Grand Nikko Tokyo Daiba

The Grand Nikko Tokyo Daiba's massive entrance opens into a vast space with floor-to-ceiling windows marked by shiny silver columns and a split staircase rising to the mezzanine. Farther in, the lobby is dominated by a domed ceiling supported by thick stone pillars, with blue chairs arranged around a central dais underneath. Directly above, balconies around the interior of the dome provide a view into the lobby from the third floor art gallery. The overall effect is grand, if a little cold. A mix of guests come to the property, from families to business travelers to couples.

The hotel is located on Odaiba island in Tokyo Bay, with great views of downtown Tokyo. Major shopping and entertainment on Odaiba Island is within walking distance, and there's an large elevated pedestrian area, ideal for getting around the traffic. Tokyo Big Site, host to international trade shows, exhibitions, and conventions is a short train or bus ride (less than 15 minutes) away on the neighboring Ariake Island. The hotel has a shuttle bus service (for a fee) to either airport in Tokyo, around 12 to 15 minutes travel time, as well as a free bus to Tokyo Disneyland, which is about 30 minutes away by public bus.

The 884 rooms and suites have a contemporary decor with classic European influences that become more pronounced at higher tiers. Standard rooms have a beige palate with striped wallpaper and carpets with a busy swirling pattern. Luxury Rooms and Suites add rich wood furnishings, more gold accents and elegant draping fabrics. Amenities include mini-fridges, flat-screen TVs (small and dated in standard rooms), and electric tea kettles. Bathrooms have varying degrees of marble with electronic toilets and shower/tub combos; some have additional glass walk-in showers. Executive level rooms and suites on higher floors have superior views and come with extra perks -- such as free access to the health club, and a private lounge with snacks and drinks, as well as free breakfast.

Dining options abound at the Grand Nikko Tokyo Daiba with eight different restaurants within the hotel, including three specializing in different aspects of Japanese cuisine. Two cafes serve French and international fare for lunch and afternoon tea time, with a casual Italian restaurant that's open for lunch and dinner. There's also a fine-dining Cantonese restaurant and Star Road on the 30th floor starts with a western breakfast buffet (not included in room rates), turning into a cocktail bar after the dinner hour. 

The seasonal outdoor pool has a sundeck with loungers and a small kiddy pool. The huge health club has an entry fee (free for Executive Floor/club members) with an indoor lap pool, whirlpool and sauna, and a modern fitness center equipped with treadmills, ellipticals, and several weight training machines. There's also a full spa with the usual treatment rooms and an acupuncture center (with limited hours). The hotel's elegant meeting and event facilities are popular with weddings, especially with the picturesque 29th floor banquet halls and on-site chapel. A sprawling shopping mall occupies the hotel's second floor, with everything from a department store to an espresso bar.