OMO5 Tokyo Gotanda by Hoshino Resorts, Japan hotel review
The hotel is located away from the main tourist spots, in the lesser-known district of Gotanda, where locals like to go for dinner and drinks at the weekend. This location makes it ideal for travellers who want to stay centrally without breaking the bank. The hotel is hidden in a high-rise building just a stone's throw from the Meguro River and the Yamanote train station, on the all-important loop that connects Tokyo's most popular hubs and airports. Nearby are plenty of tiny izakaya bars, coffee shops, ramen restaurants and karaoke joints to enjoy.
Vibe
While OMO5 Tokyo Gotanda by Hoshino Resorts is not a fancy hotel, it is fun. The two excitable dogs and the equally animated owners who greet you on arrival in the 14th-floor reception area are early evidence of that. Playful twists abound inside, from onigiri breakfasts to the large sky garden and pet area.
The hotel's motto, 'Go-Kinjo' (fun around the neighbourhood) is printed on a large map in the entrance lobby and the smiling staff are always on hand to recommend one of the many nearby restaurants, including hundreds of great ramen options.
At first, the sight of dogs in strollers in the reception area can be a bit disconcerting, but you quickly realise it's a novelty that won't affect your stay. For anyone not inclined to enjoy queuing behind a Pomeranian for a room key, don't worry, the pet-friendly rooms are specific to the 14th floor and feature direct access to a dedicated dog garden.
The overall design is quintessentially Japanese: warm and unfussy. There is pale wood furniture and hand-drawn maps on the walls.
Service
Staff double as local area guides and are genuinely happy to give you recommendations for hidden gems located nearby. The hotel prides itself on the Gotanda Gourmet Reception, where a dedicated member of staff will suggest nearby restaurants and bars depending on your preference. They also offer a special ticket and voucher for local businesses.
Check-in was quick and mostly digital, but friendly receptionists are there to help and were quick to offer up free storage for our bags after check-out.
Bed and Bath
Most rooms enjoy sweeping views of the city through large panoramic windows. Like in most Japanese hotels, the design is compact without feeling small. The area around the beds have tatami flooring, soft, woven mats, so it's no shoes allowed.
Rooms come with standard amenities, including a small fridge, kettle, robes and toiletries.
There are eight types of room, ranging from the King Room to OMO House Suite. The suite sleeps six and includes a kitchen. For furry friends there are also two dog-friendly options; the dog-friendly twin room and dog-friendly deluxe room.
Food and Drink
The hotel encourages you to eat out in the surrounding restaurants, describing them as 'part of the resort'. There's no full-service restaurant in the building, however there is an in-house café-bar open through to 11pm, serving drinks and snacks to enjoy in the sky garden with its views spread wide across Tokyo.
Hungry after 11pm? The nearby Family Mart is open 24/7 for the snacks made famous by your favourite travel influencer.
In the morning there is a special onigiri rice ball breakfast supervised by what the hotel calls a 'five-star rice master'. There is an option to choose two out of ten toppings for your miso soup. And if that's not your thing, an American breakfast is also available.
There is a 24-hour gym with more stunning views over the local area that's perfect for people watching while working out.
There is free Wi-Fi and lockers, laundry facilities and a guest-only lounge. For the dogs (yes, really), there is a dedicated garden and a dog-shower room.
Disability access
There are elevators on every floor and the sky garden is easily accessible.
Pet policy
Extremely welcome.
Check in/check out?
Check in at 3pm; checkout at 11am.
Family-friendly?
Yes, very.
At a glance
Best thing: The focus on local bars and restaurants is a nice touch. Tokyo can be overwhelming, but having local staff suggest brilliant places to visit just a short walk away is a unique selling point.
Perfect for: Those with an obsession for Japanese food, or those travelling with a dog or two.
Not right for: Travellers who want to be wined and dined at their hotel.
Instagram from: The skygarden with views over Tokyo and added cute dogs.
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