Booking
The goal was to find affordable yet somewhat luxurious nights in Tokyo over the New Year period. Tokyo is home to several IHG properties, including two InterContinental hotels, plus one more in Yokohama. For the first night I chose the InterContinental Tokyo Bay. I booked a non-refundable rate through the IHG app. Since it was only going to be one night, I picked the cheapest room — a King Guest Room.
Location
From Haneda Airport the hotel is easy to reach by car or public transport; from Narita it takes a bit longer. The connections aren’t quite optimal, as several transfers are required.
For a relaxed stay it is well-situated, with the metro and commuter rail lines a five-to-ten minute walk away depending on the line. Several shopping options are also within walking distance.
Check-In
The check-in desk has several counters, including a dedicated Ambassador counter. The staff was very helpful and friendly — as an IC Ambassador I was upgraded to a King Bay River View room, which I appreciated. The premium internet voucher was handed to me without my having to ask.
Room
The first impression of the room is quite positive. The entryway is well-lit by hotel standards. On the right is the bathroom with toilet and shower. The brightness of the bathroom is excellent for a hotel. As expected, toiletries (shower gel and shampoo) are provided.
In the generously sized room itself, alongside the bed there is a comfortable armchair, a desk chair, a side table and a work surface.
The large television is easily visible from both the bed and the sofa. As expected, there is a safe, ironing board and coffee machine. And true to InterContinental form, the promised water bottles are in the room.
The view from the room is lovely — I had good weather, which made it very pleasant.
Bar / Restaurant
Breakfast is available as a buffet in the dedicated restaurant. As the hotel was fully booked, the buffet was correspondingly busy. Both Japanese and Western dishes are on offer. In addition, there are several restaurants and bars within the hotel.
Check-Out
As an Ambassador I was automatically granted a late check-out until 4 pm. Check-out itself was once again straightforward and friendly. I was able to reach my next hotel by public transport without much hassle.
Verdict
The stay was excellent value for money — the only shame was that it was the first hotel of the trip and I was still dealing with a bit of jet lag.
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