Causing waves on the trend scene is Trunk Hotel, is a hip boutique establishment located in the centre of Tokyo’s fashion district of Shibuya. Baroque Travel finds out all about it
It may only have 15 guest rooms, but that doesn’t stop the Trunk Hotel from being the talk of the hip and trendy. One reason that it stands out from the crowd in a market full of excellent modern hotels is the fusion of Western and Japanese cuisine, creating a unique taste sensation in this traditional city, a modern take on what’s on trend globally and not just in the East. Don’t get us wrong. It certainly embraces its heritage. The Trunk Hotel prides itself in its authentic Japanese experience, but takes Tokyo’s global outlook into consideration as well.
Comprising two four-storey buildings next to each other with tiered terraces and plenty of greenery, the hotel is contemporary and stylish with a definite modern Japanese design edge. Inside you’ll find abstract works – Japanese paper washi art – plus paintings and fabric wall hangings. Products and materials are made in Japan and focus on all things local. Recycling is a strong theme – all the bicycles available for hire were abandoned bikes that have been meticulously restored, and the staff uniforms are made from recycled denim.
Guests and locals alike enjoy the spacious lounge, where coffee is served all day and free WiFi is on offer. At night, craft cocktails are on the menu and DJs up the ante. If the weather is fine, people head for the spacious outdoor terrace with its huge white cushions created from the sails of old boats. As Japan loves weddings, there’s even a sleek glass and wood chapel on the roof terrace.
The rooms are all individual, with different sizes, layouts and furniture, although the theme is a contemporary one. Some have balconies or terraces. There are 3 suites – the Living, Dining and Terrace Suites – all with double beds, some with a loft. The Terrace Suite, as its name implies, comes with a spacious terrace.
A highlight of staying at this relaxed hotel is the restaurant, Trunk Kitchen, which overlooks the terrace and offers an international contemporary menu using fresh Japanese products (Wagyu hamburgers is one example). There’s also Trunk’s Kushi, serving grilled dishes and guests in need of a snack can find popcorn, sushi, sandwiches, nigiri rice balls, Tokyo beers and wines in the convenience store. The Trunk Lounge serves cocktails and other alcoholic drinks.
The location is stunning for the young, hip and fashion-forward, as Shibuya offers numerous trendy designer fashion boutiques, museums, manga cafes, restaurants and gastro pubs, as well as art galleries, karaoke spots and shopping malls.