The hundreds of varieties of the Prunus tree spread across Japan are quite unremarkable for most of the year. However, in Spring, during sakura season – known commonly outside of Japan as the cherry blossom season, the trees erupt in colorful waves of blossoms, in various shades of red, pink and white, blanketing parks and temples across the country in billions of tiny flowers. In Japanese culture the blossoms are highly symbolic, representing the fragility of life, the power of beauty, and the strength of a unified culture.
As the season approaches, the Japanese Meteorological Agency starts providing updates on the sakura zensen, roughly translated as the “cherry blossom front”, as it moves from the southern island of Kyushu in late March to the northern island of Hokkaido in mid-May. The blossoming begins in Okinawa in January and typically reaches Kyoto and Tokyo at the end of March or the beginning of April. It proceeds into areas at the higher altitudes and northward, arriving in Hokkaidō a few weeks later. Japanese pay close attention to these forecasts and turn out in large numbers at parks, shrines, and temples with family and friends to hold flower-viewing parties. Hanami festivals celebrate the beauty of the cherry blossom and for many are a chance to relax and enjoy the beautiful view. Once the season has finished, the flowers wither and die, and the countdown begins for a new season.
To help celebrate the beauty of the sakura season, Agoda.com is providing deals on ten of Tokyo’s most stylish hotels, colorful examples of a colorful season and perfect for viewing this once-yearly event. Check them out below, and get ready for a burst of color!
The Tokyo Station Hotel, 4.5*
Celebrating a complete renovation and grand reopening in October 2012, the Tokyo Station Hotel has been named an official Cultural Property by Japan’s Agency for Cultural Affairs due to its long history and unique red brick design. Guests can enjoy breakfast bathed in natural light in the atrium, which boasts a 9-meter ceiling, and direct access to the train station for convenient travel throughout Japan.
The Gate Hotel Kaminarimon by Hulic, 4*
Fusing ancient tradition with contemporary Japanese culture, the Gate Hotel Kaminarimon is a dark and stylish place in a great location. From the rooftop terrace with spectacular views toward the Tokyo Sky Tree to its proximity to historical temples and colorful cultural festivals, it’s a great location from which to explore the city.
Claska, 4*
An innovative and creative space just minutes way from bus and train stations, the Claska is a hotel focused not only on design but creativity. Its 8th Gallery offers a space for artists to showcase their work while Studio Claska often hosts parties, events and photo shoots. Some of its funky rooms feature curved wooden walls while others showcase carefully selected antiques from around Asia, and all are designed with elegance and convenience in mind.
Agora Place Asakusa, 3*
Newly opened in September 2012, this modern and stylish hotel offers a unique experience for guests, who may choose to stay in a traditional room with familiar amenities or decide on a more bespoke experience by telling the front desk which amenities they want to use upon check-in. Free wi-fi and a great location complete the package.
Shibuya Granbell Hotel, 3.5*
The Shibuya Granbell is an affordable boutique hotel – not the easiest thing to find in Tokyo – with 114 rooms and easy access to Tokyo’s legendary fashion and nightlife district of Shibuya. All rooms are designed with an artistic pop sensibility complimented by a sophisticated design and comfortable furniture to create a warm, relaxing interior.
The Strings by Intercontinental Tokyo
Right next to Shinagawa subway station and only a short drive from the airport, The Strings is designed with an eye toward sophistication and influenced in equal amounts by eastern and western cultures. The hotel is also known for its personal service and high level of local knowledge, making this the perfect business hotel with a bit of sight-seeing on the side.
Roppongi Hotel S, 4*
Opened in 2012, the Roppongi Hotel S is located, not surprisingly, in the heart of the buzzing Roppongi district, and is aimed at adults who want a nice, clean, comfortable space in the middle of the city that offers services similar to those one would have at home.
Hotel Graphy Nezu, 3*
Opened only a few months ago, this property is only steps from a subway station and a bullet train station, for maximum convenience no matter where one is heading. Billed as Tokyo’s first ‘social apartment’ hotel, it’s designed around communal areas such as an exercise room, kitchen, lounge and rooftop terrace, where guests can interact to share stories and travel advice.
Hundred Stay Tokyo Shinjuku
Offering short and long term stays for guests of all types, the Hundred Stay Tokyo Shinjuku is a serviced apartment that takes care of all of a traveler’s needs. With bright and spacious rooms and a great view of the city, a stay here is sure to provide any visitor with all they need on a vacation in Tokyo.
Rihga Royal Hotel Tokyo, 3.5*
This large, elegant building in the heart of Tokyo offers large rooms and beautiful facilities to make any stay a perfect one. Next to the famous Okuma Garden and very close to subway and bullet train stations, it’s a perfect spot to stay while visiting the Japanese capital.
As the season approaches, the Japanese Meteorological Agency starts providing updates on the sakura zensen, roughly translated as the “cherry blossom front”, as it moves from the southern island of Kyushu in late March to the northern island of Hokkaido in mid-May. The blossoming begins in Okinawa in January and typically reaches Kyoto and Tokyo at the end of March or the beginning of April. It proceeds into areas at the higher altitudes and northward, arriving in Hokkaidō a few weeks later. Japanese pay close attention to these forecasts and turn out in large numbers at parks, shrines, and temples with family and friends to hold flower-viewing parties. Hanami festivals celebrate the beauty of the cherry blossom and for many are a chance to relax and enjoy the beautiful view. Once the season has finished, the flowers wither and die, and the countdown begins for a new season.
To help celebrate the beauty of the sakura season, Agoda.com is providing deals on ten of Tokyo’s most stylish hotels, colorful examples of a colorful season and perfect for viewing this once-yearly event. Check them out below, and get ready for a burst of color!
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| "Hanami" is the centuries-old practice of picnicking under a blooming sakura or ume tree. |
The Tokyo Station Hotel, 4.5*
Celebrating a complete renovation and grand reopening in October 2012, the Tokyo Station Hotel has been named an official Cultural Property by Japan’s Agency for Cultural Affairs due to its long history and unique red brick design. Guests can enjoy breakfast bathed in natural light in the atrium, which boasts a 9-meter ceiling, and direct access to the train station for convenient travel throughout Japan.
The Gate Hotel Kaminarimon by Hulic, 4*
Fusing ancient tradition with contemporary Japanese culture, the Gate Hotel Kaminarimon is a dark and stylish place in a great location. From the rooftop terrace with spectacular views toward the Tokyo Sky Tree to its proximity to historical temples and colorful cultural festivals, it’s a great location from which to explore the city.
Claska, 4*
An innovative and creative space just minutes way from bus and train stations, the Claska is a hotel focused not only on design but creativity. Its 8th Gallery offers a space for artists to showcase their work while Studio Claska often hosts parties, events and photo shoots. Some of its funky rooms feature curved wooden walls while others showcase carefully selected antiques from around Asia, and all are designed with elegance and convenience in mind.
Agora Place Asakusa, 3*
Newly opened in September 2012, this modern and stylish hotel offers a unique experience for guests, who may choose to stay in a traditional room with familiar amenities or decide on a more bespoke experience by telling the front desk which amenities they want to use upon check-in. Free wi-fi and a great location complete the package.
Shibuya Granbell Hotel, 3.5*
The Shibuya Granbell is an affordable boutique hotel – not the easiest thing to find in Tokyo – with 114 rooms and easy access to Tokyo’s legendary fashion and nightlife district of Shibuya. All rooms are designed with an artistic pop sensibility complimented by a sophisticated design and comfortable furniture to create a warm, relaxing interior.
The Strings by Intercontinental Tokyo
Right next to Shinagawa subway station and only a short drive from the airport, The Strings is designed with an eye toward sophistication and influenced in equal amounts by eastern and western cultures. The hotel is also known for its personal service and high level of local knowledge, making this the perfect business hotel with a bit of sight-seeing on the side.
Roppongi Hotel S, 4*
Opened in 2012, the Roppongi Hotel S is located, not surprisingly, in the heart of the buzzing Roppongi district, and is aimed at adults who want a nice, clean, comfortable space in the middle of the city that offers services similar to those one would have at home.
Hotel Graphy Nezu, 3*
Opened only a few months ago, this property is only steps from a subway station and a bullet train station, for maximum convenience no matter where one is heading. Billed as Tokyo’s first ‘social apartment’ hotel, it’s designed around communal areas such as an exercise room, kitchen, lounge and rooftop terrace, where guests can interact to share stories and travel advice.
Hundred Stay Tokyo Shinjuku
Offering short and long term stays for guests of all types, the Hundred Stay Tokyo Shinjuku is a serviced apartment that takes care of all of a traveler’s needs. With bright and spacious rooms and a great view of the city, a stay here is sure to provide any visitor with all they need on a vacation in Tokyo.
Rihga Royal Hotel Tokyo, 3.5*
This large, elegant building in the heart of Tokyo offers large rooms and beautiful facilities to make any stay a perfect one. Next to the famous Okuma Garden and very close to subway and bullet train stations, it’s a perfect spot to stay while visiting the Japanese capital.
Season is also effect on our travel trip. Here I get best option of tokyo hotel deals for colourful and amazing sakura season. You have done amazing work.
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