Shangri-La Tokyo Review: A Five-Star Hotel Above Tokyo Station
Perched above Tokyo Station in the Marunouchi district, Shangri-La Tokyo offers one of the most luxurious hotel stays in Japan. If you’re looking for a five-star luxury hotel in Tokyo with direct access to Tokyo Station, the Shangri-La Tokyo offers world-class comfort and views — making it an ideal choice for business travellers, tourists, and anyone embarking on a cruise from Japan. Here’s what we experienced during our four-night stay, before and after our Japan cruise.
Surprisingly Spacious Luxury Rooms with Incredible Views
Our room was available on arrival — a welcome surprise after a long-haul flight and late-night immigration. Generously sized by Tokyo standards, the space included a vast bed, work desk, and a cosy seating area overlooking the skyline and Tokyo Station below.
Floor-to-ceiling windows gave us sunsets, nightscapes, and a perfect view of the Shinkansen as it came and went. The room was whisper-quiet despite being in the heart of the city.
A motionlapse capture of Tokyo Station as night falls on Tokyo. Captured by Wine, Travel and Song from a hotel room at Shangri-La Tokyo
Elegant Bathrooms and Thoughtful Touches
The bathroom matched the room in both space and style. Twin sinks, a separate bath, and a monsoon shower brought spa-level comfort. Classic Japanese features like the automatic toilet were a thoughtful (and entertaining) detail. Little extras — toothbrushes, shaving kits, even a comb — added to the all-inclusive feel.
High-Speed Connectivity for Modern Travellers
Unlike many hotels that offer throttled Wi-Fi, the Shangri-La delivered a strong, fast connection (100mbps). After days of photographing temples, sushi, and cruise ports, I relied on the hotel’s connection to upload thousands of pictures to Google Photos — quickly and without issue before heading home.
A Perfect Location for Exploring Tokyo
With direct access to Tokyo Station, this hotel makes it easy to explore the city — or the country. Ginza’s boutiques and the Imperial Palace are within walking distance. For wider adventures, the Tokyo subway gave us easy access to the Skytree, Senso-ji, and more.
If you need help getting on, or off the bullet train, a staff member will gladly accompany you down to the platform and get you on the train, waiting right outside your door on return. With the cavernous Tokyo Station confusing to first time visitors, and Shinkansen that just won’t wait this was a brilliant service.
Despite its setting in a business district, the surrounding area offered charming cafés and local restaurants — ideal for an afternoon coffee or low-key evening out.
Dining at Nadaman and the Horizon Lounge
Our dinner at Nadaman was a standout experience. The tasting menu was an elegant showcase of Japanese cuisine — more memorable than our visit to Nobu the following night. Even the ‘basic’ sake offered insight into local food culture and rituals.
The hotel also houses the Horizon Club Lounge, with a sleek cocktail list and skyline views. While we ventured out for breakfast, the hotel’s offerings looked tempting enough to stay in next time.
Impeccable Service That Leaves a Mark
After returning from our Japan cruise, the familiar scent of the Shangri-La lobby and the warm welcome of the staff felt like coming home. What began as a practical choice became one of the highlights of our Japan journey.
A special mention to General Manager Matthias Sutter and his team, who made us feel like honoured guests from start to finish.
Why Shangri-La Tokyo Is One of the Best Luxury Hotels in Tokyo
As one of the most luxurious hotels in Tokyo, the Shangri-La offers everything you’d expect from a true five-star property — elegant rooms, thoughtful service, and seamless access to the best of the city. For travellers arriving by Shinkansen or setting off on a cruise, it’s one of the most convenient and elegant bases in the capital.
Shangri-La Tokyo Marunouchi Trust Tower Main, 1‑8‑3 Marunouchi, Chiyoda‑ku, Tokyo 100‑8283, Japan