Fodor's Expert Review Imperial Hotel, Tokyo

Though not as fashionable or as spanking-new as its neighbor the Peninsula, the venerable Imperial can't be beat for traditional elegance. The Imperial opened its doors in 1890, and from the outset the hotel has been justly proud of its Western-style facilities and personalized Japanese service. Located in the heart of central Tokyo, between the Imperial Palace and Ginza, the hotel has its finest rooms on the 30th floor of the tower, providing views of the palace grounds. In general, rooms—complete with walk-in closets—range from standard singles (344 square feet) to suites that are larger than many homes. Since some Tower rooms are just above the JR train lines, a room closer to Hibiya Park might be a little more pleasing. Dining options are varied and superb, including the award-winning Les Saisons, which is one of Tokyo's finest French restaurants. The Old Imperial Bar incorporates elements from the 1923 version of the hotel, which Frank Lloyd Wright designed. Don't miss the terra-cotta and brick behind the counter, a tribute to Wright's design.