By Noura Khan
Exclusive to The Times Kuwait
As someone visiting Japan for the first time, I found myself instantly captivated by Tokyo’s unique energy. It is a city of striking contrasts—where futuristic skyscrapers coexist with centuries-old shrines, and where the fast-paced rhythm of urban life is balanced by moments of deep tradition and quiet reflection. From the very beginning, Tokyo felt both exhilarating and unexpectedly serene—a place that invites you to explore, then pause, then fall in love.
My most recent trip was made even more special by my stay at Executive House Zen, the exclusive luxury wing within the iconic Hotel New Otani Tokyo.
I was searching for a retreat that offered both indulgent comfort and an authentic Japanese experience. So I chose to begin my journey with a few nights at Executive House Zen, followed by additional nights in the hotel’s main tower, known as The Main. This seamless transition between the two gave me a comprehensive experience: the calm sophistication of Zen and the vibrant pulse of The Main.
The hotel is ideally located in Nagatacho, one of Tokyo’s most prestigious and tranquil neighborhoods—known as Japan’s political center with government buildings and ministries nearby. Despite the calm surroundings, the hotel’s location is remarkably central. It is just a short walk to Akasaka-Mitsuke Station, offering direct access to Tokyo’s extensive metro network. This made it effortless to reach popular districts like Ginza, Shibuya, and Harajuku. Additionally, Yotsuya Station, which connects to JR lines, is also close by, offering convenient routes for day trips or exploring further afield.
My suite at Executive House Zen was a serene sanctuary. The design blended soft earthy tones, refined wooden floors, and minimalist décor with subtle, luxurious touches. The panoramic windows offered a mesmerizing view of the hotel’s famous Japanese gardens, stretching out below like a living, breathing painting.
One of the highlights was the traditional Japanese bath experience in my room. A deep soaking tub, paired with aromatic oils, handcrafted bath amenities, and a warm cup of tea, turned each evening into a soothing ritual. It was a moment of stillness — a true immersion into Japanese culture and relaxation.
What sets Executive House Zen apart even further is the dedicated concierge service—a personalized offering where guests can request tailored itineraries, make exclusive restaurant reservations, and enjoy seamless assistance with any needs. It added an extra layer of ease and attentiveness to my stay, elevating the sense of being truly cared for.
Another memorable feature is the Executive Lounge, which offers curated selections of food and beverages throughout the day: a refined breakfast, elegant afternoon tea, evening cocktails, and late-night bites. While every detail was carefully considered, the view from the lounge was unforgettable—on clear days, you can even see the majestic Mt. Fuji in the distance, a sight that adds magic to every moment.
One of the hotel’s greatest treasures is its historic Japanese garden, dating back over 400 years to the Edo period. Originally designed as part of a samurai lord’s estate, the garden reflects centuries of Japanese landscaping tradition. With koi ponds, stone lanterns, waterfalls, and wooden bridges, it’s hard to believe such a tranquil oasis exists in the middle of Tokyo.
Every morning, I made it a habit to walk through the garden, taking in the seasonal flowers, the rustle of the trees, and the serene sounds of running water. It felt meditative—not just a place of beauty, but a place where history, nature, and mindfulness meet.
After my peaceful nights at Zen, I moved to a suite in The Main, which offers a livelier, more socially active atmosphere while still upholding the same level of refined service. The room I stayed in was a newly renovated Shin-Edo Suite, a beautiful expression of modern Japanese design. One of its standout features was the cypress wood bathtub, evoking the warm, relaxing vibes of a traditional onsen experience—even though the water itself is not from a hot spring.
What truly amazed me was how much the hotel complex has to offer. With over 30 restaurants and cafés, the New Otani is practically a culinary destination of its own. From traditional kaiseki and sushi to French, Italian, and modern Japanese cuisine, there is something for every palate.
There are also several boutiques and luxury shops within the hotel, offering everything from handcrafted Japanese souvenirs to designer fashion and art galleries. It is entirely possible to spend a day just exploring what the hotel has to offer—without ever leaving the property.
Everything I have ever heard about Japanese hospitality came to life here. The service is discreet yet attentive, thoughtful yet never intrusive. Every request, every gesture, was met with a genuine smile and an almost intuitive understanding of comfort.
My stay at Executive House Zen, followed by time in The Main, offered me a deeply enriching, luxurious, and culturally immersive experience in Tokyo. It is not just a hotel stay—it’s a journey into the heart of refined Japanese living.
Noura Khan, a travel influencer and content creator, is a Kuwaiti national, holds a degree in law from Kuwait University and has worked as a journalist prior to taking up a position in the government. In 2018 she started blogging on travel and visited more than 57 countries since. She has more than 105k followers on her blog post @nourajtraveller is well appreciated for content and travel information. Noura writes exclusively for The Times Kuwait on her travel visits.
