BELLUSTAR TOKYO, A Pan Pacific Hotel

We stayed at the Fairmont Tokyo first, then moved to Bellustar Tokyo, A Pan Pacific Hotel, and came away disappointed after comparing the two. The rooms are beautiful and modern, the views are great, and the subway is very close. Still, compared with other five star hotels we stayed at on this Tokyo trip and our previous visit, this felt more like a four star property. The area outside was full of young people who were drunk, shouting, and even vomiting in the street, and sirens and outside noise were very loud all night. It didn’t feel like a five star setting. Breakfast was a letdown too. The selection was limited, and we waited about fifteen minutes just to get regular bread. There was only one elevator to the lobby, which meant long waits. In the room, there was a small bar of soap but no liquid hand soap, and the shower products were basic, with small bottles instead of the proper shampoo and conditioner dispensers even many three star hotels have. The minibar was mostly alcohol, with very little choice. We booked through American Express Platinum Fine Hotels and Resorts, but didn’t receive an upgrade. In over twenty stays in that category, this was the first time that happened, and the staff also seemed unsure about the American Express arrangement. Normally early check-in at 12:00 is possible. At first we were told the room wasn’t ready, then shortly afterward it suddenly was. Checkout took a long time as well. The modern design and location were good, but it didn’t meet our expectations for a true five star stay.

After almost three hours of driving, trains, and buses, we got to the hotel and check-in was quick. They offered us juice and tea while we waited. The place was spacious and clean, and our room was especially clean and hygienic, with lots of useful extras in the toilet and plenty of space. The lounge had Madeline cakes, macarons, juice, and coffee. The staff were incredibly friendly. They even wished us a happy new year in our home language, showed us around the room, and brought more slippers quickly when we asked. It’s a big, clean, luxurious hotel with great service and a nice lounge. I love this place.

I’m always glad to come back. The room is spacious, with a great view, a good location, and complete amenities and toiletries. But on checkout day we had to manage our own luggage while the staff just stood there. For a five star hotel, I think they could provide better service. Also, there is a convenience store nearby, but it’s very small and crowded, perhaps because of the location.

The calm scent in the lobby was such a lovely change after walking through the busy streets, and I can’t wait to stay again. My husband and I were so pleased with the hospitality, the stunning views, thoughtful touches, and excellent service. I enjoyed reading the booklet in our room about the modern art throughout the hotel, and learning that the tower’s design represents a fountain and reflects the neighborhood’s history. Somehow we were upgraded to an unreal two bedroom suite. It felt like being in a movie, and I had to pinch myself. At check-in, Rustem greeted us. We were lucky he speaks Russian. He gave us a few tips for tourists and helped us find the taxi we’d booked when we couldn’t locate it. Thanks!