Toranomon, tucked neatly between the bold silhouette of Tokyo Tower and the serene expanse of the Imperial Palace, is one of Tokyo’s most intriguing neighborhoods. It’s an area that doesn’t demand attention but offers it in spades to those willing to look beyond the surface. While many visitors are drawn to the flashy districts like Shibuya and Shinjuku, Toranomon is quietly carving out a space for itself as a refined blend of history and modernity—an ever-evolving story told through its streets, buildings, and people.
The neighborhood is steeped in history, dating back to the Edo period when it was one of the gates to the Imperial Palace. Today, this history exists in harmony with the future, thanks to the emergence of Toranomon Hills. This futuristic complex is a striking symbol of Tokyo’s forward-looking vision, its gleaming towers rising against a backdrop of more traditional elements that have long defined the district. Toranomon has always been a place of transition, a passage between the old city and the new, and it still carries that sense of movement today.
As spring arrives, Toranomon’s proximity to some of Tokyo’s most renowned cherry blossom spots—like the Imperial Palace gardens—makes it an ideal base for experiencing the city’s famed hanami season. Late March through April transforms the city into a delicate, pink-hued spectacle, and Toranomon, with its serene temples and quiet streets, offers a more tranquil vantage point to enjoy the fleeting beauty of the sakura. It’s an unforgettable way to experience Tokyo, where the old and new truly come alive.
Where to Stay
Andaz Tokyo Toranomon Hills offers more than just a luxurious stay—it’s an immersion into Japan’s artistic and cultural heart. Designed by Tony Chi and Shinichiro Ogata, the hotel combines traditional Japanese elements with sleek, contemporary design. Inspired by Kyoto’s Katsura Imperial Villa, the interiors incorporate shoji doors, lanterns, and works of art that evoke Japan’s deep craft traditions.
Art is central to the experience, with standout pieces like Charlie Whinney’s “Birds in the Forest”, which adorns the ceiling of The Tavern – Grill & Lounge. Made from steam-bent oak, it brings the movement of nature into the heart of the hotel. Nearby, Whinney’s “Tree Chair” honors the trees used in his sculptures, with a base that echoes the deep roots of the natural world.
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Lobby on the 51st floor.
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Artwork inside the hotel elevators.
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'Birds in the forest,' artwork in The Tavern - Grill & Lounge
In the lobby, Shigemitsu Kotaka’s “Infinite Universe” mural captures the timeless beauty of Japan’s kumiko woodworking, creating a geometric design that speaks to the limitless future of both the hotel and the surrounding Toranomon district. Crafted from ancient teak wood, it represents the harmony of the past, present, and future—just like the neighborhood itself.
Rooms at Andaz Tokyo reflect this same harmony, with design elements that evoke a Japanese garden—moss greens, warm woods, and low futon-inspired beds. The stunning views of Tokyo Tower, the Imperial Palace, and Tokyo Bay offer a sense of being at the center of it all. Whether you’re soaking in the deep-bath tubs or savoring a cocktail at the Rooftop Bar, Andaz Tokyo connects you to the essence of the city in a way that feels both timeless and new.
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The Andaz Sky Suite.
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A Deluxe Room.
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The bathroom of a Suite.
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Blend Bar at AO Spa & Club.
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The hotel's 20-meter swimming pool.
After a long day of exploration, the AO Spa & Club, located on the 37th floor, offers a sanctuary of relaxation. The spa invites guests to personalize their own scrubs at the Blend Bar using local herbs, spices, and fresh fruits. You can unwind in the 20-meter pool, or experience the tranquil baths, designed to help you fully relax. The fitness center, equipped with the latest Technogym machines, is open 24 hours a day, making sure you can unwind or stay active whenever you wish.
Explore the Neighborhood
Toranomon is a neighborhood where history and modernity coexist in a beautifully harmonious blend. With its roots tracing back to the Edo period, Toranomon was once one of the southern gates to the Imperial Palace, and its name, which translates to “Gate of the Tiger,” evokes a sense of ancient power and significance. While the area’s traditional shops and shrines still speak to its rich past, Toranomon has evolved into a dynamic and exciting district, marked by futuristic skyscrapers, cutting-edge architecture, and immersive cultural experiences.
One of the area’s hidden gems is Atago Shrine, located just steps from Andaz Tokyo. This tranquil shrine, dedicated to Homusubi no Mikoto, the Shinto god of fire prevention, is steeped in history. Visitors can climb the famous 86 steps to reach the shrine’s main hall—said to bring success and good fortune to those who ascend them.
For a taste of local culinary tradition, make your way to Toranomon Sunaba, a soba restaurant housed in a building that’s more than 100 years old. Here, you can enjoy authentic soba noodles paired with crisp tempura, all served in a charming atmosphere that feels like a step back in time.
If you’re looking for a livelier experience, Toranomon Yokocho offers the perfect setting. Like every neighborhood in Tokyo, Toranomon has its own yokocho—a narrow alley filled with small, atmospheric restaurants and bars. This one stands out for its diverse range of options, from Michelin-starred dining to more casual spots, including a local gin distillery. It’s the perfect place to hop from one bar to another and savor the flavors of the neighborhood.
For those interested in art and innovation, Tokyo NODE is a must-visit. This exhibition space brings together art, technology, and entertainment in an ever-changing array of temporary exhibits. Each exhibition transports visitors into a unique themed environment, offering a fascinating glimpse into the intersection of creativity and technology.
Toranomon is a neighborhood that balances the weight of history with the pulse of the future, and with every step, you’ll find something new to discover—whether it’s a centuries-old shrine, a modern art installation, or a bustling street filled with culinary delights. It’s the perfect place to experience the multifaceted spirit of Tokyo.
Learn more about Andaz Tokyo Toranomon Hills: andaztokyo.jp
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