EXECUTIVE HOUSE ZEN: The Elegant Retreat at Hotel New Otani Tokyo

The Essence of Tokyo: Luxury and Serenity Steps Away from the Action

Nestled in the heart of Tokyo's Chiyoda district, the EXECUTIVE HOUSE ZEN at Hotel New Otani Tokyo offers an ideal location for travelers seeking luxury and tranquility. This prestigious establishment is located in close proximity to Akasaka Palace, government offices, and the financial district, while being just minutes by metro from lively neighborhoods such as Roppongi, Shinjuku, and Ginza. Surrounded by parks, palaces, and temples, this hotel is a true haven of peace that allows guests to embrace the city's dynamism while offering a serene setting inspired by Zen philosophy. Guests benefit from easy access to a multitude of luxury services and amenities, making this hotel an essential destination for a refined stay in Tokyo.

An Exclusive Boutique Hotel Within Hotel New Otani Tokyo

Within Hotel New Otani Tokyo, the EXECUTIVE HOUSE ZEN embodies the refined concept of a "hotel within a hotel"—an oasis of luxury and tranquility nestled in the heart of the vibrant metropolis. Since its opening in 2007, this exclusive enclave has distinguished itself through its ability to offer an experience of absolute serenity, merging exceptional personalized service with the very essence of Japanese "Zen." The rooms, located on the 11th and 12th floors, overlook the splendid Akasaka Garden, one of Tokyo's rare green spaces, offering guests a peaceful refuge away from urban commotion. Guests enjoy privileged access to the hotel's facilities, including a fitness club, spa, and an impressive selection of 38 restaurants, all while savoring traditional Japanese hospitality and ultimate comfort in this luxurious setting.

A Haven of Serenity with a View

At the EXECUTIVE HOUSE ZEN, each room is an invitation to serenity, with 87 beautifully appointed accommodations, including eight suites. The décor harmonizes bold black accents, evoking ink strokes on paper, with subtly placed artwork adorning the walls. Natural elements such as bonsai trees, miniature rock gardens, and antique Asian pottery add a touch of timeless elegance. We stayed in an Executive Deluxe Double, a spacious 50 m² room offering breathtaking views from both the bedroom and bathtub. The bathroom extends this sanctuary of relaxation, featuring Salvatore Ferragamo bath products for the ultimate wellness experience. Located on the 11th and 12th floors, the rooms offer stunning panoramas, adding another dimension to this already sumptuous setting.

A Paradise for Gourmets in Pursuit of Excellence

Guests have the privilege of discovering an unparalleled culinary array within Hotel New Otani, where 38 exceptional restaurants await them. Among these prestigious establishments, Tour D'Argent Tokyo stands out for its heritage and worldwide reputation. This institution of French gastronomy, dating back to 1582, offers in Tokyo a unique culinary experience that reflects the splendor of its Parisian counterpart. At the other end of the gastronomic spectrum, enthusiasts of authentic Japanese cuisine can delight in the dishes at Sekishin-Tei, nestled in the hotel's lush garden. This intimate teppanyaki restaurant offers soothing views of a koi pond, while expert chefs grill Wagyu beef and seafood to perfection, promising an unforgettable culinary experience.

For a more contemporary culinary adventure, View & Dining The Sky offers a buffet concept where each dish is prepared à la minute by talented chefs, all while providing a 360-degree panoramic view of Tokyo. For Japanese cuisine aficionados, Fumizen is a must-visit with its tonkatsu—a breaded and fried pork cutlet served with cabbage, white rice, and miso soup. Isehiro, meanwhile, captivates with its yakitori, grilled chicken skewers prepared according to a tradition dating back to 1921. Sweet treats are equally impressive with Pierre Hermé's pastry creations, whose seasonal desserts evoke the sophisticated flavors of Paris. Finally, for a relaxed evening, Bar Capri offers exclusive cocktails in an elegant atmosphere, enhanced by works from artist Paul Aizpiri. This variety of culinary options makes Hotel New Otani a true paradise for epicureans.

Pierre Hermé Delights and Drappier Bubbles at the Zen Lounge

At the EXECUTIVE HOUSE ZEN, every room stay includes direct and privileged access to the sumptuous Zen Lounge. A true oasis of refinement and gastronomic pleasure, this exclusive lounge offers guests an unparalleled taste experience through its six daily culinary presentations. Begin the day with a sumptuous breakfast that skillfully blends Japanese and Western flavors, including baked eggs and fresh pastries from Pierre Hermé. Throughout the day, guests can indulge in light meals and delicate snacks, accompanied by hot and cold beverages, for a gourmet break at any moment.

In the evening, the Zen Lounge transforms into a place of relaxation where one can savor a glass of Drappier Champagne accompanied by refined hors d'œuvres, before ending the evening in style with a digestif and melting chocolates. Every detail is carefully considered to offer guests a memorable experience, from the welcome ginger ameyu drink to the pastries crafted by master pâtissier Pierre Hermé, whose creations elevate every moment spent in this enchanting setting.

The Golden Spa

The Golden Spa is a true sanctuary of wellness and fitness, offering a luxurious and exclusive experience to its members. This prestigious fitness center features a state-of-the-art gym, an elegant indoor pool, and a soothing sauna. EXECUTIVE HOUSE ZEN guests enjoy complimentary access to these facilities, allowing them to relax and rejuvenate in complete tranquility. In addition to the sports equipment, the hotel invites you to treat yourself to a moment of ultimate relaxation with a refined selection of spa treatments, as well as by the outdoor pool when the season permits.

The Epic of the Seasons: A Journey Through the Japanese Garden

The history of Hotel New Otani Tokyo's Japanese garden is deeply rooted in Japan's prestigious past. Spanning over 4 hectares, this garden dates back more than 400 years and was once the domain of influential figures such as Lord Kato Kiyomasa. During the Edo period, the property was in the hands of the powerful Ii family, before being acquired by the imperial Fushiminomiya family in the Meiji era. After World War II, Yonetaro Otani, founder of Hotel New Otani, purchased the land and undertook the garden's restoration. It was on the occasion of the 1964 Tokyo Olympics that the hotel was built on this site, incorporating the garden as one of its most treasured attractions.

Today, the Japanese garden is a true aesthetic masterpiece, offering a changing spectacle with each season. It is a unique and almost unbelievable experience to discover such a garden within a hotel—an oasis of tranquility amid Tokyo's effervescence. Visitors, whether staying at the hotel or not, are invited to stroll along peaceful paths, cross picturesque vermillion bridges, and settle by koi-filled ponds for a moment of relaxation and contemplation. Since 2014, the lighting concept designed by light artist Motoko Ishii has enhanced the garden each night, transforming the space into an enchanting visual spectacle that evolves with the seasons.

My Review

The EXECUTIVE HOUSE ZEN embodies the innovative concept of a "hotel within a hotel," offering an exclusive experience in the heart of the prestigious Hotel New Otani Tokyo. Guests benefit from a dual advantage: access to the exceptional facilities of a grand establishment while enjoying the intimacy and personalization of a dedicated space. Another undeniable asset of this hotel is its historic Japanese garden, a true oasis of beauty and serenity that invites contemplation throughout the seasons. This privileged setting promises a stay that harmoniously combines urban dynamism and natural serenity in the heart of Tokyo.

What I Loved:

• The exclusivity of the EXECUTIVE HOUSE ZEN with its lounge, while benefiting from a vast complex offering numerous restaurants.
• A very comfortable room with a beautiful view, including Mount Fuji in the distance.
• An exceptional Japanese garden, a true asset in the heart of Tokyo.

What I Missed:

• A very preserved and pleasant environment, but one that limits options in the immediate vicinity of the hotel.

Practical Information

• Executive Deluxe Double room at a rate of €800 in February 2026