Keio Plaza Hotel *****

Rating: 8.9

It has been many years ago since I visited the Keio Plaza on one of my business trips. The hotel is a prominent and luxurious hotel located in the vibrant Shinjuku district. I've been there twice. Initially in 1991 and some 15 years later again. Known for its blend of modern amenities and traditional Japanese hospitality.

Rooms

The Keio Plaza is a large hotel with almost 1.500 rooms. They offer accommodations ranging from standard rooms to luxurious suites. I've stayed in a Superior room and was upgraded to a suite on my last trip (must have been because of the black card).

The rooms are equipped with state-of-the-art technology ensuring a comfortable stay. The rooms offer wide view of the Tokyo cityscape.

Restaurants

The hotel has an impressive array of dining options, with over 20 restaurants and bars, ranging from traditional Japanese cuisine to international dishes. Dining experiences include a Japanese kaiseki restaurant, a teppanyaki grill, and a sky lounge offering breathtaking views of the city. I had only one time dinner in the hotel itself (teppanyaki, one of my favorite food experiences).

Facilities and Services

The Keio Plaza is provides exceptional service, embodying the Japanese tradition of omotenashi, or heartfelt hospitality. There is a range of facilities, including an outdoor pool, a fitness center, shopping floor and much more.

One of the unique experiences I've seen in a hotel is the tea ceremony demonstrations, ikebana flower arrangement classes, and kimono dress-up experiences.

Location

Located in Shinjuku, the hotel is ideally situated for both business and leisure travelers. Shinjuku is a major commercial and entertainment hub, home to numerous shops, restaurants, and nightlife spots. The headquarters of Juki, the company I visited first time there, was close by. The Meiji Shrine and Harajuku districts are nearby as well.

It would be easy to give a 9 plus rating to the Keio Plaza given what they have to offer. In the end however it is a very, very large (mainly business related) hotel. Therefore, the 8.9 is at its place.

SHINJUKU, TOKYO, JAPAN