top of page

BLOG POSTS

"Four Seasons Hotel Tokyo at Marunouchi" is renowned for their impeccable service, convenient location and fine dining. They now offer pet-friendly hotel stays, and I had the pleasure of staying in their spacious 88-square-metre (947-square-feet) “One Bedroom Suite” with my pooch Qoo the Pomchi🐾



Staying with Your Dog at Four Seasons Marunouchi


Dogs under 7kg or cats are allowed to stay in the dedicated animal-friendly suite - as they cannot be left on their own, make sure to order room service for dinner and breakfast! The in-room dining is provided by Maison Marunouchi, a bistro-style restaurant located next to the two Michelin-starred SÉZANNE on the 7th floor of the hotel.


A Michelin-Starred In-Room Dining Experience


Not sure what to order? Their signature fried chicken by SÉZANNE's Head Chef Daniel Calvert is a must-have. Each tender and juicy piece is soaked in a sweet-and-spicy marinade for 12 hours before frying to perfection with a crispy batter coating. Their homemade muesli for breakfast, served with a kick of cinnamon, is the perfect start to the day.



Stunning Views & Relaxing Moments


The luxurious living room and the calming bathroom both overlook Tokyo Station and the Marunouchi business district, with views of high-rise office buildings and "shinkansen" bullet trains passing by every few minutes.


In the evening, the cityscape completely transforms, with metropolitan lights illuminating inside the urban architecture. Pro-tip: add two bottles of their complimentary L'Occitane shower gel before filling up your bath tub for optimum bubbles!


Engagement Surprises and Special Services


The staff were kind enough to surprise us with stunning balloon decorations to celebrate our engagement - similar services are available upon request for a supplementary fee!



Huge thanks to the team at Four Seasons Hotel Tokyo at Marunouchi for their hospitality and professionalism, who ensured the most relaxing and memorable visit for us! With or without your animal companions, you can book your stay here.



Tucked away in Maebashi, Gunma, SHIROIYA HOTEL seamlessly blends history, contemporary design, and a deep appreciation for local ingredients. Originally a 300-year-old ryokan, the space has been transformed into a striking art hotel, with world-renowned architects and artists contributing to its unique atmosphere. More than just a place to stay, SHIROIYA is an immersive experience where gastronomy plays a starring role.


A Stylish, Dog-Friendly Retreat


Among its unique rooms, “Room 18”, designed by artist Kei Takemura, stands out as a dog-friendly retreat, inspired by playing cards, featuring intricate artwork and a chic, modern aesthetic. Accommodating up to two dogs (each under 10kg), the room is thoughtfully equipped with pet-friendly amenities, including toilet sheets and a walk kit, ensuring a stylish and comfortable stay for both owners and their furry companions.



SHIROIYA the RESTAURANT: A Culinary Journey


Located within SHIROIYA HOTEL, SHIROIYA the RESTAURANT is an innovative culinary destination helmed by Chef Hiro Katayama and produced by Chef Hiroyasu Kawate of the two Michelin-starred Florilège. Emphasising sustainability and seasonality, the menu showcases Gunma’s finest produce, reimagined through a creative lens. The highlight? The Akagi Wagyu Sirloin grilled to perfection with a hint of straw smoke, this signature dish embraces the philosophy of 'sharing,' much like its counterpart at Florilège.



The Breakfast: A Celebration of Local Flavours


SHIROIYA HOTEL’s breakfast, crafted by Chef Hiro Katayama, is a celebration of local flavours. Guests can choose between a Japanese Washoku breakfast, inspired by the chef’s childhood in Gunma, and a Western Yoshoku breakfast, which reflects his French culinary training. Both options highlight the region’s produce and are available to hotel guests and visitors with prior reservation. A dog-friendly terrace ensures that even four-legged companions can enjoy the morning ambiance.


A delicious assortment of breakfast dishes awaits, with a curious pup peeking over the table in anticipation.
An impressive breakfast line-up at SHIROIYA THE LOUNGE

Art, Culture, and Gastronomy: A Complete Escape


Beyond the restaurant, SHIROIYA HOTEL itself is an architectural and artistic marvel. Designed by Sou Fujimoto, the building’s striking blend of raw concrete and lush greenery creates a visual spectacle. The rooms, each curated with unique artistic elements, provide a tranquil retreat that juxtaposes modernity with history.



For those seeking an escape where art, culture, and gastronomy intertwine, SHIROIYA HOTEL is a destination in itself. Whether indulging in an unforgettable dinner, a thoughtfully curated breakfast, or simply absorbing the artistic surroundings, a stay here is an experience that lingers long after check-out.



Feeling a little peckish in Ishigaki, Okinawa? Here are my top 5 picks for a quick snack on the tropical island (in alphabetical order). Scroll down for more info!

  1. Hau Tree, Gelato

  2. Kinjou Kamaboko, Kamaboko (Savoury)

  3. Mirumiru Honpo, Gelato

  4. Painushima, Cafe

  5. Sayoko No Mise, Doughnuts

Bonus: KABIRA FARM, Juice

 

Hau Tree

  • Each gelato here is created by mixing your choice of fruit and other ingredients sourced directly from local farmers, on a frozen granite stone!

  • Walk-in only

  • Website | Tabelog | Google Maps

 

Kinjou Kamaboko

  • This shop specialises in “Kamaboko”, a type of cured seafood product made with pureed and deboned wild white fish, eggs, salt, sugar, fish sauce and Japanese sake. Make sure to visit early before they sell out - they're open from 7AM daily (closed Sundays)!

  • Walk-in only

  • Website | Tabelog | Google Maps

 

Mirumiru Honpo

  • “Mirumiru” is a renowned gelato shop on Ishigaki island - their original store Southwest of the island has the most incredible views overlooking greenery and the ocean. “Half and Half” allows you to try two flavours at once, and I personally recommend the purple yam and brown sugar combo!

  • Walk-in only

  • Website | Instagram | Tabelog | Google Maps

 

Painushima

  • This cafe specialises in homemade juices, smoothies and ice candy prepared with locally sourced tropical fruits from the island, located just a few minutes from the observatory that looks out to the emerald green oceans and the Hirakubo Peninsula.

  • Walk-in only

  • Website | Instagram | Tabelog | Google Maps

 

Sayoko No Mise

  • This bakery on Ishigaki Island specialises in “Sata andagi”, which is a local variation of miniature fried donuts - each bite-size piece is only ¥60, so beware of buying too many! They prepare different flavours depending on the time, so I highly recommend visiting when they are freshly made.

  • Walk-in only (flavour available depends on time - see post below)

  • Tabelog | Google Maps


 

KABIRA FARM

  • This shop specialises in passion fruit along with other tropical fruits and are most renowned for their passion fruit juice, made with pure juice and granulated sugar, nothing else!

  • Walk-in only

  • Website | Instagram | Tabelog | Google Maps


 
  • Instagram
  • Facebook

© 2025 by TOKYO HALFIE

bottom of page