Cover Tokyo Edition Ginza opened in March 2024 (Photo: Edition Hotels)
Tokyo Edition Ginza opened in March 2024 (Photo: Edition Hotels)
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Tokyo Edition Ginza, which opened earlier this year, has quickly become the go-to hotel for the jet-setting creative crowd
Always encouraging a healthy dose of hedonism, it’s no wonder Edition Hotels around the world draw cashed-up Hollywood misfits like moths to a flame. After all, its founder Ian Schrager was the co-owner of the legendary New York nightclub, Studio 54.
When Tokyo Edition Ginza opened in March this year, it quickly became the go-to place to stay and be seen for the jet-setting creative crowd.
Case in point, the likes of DJ Peggy Gou, burlesque star Dita von Teese, designer Tomo Koizumi, and Verdy, the artistic director for K-pop sensation Blackpink, attended the hotel’s opening party.
See also: Inside Tokyo’s most stylish suite: Spacious lounge area, lush views and two terraces
First Impressions
Designed by prolific Japanese designer Kengo Kuma, the hotel’s overall aesthetic is defined by warm walnut wood, ivory tones and subtle Japanese influences—I particularly loved the obi fabric draped over the lobby chairs.
There are two doormen whose sole purpose is to make your day a little better—they remember guests by name, and have mastered the art of lightning-quick banter that never feels intrusive. It's very New York. Edition Hotels, if you’re reading this, give these men a raise.
In the lobby, an eye-catching staircase—crafted from white metal—leads to The Punch Room, but more on that later. It's refreshing that the reception desk doesn't sit front and centre. Instead, it's tucked away and sits adjacent to a cosy bar that serves coffee and cocktails to weary new arrivals.
The Rooms
The design of the rooms at Tokyo Edition Ginza is consistent with the rest of the hotel: walnut wood, soft light textiles and tastefully minimalist.
It's most premium offering is The Penthouse, a dreamy Tokyo apartment with wraparound floor-to-ceiling windows, separate dining and living areas and a kitchen equipped for entertaining. If that feels too extra, the Premier Suite is a condensed version that offers the same level of luxury.
Tatler Tip: Request a room on a higher floor. Since the hotel is tucked in a maze of narrow streets, rooms on the lower floors don’t have much of a view.
Food & Drink
The Punch Room is modelled after 19th-century private clubs in London. Think sunken couches, seductive lighting, crushed velvet … the works. A signature in Edition hotels around the world, it’s the first bar in Japan to offer authentic punch bowls.
But if cocktails served by the ladle aren’t your thing, head to Tokyo Edition Ginza's rooftop bar—The Roof—which specialises in natural wines (they also make a very decent espresso martini). The Roof is a lovely green space with views that graze over the rooftops of Ginza. Take your pick of long communal tables or intimate nooks shrouded by shrubs.
Tokyo Edition Ginza's restaurant, Sophie, is a pretty modern brasserie. Its menu is a fun take on French flavours and Japanese ingredients, like a whole roasted chicken with yuzu kosho or a wagyu strip with a sauce made from Hokkaido brandy.
The Location
Located just off Chuo Street at the heart of Ginza’s main shopping district, the hotel is steps away from luxury boutiques and multi-brand shopping destinations like Dover Street Market, as well as Michelin-starred restaurants.
It’s also a pleasant 20 minute walk from Tsukiji Outer Market. Skip the tourist bits and explore the lesser-known outlets opened by passionate young chefs. Masa, for example, makes a fantastic fried cod burger that’s like a gourmet take on a filet o' fish.
Next to that is Peppers Cafe, where the owners do great artisanal pizzas and Thai food using unique peppers they’ve sourced from around the world.
Coco Marett is a writer and editor who grew up between Hong Kong and Melbourne. She currently heads the travel section for Tatler Asia, and manages the Tatler Travel account on Instagram. She is known for her features on unique, under-the-radar properties and destinations. She's also known for her in-depth interviews that paint a refreshingly candid portrait of influential figures across various industries —from artists to political figures, CEOs to celebrity chefs. Follow her on Instagram @cocomarett
