Excel Tokyo Hotel

This classy but simple business hotel boasts a high occupancy rate thanks to its ideal location in the middle of Akasaka and its reasonable rates. Built in 1969 and undergoing a much-needed renovation in 2002, it's easily recognizable by its candy-striped exterior (it's called the "Pajama Building" by the locals). Rooms feature shoji screens and window panels that slide shut for complete darkness (even in the middle of the day), as well as windows that can be opened (a rarity in Tokyo). There are 200 single rooms, but the lower-priced ones are pretty small. There are also specialty rooms: 92 with free high-speed Internet access, 10 "Comfort Rooms" with massage chairs and specially designed pillows, and 17 "Ladies Rooms" with corridor camera surveillance and such extras as music jewelry boxes and herbal tea. Front-facing rooms look upon the whirl and neon of Akasaka; those in the back are quieter and face a steep slope of greenery.

• Banquet halls
• Beauty salon
• Conference rooms
• Business Center
• Shopping arcade
• Restaurants
• Lounge; Shopping arcade; Convenience store;
• Salon; Room service
• Same-day laundry/dry-cleaning service
• Non-smoking rooms,
• Free shuttle service to Tokyo Disneyland

• Air conditioning
• Housekeeping daily 
• Internet access - dial-up
• Refrigerator
• Television
• Smoking rooms
• Desk
• Bathroom telephone
• Hair dryer
• Wake-up calls
• Minibar
• Clock radio