When standing in front of the famous Hilltop Hotel (the Japanese name is Yamanoue Hotel), try looking up, and you can clearly see the classic yet modern architecture of the Art Deco style. The hotel recently reopened after a construction period during which the hotel was transformed back to its original appearance (from 1937!) based on some old blueprints.
The geometric terrazzo pattern on the floor of the hotel’s entrance lobby, and the straight-lined, understated décor, are truly Art Deco. Just like Art Deco, you’ll find nothing “too extra” or “too much” at “Hilltop Hotel”. Still, the interior has more details than for example a Bauhaus style building. Every small detail you find has a certain “warmth” to it making this building really remarkable.
Especially the lounge near the hotel shop is interesting. The tables placed in front of each sofa are so small!
This unusual sizing creates a completely different atmosphere. Wonderful! It’s a place with old flair making you relax to the core. This might be the only hotel in Tokyo with this kind of nostalgic ambience.
A relaxing space for artists and writers of all decades
When Hilltop Hotel opened its doors in 1954, there still weren’t a lot of salons and hotels in Tokyo for writers and artists to meet and chat. Therefore, the Hilltop Hotel soon became a very popular place among Japan’s great writers. Big names such as Yasunari Kawabata and Yukio Mishima stayed at this hotel many times!
Seven restaurants to choose from
The hotel has 35 guest rooms, but seven restaurants! Therefore, you can choose a restaurant according to your mood and needs. The hotel’s restaurants include a variety ranging from tempura and Japanese cuisine, to Chinese cuisine, teppanyaki, a bar, and even a wine bar. Of course, you can use all the restaurants without staying at the hotel, too.
When you immerse yourself in a place that has steered clear of modern items and gadgets as much as possible, you will feel how time begins flowing slower and slower… This is how new ideas are born. Unquestionably, this hotel will be loved by artistic people and become a source of inspiration for everyone visiting this magical historic place.
Enjoy the retro ambiance of the “Hilltop Hotel”!
Hilltop Hotel (Yamanoue Hotel)
https://www.yamanoue-hotel.co.jp
1-1 Kanda Surugadai, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo
Google Maps: https://goo.gl/maps/pB48mgMFNfJCrQdNA
Nearest stations: Ochanomizu Station, Shin-Ochanomizu Station, Jimbocho Station
