The Okura Tokyo Hotel Review, Japan

The original was synonymous with the highest quality five-star omotenashi (that tricky-to-translate concept of deeply intuitive and unwaveringly discreet Japanese service). The new incarnation appears to live up to its legacy of superlative service: from the gently bowing kimono-clad lift staff and the immaculately maintained ikebana displays (flower arrangements), to the front desk staff who went to great lengths to try to pronounce my name correctly (always a challenge in Japanese).

In terms of facilities, be prepared to get a little lost, thanks to its grand scale: there are seven restaurants and bars, a delicatessen, a pool and a fitness centre, two chapels, a Shinto shrine, an impressive 19 function rooms and a tea ceremony room. A highlight is the 26th-floor Annayake spa, home to quality massages and facials (the Tsuchi treatment – fusing Western and Japanese massage techniques – is blissfully grounding), which perfectly complement the communal, Japanese-style baths. The 27th-floor pool and gym has epic walls of windows overlooking the skyline.

The traditional red-roofed architecture of the on-site Okura Museum of Art, just opposite the main entrance (and Japan’s first private art museum), showcases exhibitions from its impressive collection of traditional artworks (guests receive free entry). Also, if you are lucky enough to visit on the 25th of the month, don’t miss the atmospheric monthly concerts, curated by a renowned Japanese conductor, in the main lobby.