Tokyo is unlike anywhere else on earth. It just feels more alive, more vibrant, more colourful. It’s life in super high definition. And while 48 hours might not be enough to experience every part of this unique city, it's about 47 hours less than it will take for you to completely fall under its spell.

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The Right Address

Tokyo has a million different ways you could experience the city. But for a 48-hour considered stay, we would go one of two ways.

On the one hand, a property that places you at the very heart of it all: connected, energised, almost like you’re plugging directly into the city itself. On the other hand, a retreat above the skyline, where you can observe the city and its vibrancy. Still a part of the city, but slightly removed.

The Heart of the City

Facing the Imperial Palace Gardens in Yurakucho, with Ginza a short walk in one direction and Marunouchi in the other, The Peninsula Tokyo puts you at the heart of the city.

The property might be in the centre of everything, but it is still an oasis of hinoki wood, granite stone and Japanese silk. The staff and service are impeccable, all the while allowing you a restful respite from the city itself.

"This is the last word in catering to your guests' every whim and desire. Nothing is too much trouble, while the spa offers a serene and beautiful escape from the madness of Tokyo." - Luxury Lifestyle Magazine

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Amongst the clouds

For those who want the silence before the city rather than the city itself, Aman Tokyo sits thirty-three floors above Otemachi and feels, from the moment the lift opens, like you’re entering another world entirely.

The property is among the finest interior spaces in Japan and has taken inspiration from a traditional Japanese house and blended it with Aman's unique interpretation of luxury.

"After one night here, you'll understand why legions of luxury seekers have dubbed themselves 'Aman junkies'." - Condé Nast Traveler

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A little more?

For those drawn to the Aman philosophy but wanting something a little more, Janu Tokyo at Azabudai Hills offers a different register: a more energetic take on the city experience, but one that is still rooted in luxury and tradition.

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The First Night

Your first night should always be an experience, and with Tokyo's dining scene you’re in for something truly incredible. For a first stop, we would begin at Azabu Kadowaki.

It’s not your usual spot and easy to miss in a quiet alley in Azabu-Juban. There’s not much in the way of signage, and one of the few hints that you're somewhere special is a small Michelin plate outside.

The restaurant seats six at the counter, and dining is a refined style of kaiseki. But this isn’t just dining; it’s a three-star dining masterclass, and the truffle claypot rice is just one of the many memories you will leave with.

After dinner, we’d head to Bar Benfiddich. Another hidden secret tucked away on the ninth floor of a building in Nishishinjuku, there’s no menu and a seventeen-seat walnut counter stocked with spirits distilled by the bar and served in different glasses every time.

Just like Azabu Kadowaki, booking is essential, so make sure you get yours in well in advance.

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The Shape of the Day

While Tokyo might feel like the place that never sleeps, after your fight night’s rest, the mornings might surprise you. The early hours are unnaturally quiet, and a long, unhurried breakfast at The Peninsula or Aman's morning service fits the mood.

With only one day to take in the sights and sounds of such a remarkable city, there are a few ways we would go about it.

The first would be to enjoy your morning in Yanaka, one of the few neighbourhoods to survive both the 1923 earthquake and the war intact. It’s a slice of Japanese city life that lets you see both the past and the present in unison, with narrow streets, wooden shopfronts and unique sellers. Don’t forget to grab a midmorning snack of soba noodles at one of the many counters along the way.

Alternatively, depending on whether you are visiting for cherryblossom season or not, you could head to Daikanyama and on to Omotesando. Architecture awaits you, with the Prada Tokyo building and the Nezu Museum, which opens onto a garden that is a must-see if you are visiting during Sakura.

From there, we’d head to Ni-chome, Tokyo’s longstanding queer neighbourhood, before taking in a lunch date you simply do not want to miss.

Regardless of which route you chose for your money, lunch has to be at Florilège at Azabudai Hills. Its two-Michelin-star French meets Japanese cuisine will probably be the most memorable meal you eat on your trip.

After lunch, no one would blame you for heading back to the hotel to enjoy some spa time. In fact, it would be our recommendation.

Your second evening is a complete contrast to your first. Head to Gonpachi Nishiazabu, a large, multi-level theatrical building of bamboo and dark timber with an open kitchen that creates an atmosphere that is unlike anything you’ve experienced before. The wagyu is a must here, as are the homemade buckwheat soba noodles.

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Next Stop: Hakone

Some journeys are short, but if you’re looking to stay a bit longer, we would recommend jumping aboard the Romancecar to Hakone. This sleek, limited express with panoramic windows will take you on an hour and twenty-minute cinematic tour of changing landscapes from mountains and forests to volcanic vents and, on a clear day, a caldera that holds the reflection of Mount Fuji.

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Tokyo Awaits

One thing we can guarantee: you will leave Tokyo wanting more, especially if you’ve had a glimpse of the cherry blossom season. If two days in Tokyo sounds like the perfect long weekend away, simply click here and create your account. From there, simply search by city, landmark or even airport to book a hotel or resort to suit your needs.

For anything else, we’re always here to help, so please don’t hesitate to reach out.

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^{Images credited to:}

^{Aman Tokyo
The Peninsula Tokyo
Janu Tokyo
Bar Benfiddich
Azabu Kadowaki
Florilège
Gonpachi Nishiazabu}