Tokyo Luxury Now: Why There’s Never Been a Better Time to Indulge. Travel

February 27th, 2025
The Meguro Gajoen hotel overlooking the Meguro River. Photo: Tom Hind

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Take advantage of the yen’s record low to explore tradition and opulence in the Japanese capital

Tokyo is a city of contrasts, where ultra-modern skyscrapers stand beside centuries-old temples and Michelin-starred restaurants thrive alongside hidden ramen joints. For many travellers, Japan’s luxury experiences have often seemed out of reach, but with yen recently hitting a record low, now is the perfect time to indulge in a high-end Tokyo experience.

Whether you’re an active traveller looking to add some comfort at the start or end of a snowsports trip, or a couple seeking a special getaway, this guide showcases some of the best luxury accommodations, dining, and experiences the city has to offer.

Tranquility in Mount Takao. Photo: Tom Hind

Unforgettable stays: Two of Tokyo’s Finest hotels

For those looking for a truly unique accommodation experience, Meguro Gajoen offers something extraordinary. Originally a wedding venue, this boutique luxury hotel immerses you in Japanese elegance. Every room is a spacious suite, designed in either Western or ryokan-style and featuring private steam saunas and jet pool baths – perfect for unwinding after a week on the slopes or a day of exploring the city.

Suites at the Gajoen represent the epitome of elegance and comfort, with picturesque views over the Meguro River and towards Mount Fuji. Photo: Tom Hind

Dining within the Gajoen is an event in itself. The hotel offers several high-quality in-house dining options, but the signature choice is Tofutei, a traditional restaurant serving speciality course meals reflecting the seasons. Here, guests can enjoy an intimate private dining experience that feels like stepping back in time. Gajoen’s breakfast buffet includes a wide variety of Western and Japanese dishes, using only the freshest, high-quality ingredients, while the hotel’s unique atmosphere and exceptional service make it a standout choice for those seeking something very special.

Tofutei serves Japanese dishes in themed private rooms for 2-14 people composed by some of Japan’s top designers and creatives. Photo: Tom Hind

The Okura Tokyo: Timeless elegance meets modern comfort

A stay at The Okura is a seamless blend of Japanese tradition and contemporary luxury. Spacious rooms feature large comfortable beds, intuitive electronic controls and a fluid layout that enhances your relaxation. The attention to detail is apparent in the design and provided amenities, right down to fresh fruit and pillowtop origami when you first enter your room.

Rooms are found on the upper levels of both buildings that make up The Okura: the Heritage Wing and the Prestige Tower. Photo: Tom Hind

The Okura’s spa and gym facilities on the 27th floor provide breath taking city views, setting Okura apart from other luxury hotels. Dining at Sazanka, the hotel’s top-floor teppanyaki restaurant, is a theatrical experience where chefs skilfully prepare seasonal ingredients with precision. Breakfast options cater to all tastes, with choice between an extensive Western buffet and a generous Japanese breakfast selection.

Sazanka, on the 41st floor, sets impressive cooking showmanship against a stunning backdrop. Photo: Tom Hind

Service at The Okura is exemplary. Despite its size, the hotel maintains a personalised feel, ensuring that guests’ needs are met with efficiency and warmth. Its central location provides easy access to many of Tokyo’s key attractions, making it a perfect base for luxury travellers.

Gourmet gems: Exploring some of Tokyo’s best beyond the hotel

Tokyo is a paradise for food lovers, offering an endless array of world-class dining experiences beyond your hotel. Whether you seek genuine Japanese flavours, innovative fusion cuisine, or immersive dining concepts, you can find it all in the city’s diverse and refined culinary scene.

Ukai Toriyama: A tranquil dining escaper near Mount Takao

Nestled in the forested foothills of Mount Takao (see later in this article), Ukai Toriyama is an unmissable traditional dining experience. Guests dine in private, thatched-roof pavilions surrounded by a beautifully landscaped Japanese garden.

Specialising in irori-style (charcoal-grilled) cuisine, the restaurant highlights the natural flavours of premium seasonal ingredients. The peaceful surroundings create a deep sense of relaxation, making this an ideal stop after a hike on Mount Takao. A free shuttle service from Takao Station ensures easy access for visitors combining their meal with a hike

The gardens surrounding individual dining pavilions at Ukai Toriyama transition through the seasons and are illuminated in the evenings. Photo: Tom Hind

Mikiuni Marunouchi: Fresh flavours in a refined setting

Despite being located in the heart of Tokyo’s financial district, Mikuni Marunouchi emphasises farm-to-table dining with fresh ingredients in a refined environment. Dishes are expertly crafted and presented, with service both attentive and non-intrusive. The restaurant’s elevated floor location provides a stylish yet relaxed setting, creating a welcome contrast to the bustling city streets visible through its large windows.

Suigian: Fine dining meets traditional theatre

Suigian offers a completely unique dining experience, combining high-end Japanese cuisine with beautiful Noh and Kyogen theatrical performances. The sleek, lounge-like space allows guests to enjoy a curated menu of regional specialities while watching live stage performances from up close, while the theatre’s central location and English-speaking staff make this an accessible and memorable experience for international visitors.

Actors and musicians train for years in the arts of traditional performance; English translations and explanations of the shows are available to international visitors. Photo: Tom Hind

A highlight of the menu is the award-winning silken tofu, a dish that showcases Japan’s ability to transform simple ingredients into something truly exquisite. After the performance, guests can take the opportunity to meet the performers, enjoy a traditional tea ceremony or relax at the bar, which serves an extensive selection of drinks from Japan and beyond.

Food and theatre are a perfect combination, with prices starting from AUD 200 per person for an evening of entertainment and seven courses. Photo: Tom Hind

Cultural and natural escapes in Tokyo and beyond

Mount Takao: Tokyo’s most rewarding day hike

For active travellers, Mount Takao (Takao-san) offers a perfect balance of nature, culture, and accessibility. Just an hour from Shinjuku, this popular hiking destination provides well-maintained trails through lush forests, passing historic temples and offering panoramic views—including distant glimpses of Mount Fuji on clear days.

A hike at Mount Takao produces rewarding views across the Tokyo metropolis, as well as glimpses of Mount Fuji on a clear day. Photo: Tom Hind

While it can get busy at peak times, facilities are well-developed, and there are plenty of local treats to enjoy along the way, from handmade rice crackers to fresh dango. For those seeking a less strenuous journey, a cable car and chairlift are available to help visitors on their way to the summit.

Food and drinks are available on the hike, including dumplings cooked over charcoal called dango. Photo: Tom Hind

Taku Nakano Ceramic Arts: The art of Kintsugi

For a hands-on experience that connects with Japan’s deep artistic heritage, a visit to Taku Nakano Ceramic Arts is a must. The studio offers workshops in Kintsugi, the traditional Japanese art of repairing broken ceramics with gold lacquer. Nakano’s sessions not only teach a unique craft but also embody the Japanese philosophy of finding beauty in imperfection called Wabi-Sabi.

Nakano guides his guests through his own life experiences to help them channel their own version of Wabi-Sabi into the ceramic that they create. Photo: Tom Hind

Located near the flagship designer stores of Omotesando, Nakano’s studio provides a peaceful retreat from the city’s energy. Whether you’re an experienced artist or a complete beginner, this calming and creative activity is a meaningful way to engage with Japanese culture – and you’ll leave with a one-of-a-kind souvenir to take home.

Each guest makes their own piece to take home, while Nakano’s workshop also acts as his gallery selling a wide array of beautiful ceramics. Photo: Tom Hind

For many travellers, Tokyo’s luxury experiences have long been admired from afar, but with the current exchange rate, there’s never been a better time to indulge. Whether it’s the elegant comfort of The Okura Tokyo, the immersive beauty of Meguro Gajoen, a once-in-a-lifetime dining experience, or a cultural adventure beyond the city, this guide samples some of the very best of high-end Tokyo. Even if luxury travel isn’t usually your style, these experiences are well worth the splurge for a truly unforgettable trip.

* All prices and conversions are correct as of February 2025. Check details on the individual websites of each attraction.