The Imperial Hotel, Tokyo is known for having stars from all over the world stay there. Opened in 1890, the hotel has a long history and it first served as the State Guest House. Staying there is a dream, but anyone can of course enjoy a fabulous tea time without staying overnight. On top of that, you can also enjoy gorgeous works of art!
After strolling around Hibiya Park, I entered the hotel through the main entrance. The smiling hotel staff greeted me while I walked towards the gorgeous chandelier and beautiful flower arrangement in the center of the lobby.
A “Wall of Light” at the Rendez-Vous Lounge
The Rendez-Vous Lounge in the hotel lobby is an open space with a calm atmosphere. It is a good place for a wide range of situations such as meet-ups, business meetings, small family gatherings, and tea parties with friends.
The interior is also amazing! The huge artwork “Reimei” (meaning dawn, also called “Wall of Light” by Minami Tada, 1970) that covers the entire wall is really impressive and you don’t get tired looking at it. The colorful glass blocks shine in delicate color gradations expressing a “seaside scene at dawn”. Beautiful!
Trying the superb cake!
Eventually, I sat down and had not one, but two kinds of their recommended cakes. The table in the corner is a special seat of the Rendez-Vous Lounge that allows you to get a look at the “Wall of Light” up close!
My first cake choice was the “Japanese Chestnut Cake”. I really enjoyed the light sweetness which made the taste feel very polished. The Japanese chestnut cream, sponge cake, whipped cream, and the nuts were exactly what you would expect when you think of an autumnal taste!
The next cake was the hotel’s famous “Blueberry Pie”. The popular product has been baked using the basically same recipe since the opening “Gargantua” (1971) ー a hotel shop that sells takeaway cakes and souvenirs.
Back to the pie. The pie is made by combining two different types of puff pastry finished with a buttery flavor. The crispy pie, the rich-tasting blueberry filling, warmed up for the perfect harmony together with ice cream and whipped cream, what else do you need?
Whether you stop by after a walk in Hibiya Park or for a break after a shopping spree, the lounge of the Imperial Hotel, Tokyo is the perfect place for a special tea time surrounded by beautiful artworks!
Imperial Hotel, Tokyo
https://www.imperialhotel.co.jp/j/tokyo/
1-1-1 Uchisaiwaicho, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo
Google Maps: https://goo.gl/maps/gpf4qbacz8JeJwa68
Nearest Stations: Hibiya Station, Uchisaiwaicho Station, Ginza Station, Yurakucho Station, Shimbashi Station