Stay at One@Tokyo, an Urban Secret Place Designed by Kengo Kuma
#JanuaryGoodPlaces2025
This time when I came to Tokyo, I chose to stay at One@Tokyo in Oshiage, a design hotel designed by the famous architect Kengo Kuma. Kengo Kuma is known for his use of wood, natural elements and Japanese aesthetics, and this hotel is one of his signature works, combining modern industrial style with the warm Japanese wood texture to create a quiet and design-filled space in the bustling city.
🏨 Hotel design: Architectural aesthetics that combines the warmth of wood with an urban feel
The architectural appearance of One@Tokyo is different from that of ordinary business hotels. It makes extensive use of wood and steel frame structures to create a warm and slightly industrial visual effect. This design technique is consistent with Kengo Kuma's other works, such as the New National Stadium and the Asakusa Culture Tourist Center, where his delicate use of "wood" can be seen.
As soon as you enter the hotel lobby, the simple design style immediately makes you feel relaxed. Large floor-to-ceiling windows bring in natural light, and the wooden tables and chairs and green embellishments make the entire space full of warmth, rather than a cold modern building.
🛏️ Room type: Simple but stylish space
This time we stayed in a Superior Room, which was not very big but was very cleverly designed. The room continues Kengo Kuma's design concept, using raw wood materials and pure white tones to create a simple atmosphere, and is matched with large glass windows to allow sunlight to fully shine into the room, making the space feel more open than it actually is.
The wooden grille at the head of the bed and the structural design of the ceiling both reflect the details of Japanese minimalist aesthetics. Although the hotel follows the concept of a design hotel, it has all the necessary facilities, including a Nespresso coffee machine, a minibar, free Wi-Fi, and even a simple office area, making it very suitable for independent travelers or business travelers.
🗼 Terrace view: Enjoy the stunning view of Tokyo Skytree up close
One of the biggest highlights of One@Tokyo is the view from the rooftop terrace. The hotel is very close to the Tokyo Skytree. At night, you can go to the terrace to enjoy the night light show of the Skytree up close. The view is excellent and it is also very nice to take pictures!
If you don't want to go outside and squeeze in with the crowds, having a cup of coffee on the terrace and enjoying the city view of Tokyo is also a very pleasant choice.
🍽️ Dining experience: Simple but delicious breakfast
The hotel provides a simple continental breakfast, mainly light meals, including bread, salad, yogurt, coffee, etc. Although there are not many choices, the ingredients are fresh and the overall taste is refreshing. The restaurant's spatial design also continues the hotel's simple wooden style, and it feels quite relaxing to sit here and dine.
🚇 Transportation location: Close to Oshiage Station, a good base for exploring Tokyo's eastern district
One@Tokyo is located near Oshiage Station, about a 5-7 minute walk away. From here, it is very convenient to take the subway or Tobu Line to Asakusa, Ueno, Akihabara and other places. Moreover, it is very close to the Tokyo Skytree business district, and you can easily reach there on foot for shopping, food and sightseeing.
💞Recommendation reason: High-quality accommodation experience suitable for design lovers
If you like minimalist design, Kengo Kuma's architectural style, or are looking for a reasonably priced design hotel close to Tokyo Skytree, then One@Tokyo is definitely an option worth considering.
Although the rooms here are not big, the space is designed to be comfortable. The combination of wooden elements and industrial style adds a sense of design aesthetics to the journey. For travelers who want to experience a different atmosphere in Tokyo and get away from the busy downtown areas like Shinjuku and Shibuya, this would be a great accommodation choice!