Tea Is Served: Review Of Hotel 1899 Tokyo (And The On-Site Cafe Chaya)
We recently had the pleasure of staying at the boutique Hotel 1899 in Tokyo. It was truly a remarkable experience that seamlessly blends modern luxury with a rich history of Japanese tea culture.
Originally established as a ryokan (a Japanese inn) in 1899 and reinvented in 2018, the hotel pays homage to its heritage while offering guests an unforgettable stay.
CLICK HERE to book a stay at Hotel 1899 Tokyo on Hotels.com
Green Tea and Matcha Culture in Tokyo
Tokyo is a vibrant hub of green tea and matcha culture, deeply rooted in Japanese traditions that date back centuries. This city beautifully blends the historical significance of tea with contemporary practices, making it a fascinating destination for tea lovers.
Explore Tokyo food scene with local experts. BOOK the highly popular Shinjuku Izakaya Food Tour, Best of Shibuya Food Tour or Tokyo Night Foodie Tour
Green tea has been an integral part of Japanese culture since the 12th century, when it was introduced by Buddhist monks. Matcha became prominent in the traditional tea ceremony (chanoyu), symbolizing harmony, respect, purity, and tranquility.
It is worth noting that our “western” understanding of matcha as a powdered green tea is a major oversimplification. Matcha is made from shade-grown tencha leaves that are stone-ground, whereas regular green tea is made from sun-grown leaves that are either steamed or roasted.
In Tokyo, green tea is not just a beverage but an essential ingredient in various culinary delights. From matcha-flavored sweets and desserts, such as mochi and soft serve ice cream, to savory dishes, its versatility showcases the deep appreciation for this vibrant green powder. Look no further than Chaya cafe at Hotel 1899 to sample all the treats – see below!
You might also like: Vegan Tokyo: 18 Essential Restaurants You Must Try, Tokyo Station Ramen Street: A Guide To The Best Ramen Shops
Hotel 1899 Tokyo: A Unique Experience Steeped in Tea Tradition
Ambiance and Design
As soon as we walked into Hotel 1899, we were enveloped by a sense of calm and tranquility. The design beautifully incorporates traditional Japanese aesthetics, featuring natural materials like wood and stone, which create a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
The lobby and common areas are thoughtfully decorated, reflecting the hotel’s commitment to its tea legacy. Indeed, the check in area feels more like an ultra trendy coffee shop than a hotel reception. A tea/matcha ceremony is in fact included with every guest booking.
Hotel 1899 Rooms
The rooms are fairly spacious by Tokyo standards and elegantly designed, providing all the modern comforts one could desire. We loved the incorporation of matcha-green shade into the decor, which enhanced the overall Japanese tea-inspired ambiance.
We loved the green tea toiletries and thoughtful amenities such as skincare samples and linen pajamas. The standout, however, was the tea station – we expected nothing less. It included a curated selection of tea bags and beautiful custom ceramics to serve it in.
Save some time in your trip itinerary for an in-room bath tub soak in the sakura (cherry blossom) bath salt provided! The attention to detail made our stay feel special. The views of the city (from select rooms) added an extra touch of magic.
Chaya: The On-Site Matcha Café
One of the standout features of Hotel 1899 is Chaya, their on-site matcha café. This café is a celebration of Japanese tea culture, offering an array of meticulously prepared matcha drinks and desserts. The baristas are knowledgeable and passionate about their craft. Despite limited English they were able to provide insight into the history and significance of matcha in Japanese culture.
We enjoyed a traditional matcha latte, which was expertly crafted with high-quality matcha sourced from renowned tea fields. The café’s serene atmosphere, combined with the rich flavors of the tea, made for a delightful experience.
They also offer a selection of sweets that pair perfectly with the tea, showcasing the harmonious relationship between flavor and presentation. And yes, you can also try a local matcha beer!
Dedication to Tea Culture
Hotel 1899 takes its role in promoting Japanese tea culture seriously. They host workshops and events focused on the art of tea preparation and the significance of matcha in Japanese society. This dedication not only enriches the guest experience but also fosters a deeper appreciation for this vital aspect of Japanese heritage.
You might also like: Tsukiji Fish Market in Tokyo: A Food Traveler’s Guide , What Is Taiyaki: The Japanese Fish Pastry Explained
Location and Accessibility
Conveniently located, Hotel 1899 is just a short walk from public transportation (a well connected Shinbashi station). Explore the vibrant neighborhoods of Tokyo is a breeze. Indeed, the shopping district of Ginza and the Tokyo Tower are both within walking distance.
Despite being in the heart of the city, the hotel maintains a sense of tranquility. It definitely allows for a peaceful retreat after a day of sightseeing. We absolutely loved the proximity of Shiba Park which made up for the lack of gym at the hotel. Our morning jogs in the park were delightful and really helped us get a sense of local life.
Explore Tokyo food scene with local experts. BOOK the highly popular Shinjuku Izakaya Food Tour, Best of Shibuya Food Tour or Tokyo Night Foodie Tour
Hotel 1899 Tokyo: Overall Experience
Our stay at Hotel 1899 was more than just a hotel experience. It was a journey into the heart of Japanese tea culture. From the beautifully designed rooms to the exceptional offerings at Chaya, the hotel successfully combines comfort with tradition.
We left feeling enriched and inspired. We’re eager to return for another taste of their exquisite matcha and the warm hospitality of the staff. Highly recommended for anyone looking to immerse themselves in the elegance of Japanese culture.
CLICK HERE to book a stay at Hotel 1899 Tokyo on Hotels.com
Images: Gaby Aziz
Have you stayed at Hotel 1899 Tokyo? Let us know in the comments or tag @eightyflavors on socials!
OUR TRIED AND TESTED FOOD TRAVEL RESOURCES: Book a hotel with Booking.com. Search for the best flight deals on Skyscanner. Find the best local food tours on Viator. Browse curated conscious group trips with GAdventures. Get your travel insurance with World Nomads.
Disclaimer: this post contains affiliate links. We’ll receive a small commission if you purchase through the link provided, at no extra cost to you. Thank you for your support in running this blog!
