Shinjuku Granbell Hotel (Tokyo, JAPAN)

If you're searching through the Internet looking for an interesting place to stay in Tokyo, then look no further than the Shinjuku Granbell, a trendy local hotel just opened at the end of 2013.

Shinjuku was traditionally a tourist haven with quite a significant number of quality (but old) hotels in the area and even more department stores and shops to match it. But in the past few years, tourists have slowly shifted their attention elsewhere following the opening of numerous luxury hotels in other districts such as Roppongi and Marunouchi. The opening of 4-star Shinjuku Granbell will not directly revitalize an area better known for its shopping than its hotels and eateries but it will sure help to breathe new air into a district desperate for new blood, idea and direction.
 
But first before you go get your credit card and start looking this hotel up from your favorite hotel booking website, there are some facts you should know about this hotel.



First and foremost, the hotel is very close to the famous red light district Kabukichō (歌舞伎町) and when I said close, I mean close. And because of that, you will find at least a dozen of love hotels right in the 'backyard' of the hotel. But this should not be a huge concern for you. Tokyo has one of the 'cleanest' red light district in the world and it should never pose a problem for the hotel guests.  

Then, there's the service level. While Shinjuku Granbell offers pretty good service with most staff speaking somewhat-fluent English, it's still a local brand so don't start expecting the same level of service as your typical Intercontinental or Marriott. It's slowly getting there but unfortunately not there yet.
 
Now if you think you can get over the last two points, here's the good part.

The hotel is strategically located away from Shinjuku's shopping area. What that means is less crowded streets and out of the tourist hustle and bustle. The closest subway station to the hotel is Higashi-shinjuku station, which is just a comfortable 5-minute walk and it will take you to Shibuya in 10 minutes.

If you happen to be celebrating a special occasion, I suggest you to go all out for one of their 4 specially designed suites (They are called villa, club, resort and penthouse suite). Perched on the 13th floor, each of these suites is designed to a special theme and truly one of a kind. 

For the best value for money, go for the villa suite (approximately US$400 per night) where contemporary design meets modern minimalism in 62m² of space on the top floor of this chic hotel.




Enjoy the skyscraping view right from the bedroom.



The outdoor shower room is a nice facility to have if you're traveling during the summer.



Each suite is equipped with a gorgeous city view.



And the view just gets better at night.



This neighborhood is so much more than just love hotels and nightclubs. As a matter of fact, if you are willing to spend time to dig deeper, you may actually be amazed with some of these findings, like I did with this batting cage (which is a 2-minute walk from the hotel lobby).





Rating: ❤❤❤❤
Price: ¥¥¥
Address: 2-14-5 Kabuki-cho, Shinjuku-ku Tokyo, 160-0021, Japan
Closest Metro Station: Higashi-shinjuku
Tel: +81 3-5457-2681
Website: www.granbellhotel.jp