Towering high above the crowded bustle and neon-lit district of Shinjuku is a luxury hotel that’s dedicated, even more than most, to a sense of secluded tranquility. BELLUSTAR Tokyo occupies the top nine floors of architect Yuko Nagayama’s new 47-story Tokyu Kabukicho Tower, which you can reach via a glass-walled elevator, and from within its sober, minimalist, nearly monochrome interiors, the buzz of city life is a distant memory.
The property opened in May 2023, and with two hotels, an arcade, a theatre, and a food hall, the Tokyu Kabukicho Tower is an extension of its pulsating neighbourhood. Renowned for its graceful luxury and heartfelt hospitality, the Pan Pacific brand delivers personalised experiences with a touch of sincerity.
Inside, at the apex of the 97-room hotel, are three floors that are home to five deluxe penthouses, three restaurants, and a spa, designed by Tokyo’s Keiji Ashizawa Design and Copenhagen-based Norm Architects. The lower levels and guest rooms are designed by Kume Sekkei – each with floor-to-ceiling windows and conceptually inspired by traditional Japanese living. The expansive Sky Villa on the 47th floor features a spa treatment room and a jet bath overlooking the skyline, while others boast spacious living areas, fully equipped kitchens, and bars.
The hotel offers a wide range of culinary experiences at its restaurants and bar, on the 45th floor. The expertly crafted menus and attentive service elevate every dining experience. Restaurant Bellustar, the hotel’s sky-high contemporary French restaurant, offers a gastronomic journey through various regions across Japan, whilst at Teppan Ten-yu, guests can indulge in dishes using seasonal ingredients made using teppanyaki techniques. A highlight dish is the “Ishigakijima Kitauchi Farm Premium Beef” from Ishigaki Island, Okinawa.
To unwind, SPA sunya, aptly named “sky” in Sanskrit, offers a sanctuary of tranquillity with indulgent spa and facial treatments on the 47th floor, which use a harmonious blend of traditional Japanese healing techniques and modern spa practices.
The hotel houses a fascinating collection of new and existing artworks created by 26 different local artists. With a particular focus on artists associated with Kabukicho and Shinjuku, such as Ushio Shinohara and Daido Moriyama, the hotel’s art collection celebrates the creative spirit of the region. Furthermore, some of the artwork within the hotel is exclusive to the property and can only be enjoyed by staying guests.
Rates start from ¥75,900 (£370) including breakfast, the tax and 15% service charge for a double room.
1 Chome-29-1 Kabukicho, Shinjuku City, Tokyo 160-0021, Japan
