Tuesday, Dec. 20, 2011

Ritz-Carlton

The Ritz-Carlton's first hotel in Tokyo commandeers the top nine floors of the city's tallest structure, Tokyo Midtown Galleria, with close proximity to the bustling Roppongi District, giving it instant cachet. The 248 rooms extend up to the 53rd floor, giving the hotel bragging rights for having the highest rooms in the city. Not surprisingly, the views are truly awe-inspiring. And with free high-speed Wi-Fi and in-bath flat-screen televisions, the rooms are decidedly more modern than other Ritz-Carltons — fitting for this cutting-edge city. Don't miss a traditional Japanese breakfast, with panoramic views of Mount Fuji, at Hinokizaka. The restaurant also houses a reconstructed 200-year-old teahouse (reserved for private dining). The Sunday brunch at French-influenced Forty-Five includes free-flowing Dom Pérignon — perhaps the best way to start any day.

Insider Tip:Ask for south/east-facing Tower Deluxe or Club Tower Deluxe rooms for the best city views, including the Eiffel-like Tokyo Tower.

Room to Book: Room No. 5305, the Club Millenia Suite, measures more than 861 square feet, with views of Tokyo Tower — even from its glass-walled bathroom. The hotel is also home to the largest suite in Tokyo — The Ritz-Carlton Suite, with more than 3,300 square feet — but space does not come cheap, so be prepare to pay, and big, for these high-flying accommodations.