights will be peaceful (which isn't always the case in this part of Tokyo).

Features include espresso machines, entertainment centers with large flat-screen TVs, tea-making facilities, dressing areas, air-conditioning, and free Wi-Fi. Marble bathrooms are also incredibly spacious, with separate showers and soaking tubs plus high-end bath products.

The Peninsula brand of hotels takes afternoon tea service seriously, and the experience is no less special at The Peninsula Tokyo. Expect whimsical desserts and pastries presented in artful ways, all surrounded by the light buzz of the lobby. It's incredibly popular with hotel guests, locals, and other tourists, so be sure to book ahead.

In addition to the buzzing afternoon tea, the lobby restaurant also serves all other meals. However, you'd do well to book a dinner at Peter, the hotel's steak restaurant that has great views over the Imperial Palace grounds. If you're after Asian cuisine, Hei Fung Terrace serves Cantonese fare and dim sum.

The pool complex at The Peninsula Tokyo is also quite exceptional — in fact, it's one of the few luxury hotels in the city where you're allowed to use the facilities even if you have visible tattoos. There are plenty of lounge chairs and a jetted windowside mineral pool in addition to the main pool. A compact, but complete fitness center offers just enough free weights, resistance machines, and cardio equipment.

The Peninsula Tokyo's concierge service is available around the clock to assist with transport, reservations, and suggestions.

In a hectic city like Tokyo, The Peninsula Tokyo Spa is a haven. You'll find it located on its own floor, along with the fitness center and pool area. Treatment rooms are secluded and silent, and everything from massages to detoxifying treatments are available. Again, reservations are recommended as the spa draws guests from beyond the hotel itself.