Hotels in Tokyo

Japan is an often eccentric country when seen through Western eyes; and this is mostly due to the fact that it's their strangest trends that travel the best. For example, most Brits have heard about the increasing pressure on living space in Japan, and how this translates into smaller and smaller units of accommodation. In the UK, this manifests itself as the Yotel, a chain of hotels brought to us by the owner of Yo! Sushi, where the sleeping space is less than you get on some luxury airlines. It's true that the capsule hotel concept is big news in Tokyo, but it's also possible to get more spacious accommodation for your stay.

There's certainly room to manoeuvre at Tokyo 's many luxury hotels. The Four Seasons Hotel is found in a seventeen-acre garden, and rooms are large and luxurious. Prices start at around £250.00 per room per night, and facilities include a pool, fine dining, spa facilities and a mini-gym. Many other international hotel chains have branches in Tokyo, including InterContinental and Hyatt. Compare as many prices as you can before you book, as the big hotels are very competitive and often run great-value introductory offers in the hope of luring guests away from each other.

In the four-star and three-star price range, there's also plenty to choose from, including famous names such as Marriott. The Renaissance Hotel in the popular Ginza district costs just over £100.00 per room per night. For this you get a choice of restaurants and the use of the nearby Fitness Trail to keep trim during your stay. Le Meridien Tokyo is also found in Ginza, near many shops and attractions, and usually costs slightly more than the Renaissance Hotel. Le Meridien scores points for its beautiful gardens and choice of six restaurants.

However, if you're simply looking for a budget place to crash out, why not give one of the capsule hotels a go? At less than £15.00 per night, they represent good value for money.