Tokyo is a city of endless discoveries. If you are a first-time traveller to the city, you might wonder what to do, where to go, and especially where to stay! That’s why today, I will tell you about my recent stay at Shiba Park Hotel, a hotel with a perfect blend of traditional hospitality and contemporary comfort. This amazing hotel is truly one of a kind, and I myself can’t recommend enough that you stay here if you are planning a trip to Tokyo!
An old photo of the hotel you can see in the lobby – Credit: Jessica Iragne
Established in 1948, this long-standing hotel has evolved while maintaining its charm, and its latest transformation from 2020 to 2023 has made it a truly unique space—a library hotel dedicated to culture, history, and art. But before we get into that, let me tell you about one of the most important parts of any hotel stay, my room!
Standard king room – Credit: Jessica Iragne
My Stay in a Standard King Room
For my recent stay, I had the opportunity to try a Standard King Room, which provided the perfect balance of space and comfort. The room featured a king-sized bed (it was so big that I almost got lost in it!) with really soft linens, ensuring you a restful night’s sleep after a day of exploring Tokyo. It was truly bliss.
The couch in the room – Credit: Jessica Iragne
But, unlike many hotels, the bed wasn’t the only feature of the room. There were also plenty of thoughtful touches like ambient lighting, a nice art piece on the wall, a couch with cushions, a big TV and of course a fridge and security box. Each and every piece made the room feel just that much more secure and cozy, like a true home away from home.
Amenities in the bathroom – Credit: Jessica Iragne
Just like its sister hotel Park Hotel Tokyo, the bathroom was equipped with eco-friendly amenities that reflect a dedication to a greener future. All the products were the incredible Millennium Organics Blue Label with over 90% plant- and mineral-derived ingredients and no artificial fragrances. Additionally, items like razors and hairbrushes contain natural materials, reinforcing their eco-conscious approach.
Coffee and tea are available in the room – Credit: Jessica Iragne
Free coffee and tea are also available in the room, and instead of the usual plastic water bottles provided, guests can use a jug provided in their room and refill it at the filtered water dispensers available on each floor. This convenient setup allows access to fresh water anytime while also promoting an eco-friendly practice! It’s the little things like these that allow you to rest easy knowing that you’re helping the environment.
Entrance of the hotel and part of the library – Credit: Jessica Iragne
A Library Hotel Experience
As I mentioned earlier, what makes Shiba Park Hotel truly special is its deep connection to knowledge and culture. The hotel features thoughtfully curated library corners, designed in collaboration with Ginza Tsutaya Bookstore. These nooks together offer a collection of 1,500 books covering not only Japanese but also foreign culture, architecture, photography, music, travel, art, and more.
Reading corner on the 11th floor – Credit: Jessica Iragne
The hotel offers cozy seating areas with sofas on most floors, providing comfortable spots to relax and read. It’s the perfect environment to get yourself lost in another world.
Each floor’s theme – Credit: Jessica Iragne
Each floor features a unique theme, adding to the charm of the experience. I visited the Photography, Art and Travel section and the selection was amazing! I honestly wish I had more time to relax and just chill in these small areas. This is definitely a relaxing place where you can get some rest and fun after a long day of strolling the streets of Tokyo.
2nd floor at Shiba Park Hotel – Credit: Jessica Iragne
The 2nd floor is also a dedicated space with more books, some art pieces, and a comfy sofa you can sit on to relax. (Yes, you can sit below the tree that you can see in the photo!) And, of course, last but not least, the lobby is also very cosy and invites guests to indulge in quiet reading moments, adding a layer of depth to their stay. They make sure to ensure you get the full curated experience from the minute you walk through the front doors.
If you are a book lover and looking to learn more about Japan, you will probably find yourself lost in the pages of fascinating stories and insights into the country’s heritage, food, music, and more. It’s truly a glorious place for lovers of Japanese culture, history, and traditions.
Tea ceremony – Credit: Jessica Iragne
Engaging Cultural Experiences
Beyond its cozy library corners, the hotel offers enriching cultural experiences such as a Table-Style Tea Ceremony in the lobby every Thursday at 10 AM. Instead of sitting in a tatami room, this version is a modern take on Japan’s iconic ritual, making it more accessible and engaging for guests. You can just casually stop by and enjoy!
Bowl of Matcha – Credit: Jessica Iragne
After watching the masters making the Matcha tea and preparing the little track for you including a little sweet and your bowl, you can move to the lobby and savour a quiet moment before heading out to explore the city. Trust me, the perfectly brewed tea combined with an amazing book is an experience like none other and is the best way to get ready for a full day of exploring.
In addition to this, they also offer a Kintsugi experience (but you need to book well in advance, so make sure to do it on time), the traditional Japanese art of repairing broken pottery with gold. This practice beautifully symbolizes resilience and sustainability. I, unfortunately, was unable to attend the Kintsugi experience while I was there, but I truly hope I will be able to try it in the future.
Sukiyaki – Credit: Jessica Iragne
Dining at The Dining
Obviously, as a foodie, I was excited to discover the food at Shiba Park Hotel. For food enthusiasts like me, The Dining offers a diverse menu including Japanese, Western, and Chinese cuisine. I enjoyed a delightful dinner there and of course, I chose the “Japanese full course menu” (I had to make the “ultimate sacrifice” and eat that one just to take photos and show you all you know…!). But if you want to take a break from Japanese food during your trip, this restaurant is your chance to try something else.
Sashimi plate – Credit: Jessica Iragne
The course I chose featured fresh sashimi, succulent wagyu sukiyaki, crispy tempura, sushi, dessert, and more—a delicious journey through Japanese flavours! Truly the perfect meal to end the day. If you’re considering this set, come hungry—it’s a generous feast!
Tempura set – Credit: Jessica Iragne
They also have “A la carte” options. And great news for all vegans, they just launched a vegan dinner menu. No matter what your diet is, there’s bound to be something here for you, and I guarantee it will be delicious.
Breakfast plate – Credit: Jessica Iragne
The breakfast is also held in the same restaurant with a mix of Japanese and Western dishes. Because I was still full from the full-course dinner, unfortunately, I just had some fruit and coffee, but also bread and cheese (I am French, I can’t help it). Even if it was a little simpler, everything was delicious. Of course, they had eggs, sausages, salads, cereals, but also Japanese miso soup rice and a lot of other things to try.
Part of the lobby, in front of the reception – Credit: Jessica Iragne
A Top-Level Service
The staff, both at the counter and in the restaurant, spoke excellent English, making the experience much more comfortable for travellers. It’s always reassuring when you don’t have to worry about being understood! They also provided a clear and detailed explanation of the dinner course, including each ingredient and how to enjoy every dish.
Drink machine in the lobby – Credit: Jessica Iragne
In addition to that, the hotel provides complimentary coffee and tea in the lobby, but also paid options like wine, Japanese sake and beer for those who wish to unwind further. Every single part of your stay has been thoughtfully crafted to not only ensure that you are relaxed but also fully enjoy your stay.
I really recommend Shiba Park Hotel if you are planning to visit Tokyo. The hotel is more than just a place to stay—it’s an immersive cultural experience and a book paradise. Whether you’re a reader or a traveler seeking comfort with a sustainable touch, this hotel offers something truly special. Shiba Park Hotel has created the perfect spot, a home away from home for any traveller. I left feeling enriched and inspired, already looking forward to my next visit.
Address: 1 Chome-5-10 Shibakoen, Minato City, Tokyo 105-0011
Google Maps Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/qRnuWUGFBM42Yxf56
Feature Photo: Jessica Iragne
