In the digital age, everybody wants to show off their best photos, and there’s nothing quite like the feeling of snapping something unique that will make you the envy of your friends. Tokyo is a special city, with discoveries to be made around every corner, but the best kept secrets are always locally owned.
The Capitol Hotel Tokyu, a five-star hotel in Tokyo and Tokyu Hotel Group’s flagship hotel has put together a list of locations recommended by locals to get you that perfect picture in Tokyo! From bites that are too good not to share, to sights that will make you boast, make sure to add these items to your Tokyo itinerary.
“The Second Tower” seen from Tokyo Tower’s Observatory
Shibakoen, Tokyo
Standing at 333 metres high, and the second tallest structure in Japan, Tokyo Tower is a strikingly beautiful red radio tower that was built before the 1964 Tokyo Olympics as a symbol of Japan’s rebirth. Visitors to Tokyo can see it as they walk down the streets, but can also ascend to the observation deck to get unforgettable views of the Tokyo skyline from up high. During the daytime, you’ll get clear, bird’s eye views of the whole of the metropolis, but at night, you’ll get to see the city twinkle like a sea of stars. It’s at night when you’ll get the chance to snap a picture of the secret “second Tokyo Tower” from within the observatory, where streets connect and glow orange like a reflection of the first.
Pâtisserie Asako Iwayanagi
Setagaya, Tokyo
After studying pastry independently and gaining experience by working in patisseries for many years, Asako Iwayanagi started her own brand under her name in 2015, “Pâtisserie Asako Iwayanagi”, with the special concept “the beginning of the inspiration is you”. Every cake that is created was inspired by a person that Ms. Iwayanagi met over the years, which keeps her excited over new encounters and the prospect of creating a new unique cake she’s never seen before. A perfect Instagrammable opportunity lies in the signature fruit parfait, which is created right in front of customers so that you can marvel at the process before diving in.
Todoroki Valley
Setagaya, Tokyo
Only a 20 minute train ride from central Tokyo, and the bustling city fades to a serene, tree filled valley with a bubbling brook in a valley stretched across the expanse of approximately one kilometre; the only valley in Tokyo’s 23 wards. Although summers in Tokyo are unbearably hot, Todoroki Valley remains pleasantly cool under the lush foliage from trees such as the Japanese zelkova and bamboo-leaf oak, filled with the refreshing sounds of the river and the wild songbirds. This picturesque valley in Tokyo is also home to the Todoroki Fudoson Temple, which is famous for its cherry blossoms and beautiful Japanese garden, where you can get lost in the peace and serenity and forget all about the city noises.
STARBUCKS RESERVE ® ROASTERY TOKYO
Meguro, Tokyo
Famous for the rows of beautiful cherry blossom trees that overhang the Meguro River, this gorgeously scenic location is the perfect place for Japan’s first Starbucks Reserve ® Roastery, and the fifth in the world. Tucked a block away from Tokyo’s main bustling streets, the lightwood exterior of the four storey building stands out in the quiet street, with a dynamic 3D layered design using distinctive Japanese techniques. The gorgeous exterior of the roastery was designed by Kengo Kuma, who also designed The Capitol Hotel Tokyu’s lobby and exterior. The striking difference from common concrete modern architecture can be seen through the use of Yamato-bari cladding, which is often used in traditional five storey pagodas, as well as in the multiple layers of wood that create shadows and warmth throughout the building. Few other Starbucks around the world give as photogenic a background for your coffee as this one here in Japan!
Japan, a country on so many people’s bucket lists, is teeming with amazing experiences and hidden gems away from the crowded streets and bucket list locations that everybody visits, with plenty of treasures waiting to be discovered. The Capitol Hotel Tokyu, the leading luxury hotel in Tokyo, is here to inspire and share the best things to do, the best places to go, and the best things to eat with authentic local insights. Make the most out of your trip to Tokyo, and experience a secret and special side that few know about with Tokyo Insider and The Capitol Hotel Tokyu.
Stay with The Capitol Hotel Tokyu in Your Future Trip
The Capitol Hotel Tokyu continues to play a leading role in the growth of Japan’s hotel industry, being awarded as a five-star hotel in Tokyo for 2021 by Forbes Travel Guide. With its long history, it remains a beloved hotel for many VIPs from all over the world, including international musical greats, film and pop stars. The refined Japanese architectural style designed by Kengo Kuma, the trend architect in the world, creates an atmosphere perfect for relaxation, whether travelling to Tokyo for business or leisure. The Capitol Hotel Tokyu is a member of Tokyu Hotels Group, one of the biggest hotel chains in Japan, and Preferred Hotels & Resorts, the world’s largest independent hotel brand, representing 739 distinctive hotels, resorts, residences and unique hotel groups across 85 countries.
